IELTS for working in the UK – Who needs it and what score is required

Date of the last update: 22.05.2025

Emigrating to the United Kingdom for educational or professional purposes often involves proving your English language proficiency. One of the most commonly required language exams is IELTS (International English Language Testing System). However, not every version of this test is suitable for every situation – that’s why it’s important to understand the difference between the standard IELTS and IELTS for UKVI, and to know who needs to take which version and in what circumstances.

Table of contents:

1. Working in the UK – who needs IELTS for UKVI?
2. Who can take the standard IELTS Test instead?
3. IELTS score requirements for working in the UK
4. Summary

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Working in the UK – who needs IELTS for UKVI?

IELTS for UKVI (Academic or General Training) is a special version of the test approved by the UK Home Office as a Secure English Language Test (SELT). It is required for:

• Individuals applying for a work visa (e.g. Skilled Worker Visa),
• Individuals seeking settlement in the UK (indefinite leave to remain),
• Applicants for student visas for courses below undergraduate level.

Who can take the standard IELTS Test instead?

The standard IELTS Academic or General Training may be accepted in the following situations:

Registration with a regulated profession (e.g. doctors, nurses);

• The General Medical Council (GMC) and Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) accept the standard IELTS Academic.
• University-level studies (undergraduate degree or higher).

Tip

Before registering for the test, always check the requirements of the specific university, employer, or immigration office. This will help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure that the version of the test you choose will be accepted in your situation.

IELTS score requirements for working in the UK

Depending on your purpose, the IELTS score requirements may vary. Here are the most common thresholds:

Work visa (Skilled Worker Visa)

A minimum level of B1 on the CEFR scale, which corresponds to approximately 4.0–5.0 in each section of IELTS for UKVI – General Training.

University studies in the UK

Typically, an overall IELTS Academic score of 6.0–7.5, depending on the course and university.

Doctor registration (GMC)

The standard IELTS Academic is required, with an overall score of at least 7.5, and a minimum of 7.0 in each section.

Nurse registration (NMC)

The standard IELTS Academic is required: minimum 7.0 in Listening, Reading, and Speaking, and at least 6.5 in Writing.

Summary

If you are planning to work or emigrate to the UK and need to apply for a visa, IELTS for UKVI (Academic or General Training) is required, as it is the only version recognized by the UK Home Office as a SELT.

If you are planning to pursue higher education or professional registration, the standard IELTS Academic is sufficient, as long as the university or professional body does not explicitly require the UKVI version.

Always check the specific requirements of the institution or organization before booking your test – this will help you avoid unnecessary expenses and complications.