What level of English do I need?
University websites should give you the best idea of what level of English proficiency you'll need for your intended course, especially on course pages within entry requirements sections. If you can't find this, you can always contact them if you have specific requests or any individual questions.
Universities usually accept results from various English language test providers, which gives you many different options to take your test in your country of residence. Each test will have a different assement method, mode of delivery (in person or online), and time taken for grading. For example, a Pearson PTE Academic typically gives you your results within 2 days, so it could be a good option if you're in a hurry.
You should be able to prove you can read, write, speak, and understand English to a certain level on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) scale.
The level required depends on what you're studying:
|
Degree level or above |
Equivalent to CEFR level B2 |
|
Below degree level |
CEFR level B1 |
Here's an example of how some of the ELT providers differ:
|
CEFR level |
PTE Academic |
IELTS |
Cambridge English Qualifications |
TOEFL |
|
B2 |
59–65 |
6 |
169 |
60–76 |
|
B2 |
59–65 |
6.5 |
176 |
77–93 |
|
C1 |
76–84 |
7 |
185 |
94–103 |
|
C1 |
76–84 |
7.5 |
191 |
104–114 |
Many providers of English language tests may offer a free English level test to help you evaluate your current level, so you know what you'll need to work on.
Approved test providers
If you're in the UK, you can only take a SELT with one of the following providers:
If you're outside of the UK, you can only take a SELT with one of the following providers:
Alongside the above, some universities will also accept other methods of demonstrating your English language proficiency – such as previous courses you studied at school. Check through entry requirements thoroughly to understand whether you may not need an additional test.
If you're struggling to reach the level required for entry onto a course, many universities offer a ‘pre-sessional’ English language programme you can take during the summer before you start your course.
These courses aim to help you achieve the required grades through concentrated study in an English environment on a university campus, so by the time your course starts, you're fully prepared.
Speak to admissions teams to learn more about whether this may be a suitable option for you.