Universities want to check your language and academic skills
Different universities and courses ask for different test scores
Check the entry requirements with the university
Alternatives to a formal English test
In some cases, qualifications you may have studied at school can be used to evidence your English language ability, if the university accepts the course as meeting the requirement and if the grade is high enough.
Make sure you check directly what the university will accept, as the minimum required grade will vary.
Residents of some countries are exempt from taking an English language test for visa purposes, but you may still need this to prove your suitability for a course. It’s always best to confirm with the university. Find out more here.
Which English test should I take?
Universities will state which English language tests they accept, the minimum overall grade they expect, and the specific grades they require in the four tested components: writing, speaking, listening, and reading (this might vary between courses).
These are the most commonly required English tests – which are accepted and respected by most countries and course providers around the world, including UK immigration.
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
- PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English)
- PSI Services (UK) Ltd – Skills for English (UKVI)
- LangCert
How can I prepare for the English language test?
Most English language tests have information on how they're structured on their websites.
Know what to expect in the test and how it's marked
This'll make you feel more confident, and you’ll know how to prepare for it. When you're doing mock test papers, try to do them within the time limits of the actual exam.
You can easily find sample test materials online
These will help you prepare for the test and give you an idea of what to expect in the listening, reading, speaking, and writing tests.
What should I do apart from studying to improve my English?
Doing well in an English language test will take more than just reading the textbooks and trying to memorise the answers. Yes, these are important, but there are other more fun things you can do to help improve your English.
Watch TV and films in English
This is especially useful to the listening parts of the test, where you'll need to be familiar with a range of accents. Watch with the subtitles in English to help with all areas.
Practise reading English newspapers and websites
To be comfortable reading through long articles for the reading section of the test, read about topics you have an interest in to help strengthen your skills.
Should I take a preparation course?
If you're worried you won’t meet the entry requirements, there are IELTS centres and language schools around the world that offer preparation courses. You don’t have to attend one, but many students find it helpful.
Spend time with native English speakers
If you can, there's no better way to help with test preparation. There are services where you can chat online with a native speaker and practise your skills before the test. If this isn’t possible, try English YouTubers, podcasters, and TV programmes to surround yourself with native speakers.