You can study in the UK without IELTS by taking alternative English proficiency tests, such as PTE, Duolingo, OIETC, or TOEFL. You can also use your Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate from your university or previous English language program.
However, some UK universities also conduct their own English language proficiency tests, called the Internal English Language Test. Another option is to study in the UK with a pre-sessional English language program that should be finished before starting your main program.
In this guidance, we will discuss how to study in the UK without IELTS, what the best alternatives to the IELTS test are, which UK universities accept international students without IELTS, and the impacts of not having a good IELTS score for a UK student visa.
What is IELTS?
The full form of IELTS is International English Language Testing System. IELTS is a globally recognized English proficiency test taken by non-English speakers. This particular test is jointly owned by the British Council, IDP IELTS, and Cambridge University Press & Assessment. The IELTS score evaluates one’s English proficiency level across 4 skills—reading, writing, speaking and listening.
Is it Possible to study in the UK without IELTS?
Yes, it is possible to study in the UK without IELTS by providing alternative English proficiency tests, such as the Pearson Test of English (PTE), Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), and Oxford International English Test Centre (OIETC). Always remember the minimum English proficiency requirement for a UK student visa is B2 level, and IELTS is one of the mediums to prove that proficiency.
However, if you don’t want to take any kind of English test, you can study in the UK with MOI too. MOI is a certificate that you can collect from your university if your previous program was in English. Many UK universities, such as the University of South Wales, Birmingham City University, Wrexham University, University of Wales Trinity Saint David, etc., accept MOI as proof of English proficiency.
What are the best alternatives to IELTS for studying in the UK?
The best alternatives to IELTS for studying in the UK include OETC, PTE, Duolingo and TOEFL. Let’s explore the best alternatives to IELTS as an English proficiency test.
Pearson Test of English (PTE)
The Pearson Test of English (PTE) is a computer-based English proficiency test. PTE is taken by non-native speakers and primarily used for studying abroad, immigration, and work visas. It assesses speaking, writing, reading, and listening skills through integrated tasks. The PTE scoring system is powered by AI to ensure its consistency. PTE Academic is the most common version that is used by thousands of universities and organizations worldwide.
Popular Universities in the UK Accepting PTE
Most of the UK universities accept the PTE score for international students’ admission. The minimum PTE score requirement for studying in the UK is an overall 59. However, some universities may require a higher score than that. Let’s explore the PTE-accepted universities in the UK.
- Swansea University
- Solent University
- University of Stirling
- University of Chester
- Bangor University
- University College Birmingham
- Coventry University
- De Montfort University
- University of Hertfordshire
- University of Strathclyde
Oxford International English Test Centre (OIETC)
The Oxford International English Test Centre (OIETC) was developed by Oxford International Digital Institute. The minimum requirements for OIETC in the UK are B2 level. OIETC is a combination of 40 minutes of reading, 20 minutes of listening, 60 minutes of writing and 15 minutes of a speaking test.
OIETC Accepted Universities in the UK
OIETC is accepted by several UK universities as a popular alternative to the IELTS test. Though the scoring system of OIETC is quite similar to IELTS, this test is popular for its easy assessment process. Let’s explore some OIETC accepted universities in the UK.
- Aston University
- BPP University
- Canterbury Christ Church University
- Coventry University
- De Montfort University
- Edinburgh Napier University
- Glasgow Caledonian University
- London South Bank University
- London Metropolitan University
- Ravensbourne University London
- Robert Gordon University
- University College Birmingham
Duolingo English Test (DET)
The “Duolingo exam” is an online assessment of English proficiency for reading, writing, listening, and speaking. It is a convenient and affordable alternative to other English proficiency exams, used by students for university admissions. The test is taken at home on a computer, and results are typically published within two days. The minimum Duolingo for the UK is a minimum of 120 and not less than 115.
Duolingo Accepted Universities in the UK
Many universities accept Duolingo as an alternative option to studying in the UK without IELTS. Let’s explore the Duolingo-accepted universities in the UK.
- Royal Holloway, University of London
- Coventry University
- University of Hertfordshire
- Ulster University
- Northumbria University
- Bangor University
- Solent University
- University of Strathclyde
- University College Birmingham
- University for the Creative Arts
- University of Greenwich, London & Kent
- University of Derby
- De Montfort University
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is a standardised English exam that measures the English-language proficiency of non-native speakers for academic purposes. It assesses reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills in an academic context. TOEFL is widely accepted by universities and institutions worldwide, particularly in English-speaking countries.
TOEFL Accepted Universities in the UK
All 100% of universities in the UK accept TOEFL, including top-ranked institutions like the University of Cambridge, Oxford, and Imperial College London. Let’s explore some TOEFL-accepted affordable universities in the UK.
- Ulster University
- Glasgow Caledonian University
- The Robert Gordon University
- University of South Wales
- University of Wales Trinity Saint David
- Staffordshire University
- University for the Creative Arts
- Heriot-Watt University
- University of Northumbria at Newcastle
MOI Accepted Universities In the UK
MOI is not a test; it’s a certificate that you need to collect from your university if the medium of your previous qualification was in English. You can apply with MOI only for Master’s. To be accepted, your MOI should be valid for not more than 5 years. Let’s explore the MOI-accepted universities in the UK.
- University of South Wales
- University for the Creative Arts
- Birmingham City University
- University of Wales Trinity Saint David
- University of Hull, London
- University of Hertfordshire
- Bangor University
- University of Suffolk
- Aston University
- Abertay University
- Bangor University
- Cardiff Metropolitan University
- University of Wolverhampton
What is the University’s Internal English Test?
An internal English test is an interview or an English proficiency test exam that is taken by the university. This test is suitable for those who want to study in the UK without IELTS or who have a very low score in IELTS or other English tests. Usually, the UK university’s internal test is free; however, some universities may charge a minimum fee for this test. Let’s explore some popular universities that offer an internal English test in the UK.
- University College Birmingham
- University of Law
- Ulster University
- Northumbria University
- UWE Bristol
- Solent University
- Birmingham City University
- Bangor University
What is a pre-sessional English Course in the UK?
A pre-sessional English course in the UK is an intensive English language and academic program for international students who need to improve their English before starting a degree. Usually, if a student doesn’t have any English language qualification, he/she can take the pre-sessional English program in the UK with some extra charges. The duration of this course depends on your English level. Let’s explore some universities that offer pre-sessional English courses in the UK.
- University of Bedfordshire
- University of Hull
- Coventry University
- University of Greenwich
- Birmingham City University
- University of Hertfordshire
- University of East London
- University of South Wales
Impacts of Not Having a Good IELTS Score for a UK Student Visa
Since securing proof of English proficiency is mandatory for the application, not having an appropriate IELTS score can lead to a UK student visa rejection. This can prevent you from studying at your preferred university or preferred program. However, you can enter the UK with alternative tests or different pathways, but it is always better to have the IELTS, as it opens doors to many opportunities in the UK.
So, are you looking for opportunities to study in the UK without IELTS? Well, now it’s possible to get a UK student visa without mandatorily requiring IELTS. Many UK universities now offer different alternatives to the IELTS program to make it accessible for students with different preferences.
However, struggling to find the best alternative? Book a free appointment with AIMS Education now to choose the best option for you.
FAQ
Can I go to the UK without IELTS for study?
Ans: Yes, you can study in the UK without IELTS, but if you are applying from a non-English-speaking country, you have to prove your English proficiency with other English tests.
Which is the cheapest university in the UK without IELTS?
Ans: University College Birmingham, Ulster University, Northumbria University, UWE Bristol, etc., are some of the cheapest universities in the UK without IELTS.
Which country is best without IELTS?
Ans: Studying in the UK without IELTS is always the best option because the UK accepts almost every English language test, and the universities in the UK offer different pathways like internal English test, Pre-sessional English courses, etc.
Which university gives admission without IELTS?
Ans: University of South Wales, the University for the Creative Arts, Birmingham City University, University of Wales Trinity Saint David, etc. accept MOI, so you can apply to those universities without IELTS.
