IELTS – Commonly Asked Questions

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is the world’s most popular English language proficiency test for higher education and global migration. It is a pre-requisite for obtaining a Tier 4 visa, and a good IELTS grade is usually required by universities when applying for undergraduate courses in the UK.

Here, we answer your most commonly asked questions, hopefully making what is quite a confusing process, a lot simpler for you!

Which type of IELTS should I take?

There are two types of IELTS; IELTS (Academic) UKVI, and IELTS (Academic). The main difference is that you will need IELTS (Academic) UKVI if you are applying for a visa to study in the UK. There are some exceptions, and UK universities will accept IELTS (Academic), but you don’t want to take any chances. After all, no visa = no study!

What score do I need in my IELTS results?

The results you need will depend on the university and course you wish to attend, as entry requirements vary. You can check this by searching for your chosen universities here. However, as a general rule, UK universities ask for IELTS of between 5.5 and 7.0. The majority of Engineering courses require 6.0, and Business courses 6.5. For courses such as English Literature, where a high proficiency in English is needed, 7.0 is often asked for. In addition to this, the majority of IELTS will also have a minimum individual scoring level, for example, a university may be looking for an overall average of 6.5, but with no individual score lower than 5.0.

Where can I take the IELTS?

UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration) have a certain number of approved English language test centres that meet Home Office requirements. If you are intending on using your IELTS in your UK immigration application, you must ensure that you take your tests in one of these centres. Details of approved test centres can be found here.

How do I register for IELTS?

We recommend registering through British Council, who will take you step by step through the registration process, and have a number of UKVI approved test centres around the world. They will also make it clear whether you are applying for IELTS (Academic) UKVI or not.

Click here to apply through British Council.

What will the IELTS consist of?

Below is a handy chart detailing the components of the IELTS exams, so you can know what to expect in advance.

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With the UKVI approved IELTS, you can also take a pre-sessional course. These last for between 3 and 20 weeks and focus on improving your academic English. They cover areas such as academic writing, note-taking, and presentation skills. Find out more about IELTS pre-sessional courses here.

For information and tips on taking IELTS, please visit the below link:

IELTS practice papers

If you have any further questions or queries, please contact us on international@ukec.com, or speak to your UKEC education consultant directly.

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