The requirement for the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) for the UK depends on your purpose of travel.
For Study
- Yes, IELTS is generally required for international students who want to study in the UK.
- Each university sets its own minimum IELTS score requirements.
- You can find the IELTS requirements for specific universities on their websites.
- Example: The University of Oxford generally requires a minimum IELTS score of 7.0 overall, with no band score lower than 6.5.
For Work
- Yes, IELTS is often required for work visas in the UK.
- The specific IELTS requirement depends on the type of work visa you are applying for.
- For skilled worker visas, you may need to achieve a minimum IELTS score of 4.0 in each skill.
- Example: The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) requires a minimum IELTS score of 4.0 for the Skilled Worker visa.
For Visit
- No, IELTS is not generally required for a tourist visa or short-term visit to the UK.
For Permanent Residence
- Yes, IELTS is required for some permanent residence applications in the UK.
- The specific IELTS requirement depends on the application route.
- For the Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) application, you may need to achieve a minimum IELTS score of 4.0 in each skill.
Exceptions
- Some UK universities and employers may accept alternative English language proficiency tests, such as the TOEFL or Cambridge English exams.
- You may be exempt from the IELTS requirement if you are a native English speaker or have completed your education in English.
