IELTS Countries List 2024: Countries Accepting IELTS Exam

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The International English Language Testing System, or IELTS, is accepted as certification of a person’s English language proficiency for immigration by several English-speaking countries. The top IELTS countries list includes the UK, the USA, New Zealand, etc. The IELTS Countries list immigration requirements and the minimum band score required for academic entrance are discussed in this article. 

Every country has a different IELTS band score requirement based on the type of visa. The IELTS exam is jointly administered by the British Council, IDP IELTS, and Cambridge Assessment English. It is accepted by 11,000 institutions in countries that recognise IELTS, including universities, corporations, governments, and immigration offices. The exam measures your proficiency in Speaking, Writing, Listening, and Reading on a scale from 1 to 9.

ielts countries list

Top Countries Accepting IELTS Score for Academic Purposes

More than 140 nations recognise IELTS test results for immigration, employment, and study purposes. Some of the major countries that accept IELTS results are:

  1. USA
  2. UK
  3. CANADA
  4. AUSTRALIA

These are the most common countries where IELTS is accepted for university applications.

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IELTS Countries List 2024: Countries Accepting IELTS Exam

The USA

One of the top nations on the IELTS countries list is the United States of America; over 3,000 organisations accept IELTS as verification of English language proficiency. In the US, there is a minimum band requirement of 6.0–7.0; however, admission to the best universities in the country requires a score of at least 7.0, while less selective universities accept scores of 6.0 or higher.

Indian students willing to pursue their studies in the United States may choose to apply for an M1 or F1 visa. If you have an F-1 Student Visa, you can study in an English-language school or at a recognised US college or institution and the M1 Student Visa permits you to study or train in the US for non-academic or vocational purposes. You must finish the online application form DS-160 in order to request a non-immigrant visafor the United States. Through the Consular Electronic Application Centre, you can fill out the DS-160 form online.

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IELTS Countries List 2024: Countries Accepting IELTS Exam

Attend Leap’s free masterclass to get tips, tricks and advance strategies to crack IELTS exam in first attempt

Top UniversitiesMinimum IELTS Score for UGMinimum IELTS Score for PG
Stanford University7.07.0
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)7.07.0
Harvard University7.57.5
Princeton University8.08.0
Columbia University7.57.0 – 7.5

Universities Accepting 6.0-6.5 IELTS Band in The USA

A minimum IELTS score of 6.5 is required by US universities. However, some universities accept applicants with low IELTS band scores—6.0 and 6.5. Below is a list of universities:

  1. Kent State University
  2. University of Michigan
  3. Prude University
  4. University of Texas, Austin

The UK

IELTS Academic and General is accepted as valid evidence of English language ability by UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration). You can take IELTS if you want to work, immigrate, or permanently relocate to the UK via the “leave to remain” or “long residence” pathways. An individual must obtain an overall IELTS score of 7 in order to be eligible for UK immigration and must score at least 6.5 in each of the test’s modules. 

The Tier 4 (General) and student visa is the most widely used type of student visa and is only offered to full-time university students in the UK pursuing a degree, not to short-term or language students. If you are applying from outside the UK, you must do so six months before the commencement of your study. You must provide proof of financial stability, implying you must have enough money to cover your course costs and living expenses, as well as confirmation of acceptance of studies from an accredited UK university and acceptable English language proficiency test scores, such as the IELTS.

Top UniversitiesMinimum IELTS Score for UGMinimum IELTS Score for PG
University of Oxford7.07.5
University of Cambridge7.07.0
Imperial College London6.56.5
University College London6.56.5
University of Edinburgh6.56.5

Universities Accepting 5.5-6.5 IELTS Band in The UK

In the UK, a number of universities accept IELTS scores ranging from 5.5 to 6.5. These universities include:

  1. Ulster University
  2. Bangor University
  3. University of Liverpool
  4. University of Sussex

Canada

To apply to graduate studies in Canada, one must have an IELTS score of at least 6.0 overall and 5.5 in each of the component tests. Postgraduate courses require a minimum score of 6.0 in each section, with a total score requirement of 6.5. The minimal requirements for the best Canadian colleges vary, but they generally require an overall score of 6.0 and a minimum of 5.5 in each area of the IELTS exam.

According to Canadian government laws, you must first get a Study Permit and a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV). It is a document that allows you study in Canada, given by the Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC). Your study permit must be accompanied by a tourist visa or Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) and a study permit is a document that allows you to study in Canada, whereas a guest visa or ETA allows you to enter in Canada.

Top UniversitiesMinimum IELTS Score for UGMinimum IELTS Score for PG
University of Toronto6.56.5
University of British Columbia6.56.5
McGill University6.06.5
McMaster University6.56.5
University of Alberta6.56.5

Universities Accepting 5.5-6.5 IELTS Band in Canada

There are several Universities in Canada that accept IELTS scores between 5.5-6.5. Some of these Universities include:

  1. Concordia University
  2. Canadore College
  3. Charles Sturt University
  4. Capilano University

Australia

The minimum IELTS score needed to register in a course in Australia varies based on the course. A minimum overall score of 6.0 is required for undergraduate courses, and a minimum overall score of 6.5 with no band lower than 6.0 is required for postgraduate courses. However, a band score of 7.0 is required for medical courses. 

The Subclass 500 visa is the most widely used type of student visa. On the Australian government’s official website, you should fill out the online application form to apply for an Australian student visa. You will be required to present proof of your enrollment at an authorised student sponsor, proof that you have the money to maintain yourself and pay for your course, and proof that you are fluent in English.

If you are applying from outside Australia, the earliest you can apply for a visa is six months before you begin your study. You can submit an application from within Australia three months before the start of your study. 

Top UniversitiesMinimum IELTS Score for UGMinimum IELTS Score for PG
University of Melbourne7.07.0
Australian National University6.57.0
University of Sydney6.56.5
University of Queensland6.56.5
Monash University6.56.5

Universities Accepting 5.5-6.5 IELTS Band in Australia

There are several Universities in Australia that accept IELTS scores between 5.5-6.5. Some of these Universities include:

  1. Australian Catholic University
  2. Victoria University
  3. Deakin University
  4. Southern Cross University
  5. Torrens University Australia

Top Countries Accepting IELTS General Training

The purpose of the international English language test known as the IELTS General Training is to evaluate a person’s English language proficiency whether they intend to study or work in an English-speaking country or relocate there. There are four sections of the test: Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening.

Many nations throughout the world accept the IELTS General for a variety of reasons, including as immigration, employment, and education. Furthermore, IELTS General is recognised in the United States, Ireland, Singapore, South Africa, and Canada in addition to the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada.

How to take IELTS in various Countries

The purpose of the IELTS exam is to evaluate non-native speakers of English who want to study, work, or immigrate to an English-speaking nation.

There are two ways to take the IELTS exam: computer-based and paper-based. More than 1600 locations across 140 countries worldwide administer the test. In many countries, you can also take the IELTS online. To take the IELTS exam in various countries, including India, you can follow these steps:


1. Visit the official IELTS website and select your country.
2. Find a test center near you and check the available test dates.
3. Register for the IELTS exam online and pay the registration fee.
4. Prepare for the exam by studying the test format and practicing sample questions.
5. On the test day, bring your identification documents and arrive at the test center on time.
6. Take the different sections of the IELTS exam, including Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
7. After completing the exam, wait for your results to be released, usually within 13 days.

Tips for Scoring well in IELTS

It takes a combination of strong English language proficiency and smart test-taking techniques to perform well on the IELTS. The following advice will help you achieve a high IELTS score:

  1. Understand the Test Format: Learn the layout of the test, including how many sections there are, the kinds of questions that are asked, and the allotted amount of time for each area.
  2. Manage your time effectively: IELTS requires excellent time management. Make sure to give each area ample time, and try to complete all the questions within the allotted time.
  3. Practice your Listening Skills: By watching English TV Shows and listening to podcasts you can practice your listening skills. Also, during the listening phase, pay close attention and take any required notes.
  4. Improve your Reading Skills: Try to read as much in English as you can. Begin with topics that interest you and gradually broaden your reading expertise by reading a variety of texts and references.
  5. Improve your Writing Skills: To improve your daily English writing, start a blog or journal. Write for free to develop your writing abilities.
  6. Improve your Speaking Skills: Practise your English pronunciation and fluency by speaking aloud. To practise speaking with a native speaker, sign up for a language exchange programme or look for a language partner online.
  7. Practise with Sample Test: To obtain a sense of the test format and possible question types, practise with sample tests.
ielts countries list

Wrapping Up

Now that you have a thorough understanding of which nations recognise IELTS scores as well as the minimum score requirements for different purposes, you’re ready to travel abroad. Reaching your IELTS goals and taking advantage of new opportunities can be accomplished with diligence and commitment. You can enlist the help of Leap Scholar experts to strengthen your preparation. They are knowledgeable in the technical aspects and can provide you with the information you need to ace the IELTS test.

For more information contact our LeapScholar, which can also aid you with the application process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. What is the purpose of IELTS?

Ans. IELTS exam assesses the test-taker prowess in English in four essential language skills – Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening. It is necessary to pursue work or profession in native English speaking countries such as the United Kingdom, the United States of America, New Zealand, Australia, Ireland, etc.

Q. What is the validity of my IELTS test result?

Ans. IELTS certificates have a validity period that starts when the results are released. After acquiring the certificate, it is only valid for two years. As soon as the test result enters its second year, the IELTS system immediately deactivates it.

Q. What can I do if I am unable to visit the test centre?

Ans. If your local test centre is not conducting IELTS tests at the moment due to pandemic-induced restrictions, you can take an online IELTS exam (IELTS Indicator) from your location at your convenience. However, it is recommended that you opt for an IELTS centre that is nearest to your location to avoid any unnecessary hassle.

Q. Are we allowed to take a watch or any electronic gadget while giving the IELTS exam?

Ans. The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) prohibits test takers from bringing any electronic devices, including watches, inside the testing facility. This is done to make sure everyone takes the test equally and that no one has an undue advantage over others. To help you keep track of time while taking the test, a clock will be supplied.

Q. Which IELTS tests can be completed in a single day?

Ans. Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking are the four categories that make up the IELTS test. The test lasts for 2 hours, 45 minutes in total. IELTS can be taken in one day and all four portions can be finished.

Q. Who is qualified to take the IELTS test for countries that require it?

Ans. There are no explicit requirements for the IELTS exam in the IELTS eligibility section. Anyone may take the IELTS IDP exam (academic and general training) if they intend to pursue further education overseas or wish to work or immigrate abroad. The IELTS exam has a 16-year-old age restriction. As one of the requirements for the IELTS exam, candidates must have a current passport.

Q. Do all countries that require IELTS have the same minimum band score requirements?

Ans. No, different countries have different minimum IELTS band score criteria. For undergraduate and graduate degrees, for instance, the minimum band score needed is 6.5 in the UK. IELTS scores of at least 7.0 are typically required by prestigious colleges and institutions in the US. Australia’s band rating is determined on the course you are enrolled in.

Q. Which country accept 5 bands in general?

Ans. IELTS minimum band requirements differ from country to country. However, IELTS Material states that several nations, including Canada, New Zealand, Ireland, and Australia, accept a minimal band score of 5.0 in IELTS General Training. The minimum IELTS band requirements differ depending on the type of visa and the location of where you intend to study or work, so keep that in mind.

Q. Which IELTS is best for immigration?

Ans. The IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training examinations are also offered. Your test decision should be based on what you hope to accomplish. Typically, the academic test is required for admission to universities. For reasons of migration, General training is utilised.

Q. How much band required for France?

Ans. The maximum band that can be attained is a 9, and lower bands denote a less advanced level of English proficiency. The IELTS requirements for studying in France are listed below. The typical IELTS score needed to study in France is 6.5.

Q. Is IELTS easy for Indians?

Ans. IELTS has gained significant traction in the immigration market in recent years. In addition to the hype, everyone wants to know if IELTS is simple for students in India. The obvious response is “yes.” However, it is entirely up to the individual student. If they are well-prepared, taking the IELTS exam won’t be a huge hassle for them.

Q. Which part of IELTS is difficult?

Ans. Since the writing section of the IELTS exam is the most difficult, Leapscholar guarantees to offer the best IELTS practise platform for the next exam. Moreover, several of our specialists offered writing advice on how to structure your paper, comprehend the assignment clearly, check your response, and concentrate on the English language.


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Rajgeetha is an expert in SAT, GRE, GMAT and IELTS prep content. She is an academic strategist with experience in study abroad test prep and ed-tech industry spanning pedagogy design, customised training design, team building, training & development.

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