IELTS Score for UK 2023: Minimum Score for Universities & Visa

IELTS score for UK depends on the university and your desired course. Typically, universities in the UK ask for a minimum score of 6.0-6.5, but top universities may require a much higher IELTS score of 7 and above. Some universities also accept an IELTS score of 5.5. 

The IELTS minimum score depends on various factors. For example, if you’re interested in studying a course in healthcare, universities will expect you to have an IELTS score of 6.5 and above. 

The reason is simple. Healthcare courses have advanced information, plus all healthcare jobs require you to communicate fluently with the patient. The same applies to Journalism, Psychology, and Law. Since the jobs in these fields require a lot of human interaction, having good English proficiency is a must! 

If you score above 6.5-7, you can get into top-ranking universities in the UK with various choices for competitive courses. 

If you score between 6.0-6.5, you can get into excellent universities that rank in the range of 80-150.

If your score is between 5.5-6.0, you have fewer course options, but you can still find a good university that works for you.

A score lower than 5.5 has limited course and university options. You can retake the IELTS test and aim for a better score or find universities that do not require the IELTS exam. 

However, since your score is low, these universities might have additional requirements, such as your marks from 12th grade, additional certificates, or interviews.

IELTS Score	Availability of Universities based on Global Rankings
7.0+	Universities ranking within the top 50-100
6.5+	Universities ranking within the top 80-200
6.0+	Universities ranking within the top 150-300
5.5+	A limited number of universities, ranking between 300-500

Consider this blog your go-to guide for everything you should know about IELTS score for UK! Let’s start. 

IELTS score for UK Universities

IELTS minimum score varies depending on the university. On average, you need a band score of 6.0 for a bachelor’s and 6.5 for a master’s. 

Degree	Minimum IELTS Score	Minimum IELTS score per section
Bachelor’s	6.0	5.5 each section
Master’s	6.5	6.0 each section

Following is a list of universities accepting bands 6.0 and 5.5.

IELTS Score for UK: IELTS 6.0 Universities

• University of Birmingham
• University of Leeds
• University of Manchester
• University of Sheffield
• University of Nottingham

IELTS Score for UK: IELTS 5.5 Universities

• University of East Anglia
• Swansea University
• Newcastle University
• Staffordshire University
• University of Gloucestershire

For a full list of universities along with IELTS score requirements, book a free call with our experts! 

Did not get your ideal IELTS score for UK? Here’s what you can do!

Firstly, don’t be discouraged! IELTS is a challenging exam; we’re sure you tried your best. 

Your advantage in this situation is knowing exactly where you lack. The best way to go forward is to make amends to your study plan and focus especially on the areas you lack. 

Here are a few things you can do: 

Retaking the exam: If you haven’t scored your ideal band score, we highly recommend preparing for it again and retaking the exam. IELTS is set to release IELTS one-skill retake, which lets you re-test for just one exam section. So, you’re in good luck! 

Look at alternate universities: The UK has plenty of universities that accept a score range of 5.5-7+. Don’t be discouraged because you don’t meet the requirements of one particular university. You can always look for other universities that accept your score.

If you need more help shortlisting universities according to your IELTS score, Chat with our experts. 

How to get a good IELTS score for UK? 

If you’re starting your IELTS preparation for the UK, we suggest thoroughly researching your course and university requirements. Following are some tips to help you with your IELTS journey. 

• If you’re a beginner, you should start by analysing your English language proficiency. Based on your proficiency level, make a study plan. 
• If you’re unsure, get a profile evaluation from experts. 
• Familiarize yourself with the IELTS format. Ensure you give enough time for each of the IELTS sections. Pay extra attention to IELTS writing, as most students find it challenging. 
• Practice all sections with a timer, as the IELTS exam is highly time-sensitive.
• Ensure that your resources are up-to-date. 
• Take mock tests throughout your preparation journey. 

Study abroad applicants for the UK are multiplying by the day, and a high score in IELTS can help you stand out! LeapScholar’s IELTS courses can help you score 7+ in your IELTS exam! Get access to mock tests, live and recorded classes, profile evaluations, and the best study materials!

IELTS Score for UK Visas

UK visa and immigration department accepts IELTS Academic, IELTS General tests, and IELTS life skills. IELTS Academic is the best option if you apply for a student visa.

The IELTS score for UK depends on the type of visa you are applying for. Generally, the UK has a requirement of 6.0 and above, with a minimum of 5.5 in each section. 

Here’s an overview of the IELTS score for UK visas.

Type of Visa	IELTS minimum score
Student visa: below degree level and pre-sessional courses	IELTS for UKVI – 4.0 overall, and in each of the four skills
Student visa: degree level and above	IELTS/IELTS for UKVI3 – 5.5 overall, and each of the four skills

How to study in the UK without IELTS?

Is it possible to study in UK universities without IELTS? Yes, it is. But it also depends on the university and course you choose. However, we highly recommend writing the IELTS exam as it can help you in your career and secure other visas.

TOEFL, PTE, and Duolingo Tests are a few alternate English proficiency tests that the UK accepts. Some colleges and universities allow you to skip English proficiency tests entirely. They may, however, request proof that you have completed your former education in English. 

Being confused about whether or not to write IELTS is completely normal at this stage. Talk to our experts and find out what’s the right choice for your profile.

Overall, IELTS scores can be game-changing for your application. IELTS scores can be used for admissions, part-time and full-time jobs, visas, and to get permanent residence. IELTS scores can also help you cut costs because most scholarships require IELTS.

We highly recommend writing the IELTS exam and aiming for a score above 7. Talk to our experts and learn how you can make your journey to the UK easier.

Good luck!

Frequently Asked Questions