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IELTS Exam Eligibility 2024-2025

updated at

Updated on Nov 13, 2024, 05:35

Preparing for the IELTS exam can feel challenging, but understanding recent updates can help you plan with confidence. 

IELTS now offers flexibility in Canada’s SDS visa requirements and has introduced the IELTS One Skill Retake option, allowing you to retake a single skill if needed. 
 

These changes provide candidates with greater control over their scores, helping you focus your preparation where it matters most.

 

In this guide, we'll cover essential strategies and the latest tips for each section so you can approach your IELTS exam with confidence.

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1. Who can take IELTS? Check IELTS Exam Eligibility in 2024-2025

IELTS IDP India has not set official eligibility criteria for the IELTS exam, but experts recommend that candidates be at least 16 years old to take the test.

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2. IELTS Exam Eligibility: Passing Score for Countries

IELTS is accepted across 140 countries worldwide, including popular study destinations such as the USA, UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.

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1.

Who can take IELTS? Check IELTS Exam Eligibility in 2024-2025

IELTS IDP India has not set official eligibility criteria for the IELTS exam, but experts recommend that candidates be at least 16 years old to take the test. There is no upper age limit for the IELTS. 


Mentioned below are some of the other IELTS exam eligibility:
 
1. Age Requirements

 

  • Recommended Minimum Age: 16 years
  • Upper Age Limit: None

 

2. Academic Qualification: No specific academic qualification is necessary to take the IELTS. This makes it accessible to a broad range of individuals, including students aiming to study abroad, professionals seeking work, or those moving to English-speaking countries for various purposes.

 

3. Mandatory Passport Requirement: IELTS enforces a strict “No Passport, No Exam” policy. A valid passport is required both during registration and on the test day at the centre. Ensure your passport is current and ready as your primary identification for the IELTS.

 

IELTS Exam Eligibility for One-Skill Retake 2024-2025 

 

The newly implemented IELTS One Skill retake allows you to retake just one part of the IELTS exam. For instance, if your score is the lowest in IELTS Reading, but you’ve done well in the other sections, you can retake the IELTS reading exam and improve your score. 

 

It is mandatory to meet the following requirements to take IELTS One Skill Retake: 

 

  • You must have completed a full IELTS test taken at the test centre
  • Your full test should be computer-based
  • You must apply for the One Skill Retake within 60 days of taking the test
2.

IELTS Exam Eligibility: Passing Score for Countries

IELTS is accepted across 140 countries worldwide, including popular study destinations such as the USA, UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. 

 

The minimum IELTS exam requirements vary depending on why you’re taking the exam. If you’re applying for universities, typically, the minimum requirement falls between 6.0 for undergraduate courses and 6.5 for post-graduate courses

 

For visa and immigration, you will require a minimum band score of 4.0 to 6.0. 
 

Below is an overview. 

 

Country Minimum IELTS Score Range Minimum IELTS Score for Student Visa
USA 6.0 - 6.5 6.5 (Also depends on university)
UK 6.0 - 6.5
  • 4.0 (Below degree level)
  • 5.5 (Degree level and above)
  • Canada 5.5 - 6.5 6.0
    Ireland 6.0 - 6.5 6.5
    Australia 6.0 - 6.5 5.5
    New Zealand 5.5 - 6.5 5.5

     

    Minimum Scores & IELTS Eligibility for Top Universities 

     

    The minimum IELTS Score for universities depends on various factors, including the ones listed below.
     

    • Course level: The IELTS score may vary depending on whether your course is of degree level or below. Typically, postgraduate-level courses require higher band scores than undergraduate-level courses.
    • University: If you’re applying to top universities, you must produce an excellent IELTS score. Universities such as the Ivy League or Russell Group often ask for an IELTS score of 7 and above due to the increased competition. Mid-ranking universities, however, require scores in the range of 6.0 and 6.5.
    • Course difficulty: Advanced-level courses such as Psychology, Literature, or Medicine require higher levels of English proficiency. The reason is simple: They cover complex subjects and lead to jobs that may demand professional language skills and regular human interactions. 
       

    Below is a list of top universities worldwide and their average minimum IELTS score requirements. 

    Note: Remember that these scores will vary depending on your course, degree level and other factors. Check the official university website and confirm the specific IELTS requirement before you start your prep or file an application.
    IELTS Eligibility Score for Top Universities in the USA
    University Minimum IELTS Score
    Johns Hopkins University 7.0
    University of California, Berkeley (UCB) 7.0
    Duke University 7.0
    Brown University 7.0 - 8.0
    University of Texas at Austin 6.5 - 7.0
    IELTS Eligibility Score for Top Universities in the UK
    University Minimum IELTS Score
    Oxford University 6.0
    Cambridge University 7.5
    Imperial College London 7.0
    University of Edinburgh 6.5
    King’s College London 7.0
    IELTS Eligibility Score for Top Universities in Canada
    University Minimum IELTS Score
    University of Toronto 6.5
    McGill University 6.5
    University of Alberta 6.5
    McMaster University 6.5
    University of British Columbia 6.5
    IELTS Eligibility Score for Top Universities in Australia
    University Minimum IELTS Score
    Australian National university 6.5 - 7.0
    University of Melbourne 6.5
    University of Sydney 6.5
    University of Western Australia 7.0
    University of Queensland 6.5
    IELTS Eligibility Score for Top Universities in New Zealand
    University Minimum IELTS Score
    University of Auckland 6.5 - 7.0
    University of Otago 6.5
    Victoria University of Wellington 6.5
    University of Waikato 6.5
    University of Canterbury 6.5
    IELTS Eligibility Score for Top Universities in Ireland
    University Minimum IELTS Score
    Trinity College Dublin 6.5
    University College Dublin 6.5
    University College Cork 6.5
    National University of Ireland, Galway 6.5
    Dublin City University 6.5
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    FAQs

    Q. Who is eligible for the IELTS exam 2025?

    Ans. The IELTS exam can be taken by anyone. It is recommended that you be at least 16 years of age when you take the IELTS, but other than that, there is no mandatory requirement to take the exam. Registering for the IELTS exam is simple and can be done online via the IELTS IDP India’s website. 

    Q. Does Canada accept 5.5 bands in IELTS?

    Ans. Canada does accept 5.5 bands in IELTS, but it depends on what university and course you’re applying for. Most Canadian universities ask for a score between 6.0 and 6.5. However, there are a handful of universities in Canada that accept 5.5 band scores. Below is a list.

     

    • University of Alberta
    • Concordia University
    • Brock University
    • University of Winnipeg
    • Capilano University
    Q. Is a 7.5 IELTS score good for university?

    Ans. 7.5 in IELTS is an exceptional score and indicates that you’re a good user of English. Most universities require a score between 6.0 and 6.5, so surpassing this requirement may be advantageous for your application. With such a score, you may consider applying to top universities with good rankings, such as Harvard, Yale or Oxford. 

    Q. How do you register for the IELTS exam?

    Ans. Follow these steps to register for the IELTS exam.

     

    • Visit the official website of IELTS IDP India
    • Sign up with your details 
    • Select the type and mode of IELTS exam you wish to take
    • Select a date and test centre
    • Pay the fee 
    Q. Do I need a certain level of English proficiency to be eligible for IELTS?

    Ans. IELTS is designed to test your English language proficiency, so there is no benchmark set to take the exam in the first place. Once you write the IELTS, you will have more clarity about how good your English is and whether you can communicate effortlessly in an English-speaking nation. We do, however, suggest that you do a thorough self-analysis before you take the exam so you can estimate the level of preparation you would need.

    Q. How many times can I take the IELTS?

    Ans. You can take the IELTS as many times as you would like. There is no limit to the number of times you can take the test. However, before each test, dedicate enough time to prepare for the test to get the best score possible. If you’re consistently scoring low, it may be time for you to take a coaching session or consider alternate study materials. 

    Q. Do I need IELTS to get into Harvard?

    Ans. Harvard University is among the top universities in the world and looks at applications in multiple ways. To get into Harvard, you must showcase an exceptional portfolio with a great academic history, leadership abilities and a thriving extracurricular record. As per the official website, submitting English proficiency scores, such as IELTS scores, is not mandatory. Applicants may do so if they wish to. Typically, Harvard applicants have an IELTS score of 7.0 and above. 

    Q. What is the IELTS score validity period?

    Ans. IELTS scores are valid for two years from the date of results. Universities and organisations do not usually accept IELTS scores which are older than 2 years. The main reason behind the validity is the relevance of the exam. The IELTS exam is updated regularly to stay relevant with any recent developments. You must also check if the university/organisation you’re applying to has any specific validity requirements of their own.

    Q. What happens if I don’t pass the IELTS exam?

    Ans. There is no pass or fail in the IELTS exam. Instead, your English proficiency level is determined by your scores in each part of the test. Each individual score adds up to produce an overall IELTS score. Generally, your score should be above 5.5 to be considered for university-level education. If you're not happy with your scores, you can ask for a reevaluation, or you can retake the test. 

    Q. Is a passport required for IELTS?

    Ans. It is crucial to have a valid passport to book a slot for the IELTS exam. Remember that the passport should remain valid both during registration and on the test day. Currently, IELTS IDP India does not accept any other form of identification. Expired passports will not be accepted by the test centre.

    Q. Can I cancel my IELTS test booking?

    Ans. You can cancel the IELTS exam if you change your mind. However, you must remember that the refund depends on when you cancel the exam. If you cancel 5 weeks before the exam, you will get a full refund, minus the administrative charges; if you cancel within 5 weeks of the test, you will be charged a full fee. 

    Q. What is the IELTS exam fee in 2025?

    Ans. The IELTS exam fee in 2025 in India is likely to range from approximately ₹15,000 to ₹25,000. The IELTS academic cost is ₹17,000, depending on the test type and location. For the most accurate and updated fees, it’s advisable to check the official IELTS website or local test centres.