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Are IELTS scores compulsory if she has already given TOEFL in UK?

31 Aug 2026 · Answered by Smitha Satish S · 2 min read
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Generally no, IELTS is not compulsory if she already took the TOEFL iBT, as long as her score meets the specific institution's requirement. Most UK universities accept TOEFL iBT as an alternative, though a few programs, such as certain clinical healthcare courses, may prefer a specific test instead.

Smitha Satish S
Smitha Satish S Verified
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You do not automatically need IELTS if she has already sat the TOEFL iBT, since most UK universities treat it as an accepted alternative for proving English proficiency. Her exact course and university still decide the final answer, so you should check the specific entry requirements directly. Her TOEFL score type and validity period also matter here.

What Determines Whether IELTS Is Needed

FactorWhy It Matters
University policyMost UK universities accept TOEFL iBT as an IELTS alternative
Program typeSome courses, like certain clinical healthcare programs, may prefer a specific test
Score validityTOEFL scores are typically valid for 2 years from the test date
Visa routeUK Student Route visas may require a SELT designated test for some courses

What to Verify Before Assuming

You should check whether her TOEFL score meets the specific institution's minimum requirement, since a passing score at one university may fall short at another. It also helps to know whether she holds a Medium of Instruction certificate or a prior degree from an English medium institution, as this can further strengthen her application. For UK Student Route visa purposes, verify whether her course level requires a SELT designated test rather than a standard TOEFL iBT score.

My Advice

I would suggest you share the exact university and course she is targeting with your counsellor so the current TOEFL policy for that specific program can be confirmed. Also double check that her TOEFL score is still within its valid window before the course start date.

More expert answers

Chaithrakala P L
Chaithrakala P L Verified
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It depends. If you already have a valid English proficiency test score from exams like TOEFL, PTE Academic, or Duolingo English Test, most UK universities will accept these as alternatives to IELTS.

- Test acceptance and required scores vary by university and program. - If your score meets the university’s criteria, you usually do not need to take IELTS again.

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