Can I apply for GRE first and then for IELTS in UK for a Master's?
Yes, absolutely. You can take the GRE first and then the IELTS depending on your timeline and preparation strategy, as there is no rule stating you must take them in a specific order. The GRE tests general academic aptitude while the IELTS proves language proficiency. Because IELTS scores expire much.
You can definitely complete your admissions exams in whichever sequence fits your personal preparation timeline best. There is no official institutional rule requiring you to take the GRE before the IELTS or vice versa for your UK Master applications in 2026.
Test Comparison Overview
| Test Type | Score Validity | Primary Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| GRE | 5 years | General academic and analytical aptitude |
| IELTS | 2 years | English language proficiency |
| Prior Education | Not applicable | Determines if English test is mandatory |
Strategic Application Factors
- Most UK universities do not require the GRE for Master programs.
- The GRE is typically only necessary for competitive MBA or specific quantitative STEM courses.
- IELTS or an equivalent test remains mandatory if your prior education was not in English.
My Advice
Consider taking the GRE well in advance since its score lasts for five years. Schedule your IELTS closer to the opening of the university application window so your English proficiency results stay fresh.
IELTS, PTE or Duolingo: which does the UK accept?
Find out which test your universities accept, and which is easiest for you.
More IELTS questions
- Will I be able to pass the English proficiency exam given my concerns about language skills?
- What are the chances of getting a conditional offer letter requiring IELTS even if I have a good 12th standard score?
- Can I study in the UK without IELTS, and which universities accept other English tests?
- Would you suggest me to give IELTS first before starting the application process in Germany/Italy for a Master's?
- Do I need to score well in GRE, GMAT, or IELTS to get good scholarships in top business schools for a MBA?
- Is it possible to get an IELTS exemption if my transcript states that my medium of instruction was English?
- Will you help with the IELTS application process and provide guidance on the required documents and deposits?
- Do I need an IELTS scorecard for the APS certificate required for Germany university applications?
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- What is the fee range for a one-year MBA course compared to a two-year course in UK?
- Can I call my husband on a dependent visa after I go on a student visa for my masters abroad in UK/Ireland?
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