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Can I get a waiver for IELTS based on my 12th standard English marks in UAE?

27 Jul 2026 · Answered by Arati Rai · 1 min read
Arati Rai
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It depends. Some UAE universities may waive the IELTS requirement if you have strong 12th standard English marks, typically 80% or higher from recognized boards like CBSE or ICSE. However, this policy varies by institution.

- Some universities accept 12th English marks for an IELTS waiver.
- Others still require an IELTS score, regardless of your marks.

With your 75% in 12th and strong academic profile, you may be considered for a waiver, but this is not guaranteed.

To understand your options, discuss your case with your LeapScholar counsellor for university-specific guidance.

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Neelam B
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It depends. Many UAE universities may offer an IELTS waiver for master's applicants with strong 12th grade English scores. With your 88.4% in English (12th grade) and 94% in your undergraduate degree, you are likely eligible for an IELTS waiver at several institutions.

- Some universities accept high 12th grade English marks (like 80% or above) instead of IELTS.
- Policies vary by university and program, and requirements are subject to change.

To confirm your eligibility and next steps, please consult your LeapScholar counsellor for university-specific guidance.

Muskan Vashishtha
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It depends. Most UAE universities require proof of English proficiency, usually through IELTS or similar tests. However, some institutions may waive this if you studied in English or have significant work experience.

- Indian-affiliated universities in Dubai (like BITS Pilani Dubai, Amity, Manipal) often accept a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter if your previous education was in English.
- Some universities may also consider your work experience (typically 3+ years in a relevant field) for special consideration or alternative assessments.

Given your Computer Science background and 14 years of work experience, you may qualify for a waiver at several institutions.

To confirm your options, contact your LeapScholar counsellor, who can guide you based on your target universities and current policies (subject to change).

Mohit Tanna
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Yes, you may be eligible for an IELTS waiver if you scored well in English in your diploma or 12th-grade exams, especially with 70% or above from recognized Indian boards like CBSE or CISCE.

Many UAE universities accept strong English marks from previous studies as proof of proficiency and may waive the IELTS requirement. However, waiver policies differ by university and program, and some visa processes may still require an approved English test even if the university grants a waiver.

Kavya M P
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Yes, many universities in the UK, Netherlands, and UAE may offer an IELTS waiver if you scored 70% or above in English in your 12th grade from recognized boards like CBSE or ISC.

- UK: Several universities accept strong 12th-grade English marks (typically 70 - 80%+) as proof of English proficiency, sometimes with a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter.
- Netherlands: Some Dutch universities consider 80%+ in CBSE English sufficient, but policies vary by institution and program.
- UAE: Certain institutions may accept high school English qualifications for specific programs, sometimes in place of IELTS.

Requirements and waiver policies are university- and program-specific and are subject to change. Some countries may still require a separate language test for visa purposes.

Abhishek Mehta
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Yes, many UAE universities offer IELTS waivers if you have a strong English score in your 12th grade or can provide a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate showing your previous education was in English.

However, the exact requirements and acceptance of MOI or 12th English marks vary by university and program. Some institutions may still require an English proficiency test, while others may exempt recent graduates or those meeting specific criteria.

Policies are subject to change and differ by institution.

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