Do I need to continue with IELTS preparation and tests for my application in UK for a Bachelor's?
It depends on your background. Many UK universities waive IELTS if you scored 70 to 80 percent or higher in Class 12 English, or if your school confirms English as the sole medium of instruction, though Russell Group universities and competitive courses usually still require a formal test.
Whether you need to continue your IELTS preparation depends on your school board results and your target universities, since UK institutions do not apply one uniform rule. Several clear waiver paths exist, but competitive courses and top universities still hold firm on requiring a formal test score.
When You Can Skip It vs When You Cannot
| Situation | IELTS Likely Needed? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| High Class 12 English score | Often waived | Usually 70 to 80 percent or higher, depending on your board |
| Medium of Instruction certificate | Sometimes accepted instead | Confirms your secondary education was fully in English |
| Russell Group or competitive courses | Yes, required | Medicine, Law, and Literature rarely offer waivers |
| Alternative English tests | Sometimes accepted | TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, or LanguageCert may substitute |
Your Next Steps
- Check the specific undergraduate entry requirements page for each university you are targeting.
- Email the admissions office directly and ask whether they accept a Medium of Instruction certificate or your Class 12 English score in place of IELTS.
- Remember that UK Visas and Immigration standards may still apply even if a university grants an internal waiver.
My Advice
Do not drop your IELTS preparation until you get a written waiver confirmation in your inbox, since a verbal assumption about your Class 12 marks being enough can leave you scrambling for a test slot close to your deadline.
Can you skip IELTS with your MOI or 12th English marks?
Check your waiver options free with a UK admissions expert.
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