Do I need to take an English language test like IELTS or PTE for a one-year master's course in English in UAE?
It depends on your university and academic background. Most CAA accredited UAE universities want IELTS around 6.0 to 6.5 or an equivalent PTE or TOEFL score. You can often skip testing with a Medium of Instruction certificate, or if your bachelor's degree came from an English speaking country.
Whether you need IELTS or PTE for your one year English taught master's in the UAE depends heavily on your target university and your academic background. Most CAA accredited universities do request formal proof of English proficiency, but several waiver routes exist. Check your exact institution's policy before you book an expensive test.
Typical Score Requirements and Waivers
| Requirement Type | Details |
|---|---|
| IELTS Academic | Usually overall 6.0 to 6.5, with minimums per band |
| PTE Academic or TOEFL iBT | Widely accepted as direct equivalents to IELTS |
| MOI certificate waiver | Accepted by many universities if your bachelor's was fully taught in English |
Institutions That Tend to Be Stricter or More Flexible
- International branch campuses, such as University of Birmingham Dubai or Heriot-Watt, often stick to strict IELTS or TOEFL requirements.
- Private universities, such as Amity Dubai or Manipal Academy, frequently accept an MOI letter instead.
- A degree completed in an English speaking country like the UK, USA, Canada, or Australia usually grants an automatic exemption.
My Advice
Email your target university's admissions office directly and ask whether they waive IELTS or PTE for an MOI letter before you register for any test, since this single question can save you both time and exam fees.
What IELTS band do UAE universities actually need?
Know your target score, and how to hit it with free mock tests.
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