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How can I apply for an English language certificate waiver for UK master's applications, given my bachelor's and master's degrees were taught in English and completed recently?

24 Sept 2026 · Answered by Muskan Vashishtha · 2 min read
Quick Answer verified

Yes, you can request an English test waiver by asking your university for a Medium of Instruction letter confirming your degree was taught and assessed entirely in English. Submit this with your degree certificate and transcript, since UK universities often waive IELTS for degrees completed within the last 5 years.

Muskan Vashishtha
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Yes, since both your degrees were taught in English and completed recently, you have a strong basis to request an English language test waiver instead of sitting IELTS or TOEFL again. The waiver depends on your specific UK university's admissions policy, so check their exact rules before assuming it applies automatically.

Steps to apply for the waiver

StepWhat to do
1. Check university policySearch the UK university's admissions page for Medium of Instruction, English waiver, or Indian applicant exemption terms
2. Request an MOI letterAsk your Indian university for an official letter confirming your programme was taught and assessed in English
3. Submit supporting documentsUpload your degree certificate, transcript, and MOI letter alongside your application
4. Get written confirmationEmail admissions to confirm your documents satisfy the English requirement before you rely on the waiver

What your MOI letter should confirm

  • Full English instruction: the entire programme, including assessments and examinations, was conducted in English.
  • Programme and dates: your exact programme name, study dates, and your name and registration number.
  • Official issuance: ideally signed or stamped by the awarding university itself, not an affiliated college, since some UK universities require this specifically.

My Advice

Remember that a university admissions waiver and your UK Student visa English requirement are 2 separate checks. For the visa, if your university is a qualifying higher-education provider it can assess your English itself on your CAS, but if not, you may still need an Ecctis assessment confirming your Indian degree is equivalent to the required UK level and was taught in English, so ask your university which route applies to you.

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