What IELTS score should I aim for to study abroad?
No single IELTS score is good for every university or country, but an overall 7.0 or above is generally considered a good score for study abroad. Requirements vary by university and programme, so check each admission page and visa rule.
There is no single IELTS score that counts as good everywhere. The score you need depends on the country, the university and the programme, although an overall 7.0 or above is generally considered good for study abroad.
What Each Overall Band Usually Means
| IELTS overall band | What it means | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|
| 8.0 to 9.0 | Excellent English proficiency | Top universities, competitive programmes, professional registration |
| 7.0 to 7.5 | Good English proficiency | Most universities in the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Ireland and Europe |
| 6.5 | Competent English proficiency | Most undergraduate and postgraduate programmes |
| 6.0 | Acceptable for selected universities | Foundation, diploma and some degree programmes |
| Below 6.0 | Limited university options | May require pathway or English preparation programmes |
What to Check Before You Apply
- The minimum IELTS score for your preferred country.
- The admission requirements of your chosen university and programme.
- The student visa rules for your destination.
My Advice
If you are aiming for a good university, try to reach at least 7.0 overall, since a large number of universities across countries accept it. Still, verify the exact requirement on each official university page before you plan your target.
What IELTS band do universities actually need?
Know your target score, and how to hit it with free mock tests.
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?
- Can I still take IELTS as a paper-based test?
- How are my Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking sections marked in IELTS?