United Kingdom

IELTS tests for UK Visas and Immigration

IELTS tests are accepted by the UKVI as proof of English proficiency for those wishing to live, work, or study in the UK.

IELTS tests for UK Visas and Immigration must be taken in person at an official IELTS test centre.

There are 2 types of test as different immigration routes require different levels of English language ability. The test you will need to take depends on what you are applying for: visit GOV.uk for more information about application routes.

Make sure that the test centre you book with offers IELTS UKVI (Academic), IELTS UKVI (General Training) and IELTS Life Skills testing. UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) requires an additional layer of security when taking IELTS tests.

What score do I need for UKVI visa applications?

The score you will need for UKVI visa applications, known as the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) level, will depend on the route you are applying for. (Find out more at GOV.uk).

For visas that require CEFR level B1, you need to get at least an IELTS score of 4.0 in all four sections of your IELTS for UKVI test (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking).
For visas that require CEFR level B2 you need to get at least an IELTS score of 5.5 in all four sections of your IELTS for UKVI test (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking).
For visas that require CEFR level C1 you need to get at least an IELTS score of 7.0 in all four sections of your IELTS for UKVI test (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking).

The UK government requires you to achieve the scores above in every section of your test. Find out more about IELTS scoring and see how IELTS helps you to prepare.

IELTS for a Student Visa (without a pre-sessional)

If you are applying for a Student Visa to study for an undergraduate or postgraduate degree at a university that is a licensed student sponsor, you must meet the English language level set by the institution. All UK universities and colleges accept IELTS results.

Student Visa applicants can apply to the UK universities on this list with an IELTS result. Please check with the institution you are applying to for their exact requirements.