How to study in UK universities without IELTS?

Want to study in UK universities without IELTS? IELTS is an important exam for those who want to study in the UK. It is an English language assessment test for non-native English speakers. IELTS is one of the admission criteria when you apply to many UK universities. Many UK universities will not allow admission without IELTS. But there are certain alternative requirements that can be satisfied to get admission in UK without IELTS. 

In the United Kingdom, international students can get a post-study work visa to stay back for two years to work. This makes it a good destination for higher studies. In this blog, we shall go through some methods to get accepted to UK colleges without IELTS.

Table of Contents

• What is the IELTS test?
• Study at a UK University without IELTS
• Is it possible to get a UK study visa without IELTS?
• Top 15 Universities in UK Without IELTS
• FAQ

What is the IELTS test?

IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is a standardised test conducted by the British Council, IDP IELTS, and Cambridge University which is used by universities to evaluate the English language proficiency of applicants. There are four sections - reading, writing, listening and speaking. The aggregate band score of these sections will be a factor for non-native English speakers to get admission to universities abroad. The test will be for 2 hours and 45 minutes. Even though IELTS is mandatory for many universities, it is possible to study in UK Universities without IELTS.

Study at a UK University without IELTS

Option 1: Showing proof that you studied in a school with English as the primary medium of instruction.

If you have studied at an English medium school till your 12th standard you can use it to get into some UK universities without IELTS. The universities will ask you to show proof of the medium of previous education of the applicant. The universities may accept your application if you have studied in a school with English as the primary language of communication. If you are applying for a master's course, you must prove that you completed graduation in English medium.

Option 2: Having good marks in English in your 10th and 12th standards.

Some universities consider the class X and XII English marks as proof of English language proficiency. You need to have a minimum of 70% marks in English to apply to such universities in UK without IELTS. Your marks from high school or senior year can be given as proof of English proficiency.

Option 3: Attending the interview of the university conducted to evaluate your language skills.

Some universities conduct video interviews to evaluate your English language skills. If they are satisfied with your language, you may not need to submit your IELTS score. So you have to perform well in the video interview for admission to a UK university without IELTS.

Option 4: Taking other English language tests.

IELTS is one of the English language tests accepted by UK universities. There are a few other English tests that you need to know if you are planning to seek admission to a UK university without IELTS. TOEFL, Trinity College London Integrated Skills in English (ISE), PTE Academic, Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE), Secure English Language Test (SELT), and Duolingo can also be taken to show your English proficiency. If your desired university accepts these tests you can plan to study in UK without IELTS. Check the admission requirement of your university and apply accordingly.

Option 5: If the university allows you to take pre-sessional English

If your English language skills are not strong enough, some universities provide pre-sessional English courses. These courses will be taught at the beginning of your studies which will help you adapt to their language and be able to understand the classes well. You can get more information about these on the university websites. The overseas education advisors will help you with more information. This is a good option for those who lack confidence in the English language.

Is it possible to get a UK study visa without IELTS?

Yes, if your university doesn't need your IELTS score, it is not necessary for student visa application. The documents for the study visa can be submitted online. You should get a document from the university stating your eligibility for a study visa without IELTS. The UK  also accepts SELT (Secure English Language Test) scores as proof of English language proficiency.

Documents required for UK student visa for Indian students without IELTS:

• Completed student visa application form
• Acceptance letter showing UK university admission without IELTS.
• A current passport
• Proof of funds.
• Any additional documents asked.

Top 15 Universities in UK Without IELTS

1. The University of Warwick
2. The University of Bristol
3. London Southbank University
4. Northumbria University
5. The University of Bolton
6. The University of Northampton
7. University of Plymouth
8. Portsmouth University
9. Aston University
10. Swansea University
11. Robert Gordon University
12. Riga Technical University
13. Sheffield Hallam University
14. University of Basel
15. University of Geneva

Top MBA Universities in UK without IELTS

• Middlesex University
• Birmingham City University
• Lancaster University
• University of Lancashire
• University of Reading
• University of Bedfordshire
• University of Greenwich
• De Montfort University
• University of Sunderland
• University of East London

FAQ

1. Can I apply to UK universities without IELTS?

Yes, you can apply to UK universities without IELTS. To study in UK without IELTS, you should have over 70% in English in High School or should have taken an online interview by the university, or proof that you studied in an English medium school.

2. Is IELTS compulsory for UK visa?

No, if your university doesn't require IELTS for admission then you don't need IELTS for applying for a UK visa.

3. Which are the cheapest universities in the UK without IELTS?

Northumbria University is the cheapest UK university without IELTS. They offer bachelor's and master's degrees and research opportunities.

4. Can we work in UK without IELTS?

You need to have IELTS to get a UK work visa. You should submit your IELTS General score in order to apply for a UK work visa.

5. Is 5.5 bands eligible for UK?

Your admission to a UK university depends on its admission criteria. If you have scored 5.5 bands in IELTS, you should check with your university for their admission criteria.