Applying for a student visa but am confused about which IELTS test to take. This question stumps a lot of students. As choosing the wrong test can lead to big problems—missed deadlines, visa rejections, and extra costs for retakes. For example, the UK requires a specific IELTS for UKVI test, and some universities only accept the IELTS Academic for degree programs. So, if you submit the wrong test score, you might face delays or even rejection. That’s a real bummer!
No—worries! In this blog, we’ll break down everything and make it simple and clear, so you know exactly which IELTS test to choose. Ready to make the right choice for your student visa? Let’s dive in!
Why Do You Need IELTS for a Student Visa?
According to britishcouncil.org.bd IELTS – is the world’s most popular English language proficiency test, which evaluates your reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. In countries where English is the native language, you need to prove your English language skills while applying for jobs and university courses. So, if you’re planning to study abroad, IELTS is your best bet. You’ll have to take the test to show how you’ll use English in an English-speaking environment as you study, work, and live. IELTS will help you become more proficient in real-world English. Likewise, you can use IELTS to improve your English language skills as well as relocate abroad to study or advance your career.
Which IELTS Test Do You Need for a Student Visa?
According to britishcouncil.org.bd, there are two types of IELTS tests:
- IELTS Academic (for undergraduate or postgraduate level, UK Student Route visa, or work for a professional organization).
- IELTS General Training (for below degree level such as diplomas, certifications, or vocational training, work, or train in an English-speaking country, emigrate, or get a job).
Which one’s right for you? It all depends on whether you’re aiming to study or work in your dream country!
As mentioned in ielts.idp.com If you want to pursue higher education or professional registration (doctors, nurses, teachers, or lawyers), you can take the IELTS Academic test. This test evaluates your level of academic English language skills and reflects academic language qualities. It also helps you determine whether or not you are ready to begin your studies. Likewise, If you want to go to secondary education, work, or migrate to an English-speaking country, the IELTS General Training test might be perfect for you. In Bangladesh, most students who attend private coaching centers and training sessions take academic module tests, not general modules.
However, don’t forget to visit the relevant government or institution websites to confirm which test you need to take. Each Government agency, institution and other organization set its own requirements.
What are the minimum IELTS score requirements for student visas in different countries?
The minimum score you need can vary quite a bit from one country to another and even among universities. So, it’s super important to know what target you should be aiming for!
United Kingdom
The IELTS score required for a student visa in the UK depends on the level of subject matter you intend to study:
- University-level courses: According to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), a level B2 is the minimal requirement. An IELTS score in the range of 5.5 to 6.5 is equivalent to this.
- Below-university level courses: You will require a lower CEFR score of at least B1. So, in IELTS terms, this implies aiming for a score of 4 to 5, which shows you have a good basic comprehension of English.
However, each institution or program may have its own IELTS requirements, which could be more than than the visa’s minimum. Always confirm the actual IELTS score required by your chosen educational institutions. Here is the list of minimum IELTS score requirements by different universities in UK.
United States
In the United States, each institution sets its own minimum IELTS score required for a student visa. So, check out the English language requirements of the prospective institution before applying.
For example:
- The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) expects a minimum IELTS score of 7, with an acceptable level of 7.5.
- Berkeley College applicants must get an IELTS score of 5.5 or higher.
Here is the list of minimum IELTS score requirements by different universities in the US.
Canada
A study visa for Canada requires students to score at least 5.5 in each of the four IELTS bands, with an overall minimum score of 6.0 or higher for undergraduate and diploma programs.
However, graduate courses demand an overall IELTS score of 6.5 or above and a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 in each band. Meanwhile, keep in mind that the minimum IELTS score requirements for engineering, teaching, and education studies programs are 7.0 overall and per band. Here is the list of minimum IELTS score requirements by different universities in Canada.
Australia
To apply for a student visa, you must have a minimum overall IELTS score of 5.5. Don’t be worry if your scores have not yet got the minimal score. Still, you could be eligible for a student visa.
If your IELTS score is 5.0, which is relatively below the standard minimum, you can only take part in an English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS) for at least ten weeks.
If your IELTS score is 4.5, you will need to participate in a longer ELICOS program of at least 20 weeks. Here is the list of minimum IELTS score requirements by different universities in Australia.
Ireland
If you would like to study in Ireland, you have various options:
- Second Level Education: Secondary education that covers both junior (years 12-15) and senior cycles (ages 15-18).
- Foundation level: Introductory courses with a vocational focus that provide basic information as well as skills in an area of expertise, such as business, healthcare, or technology.
- English preparation courses: English preparation courses are designed for those needing to improve their English before starting their main academic program.
- Higher education courses: Such as undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.
A minimum IELTS score of 4.0 is required for second-level, foundation-level, and English preparation courses. All other courses, such as higher education programs, require an IELTS score of at least 5.0. Here is the list of minimum IELTS score requirements by different universities in Ireland.
New Zealand
A study visa for New Zealand requires students to get at least 5.5 in each of the four IELTS bands, with an overall minimum score of 6.0 or higher for undergraduate programs.
In contrast, graduate courses require a minimum score of 6.0 in each band and an overall IELTS score of 6.5 or higher.
However, if you decide to pursue a degree in engineering, teaching, or education studies, keep in mind that the minimal overall and per-band score is 7.0. Here is the list of minimum IELTS score requirements by different universities in New Zealand.
Conclusion
When it comes to your student visa, choosing the right IELTS test is a big deal. Getting the wrong IELTS test score can be really stressful, especially after you’ve worked so hard to prepare for studying abroad. Imagine dreaming about going to abroad for your education, only to find out that your application might be delayed or even rejected because you took the wrong test. That would be super disappointing, right? It’s tough to think that a simple mistake could ruin your plans. That’s why always double-check with your school/college/university and visa office so you don’t get caught by surprise.
Feeling nervous? That’s totally normal! Don’t stress, just take it one step at a time. Start by trying a few practice tests, or if you want a little extra help, consider finding a local coaching center. And hey, if you’re looking for more study tips or resources, we’ve got a bunch of them up on our website—just something to help you along the way.
Remember, every single step brings you closer to studying abroad!
