Most of the international students who want to study in the UK have one important concern in common, is it possible to study in the United Kingdom without taking the IELTS exam? The short answer is: Yes! You can study in the United Kingdom without taking the IELTS. There are many universities that have alternative requirements, such as proof of a grade of 60 percent or higher in English in grades XI and XII, an undergraduate degree in English, or a pre-sessional language course for international students. Some renowned universities that do not require IELTS from international students include The University of Central Lancashire, University of Greenwich, Swansea University, University of Northampton, University of Plymouth, Portsmouth University, and Northumbria University.
Here we will be briefly discussing about the possibility and prospects of studying in the UK without taking IELTS.
Why is IELTS usually needed?
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a globally standardized language assessment exam used by higher educational institutions to assess the language skills of potential international students. This test is usually divided into four sections: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. After finishing this test, students will obtain an overall score for all of their fundamental English language skills. Exams like these are used to assess your language skills in English-speaking countries like the United Kingdom, the USA, Canada, etc.
Other options:
IELTS isn’t the only way a university can assess an applicant’s English competence. If you haven’t taken the IELTS exam, universities in the United Kingdom offer various options.
Consider the following IELTS substitute criteria supplied by UK universities:
Some universities may need you to participate in an online interview to test your English abilities: Candidates may be asked to participate in a video interview by some universities. This will assist the university in determining your level of English comprehension and making an appropriate selection. You must do well in this interview in order to gain admission to UK universities that do not require IELTS.
Universities may occasionally inquire about the student’s previous educational medium: If you received all of your schooling in English, the institution may consider this proof of your ability to be accepted without IELTS. To pursue a master’s degree in the United Kingdom without taking the IELTS exam, you must demonstrate that you have completed a bachelor’s degree in English.
Some universities would require your high-school grades: Some colleges would use your high school grades instead of IELTS if you received a grade of 70 percent or higher in English. Universities, on the other hand, have established their own standards for certain courses.
UK Student Visa without IELTS:
Some important steps to know while applying for a UK Student Visa:
- You must begin applying for a UK study visa on the Home Office website once you have obtained an acceptance letter from a UK university.
- You must ensure that you are applying for the correct form of visa, namely a Student Visa, at the time of application.
- You must pay visa application fees after completing the application and paying the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). Applicants must schedule an appointment with a VFS near them to present biometrics and submit an application with all relevant supporting documentation.
- A visa determination will take 2 to 15 working days, depending on the type of service chosen at the time of application. The processing duration for standard visa applications is 15 working days.
Requirements for the UK Student Visa without IELTS:
While most of the universities have their own specific requirements, a general list of requirements for the universities who offer admission to international students without taking IELTS is given below:
- A letter of acceptance on the course indicating admission to a UK university.
- A valid passport
- Proof of financial means to support oneself throughout your stay in the UK. You must be able to prove that you do have the much required amount and resources in order to be granted the Student Visa after getting relegated.
Depending upon the specific requirements of any university, you may also be required to supply any extra documentation. You must submit your biometrics, as well as a scanned photograph and fingerprints.
To get more information and assistance to achieve your dream of studying in the UK, and that too without IELTS, feel free to contact us!