How to Study in the UK Without IELTS
The United Kingdom is one of the most preferred destinations for international students looking to pursue higher education. However, one common obstacle many students face when considering the UK as their study destination is the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) requirement. IELTS is designed to assess the English language proficiency of a student and it can be a significant barrier for non-native English speakers.
But here’s the good news: Now, it’s possible to study in the UK without IELTS! The UK offers a range of pathways and alternatives for international students to meet language proficiency requirements.
Whether you’re a non-native English speaker aspiring to earn a degree in the UK, or you’re simply looking for ways to bypass the IELTS exam, we’ve got you covered. In this blog, we’ll explore various alternatives, essential tips, and valuable insights to help you navigate the process of studying in the UK without IELTS. So, let’s dive in and unlock the door to your UK education journey!
What do you mean by IELTS?
Before diving into the main topic, let’s first understand what is the meaning of IELTS.
The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) test evaluates a person’s ability to read, write, speak, and listen in English. It is essentially a standardized test for a student whose mother tongue is not English and who wishes to demonstrate his or her competency in that language.
Best Universities in the UK Without IELTS
The list of universities that accept Indian students without IELTS is shown below –
Sr No. | University |
1. | University of Plymouth |
2. | University of Portsmouth |
3. | Swansea University |
4. | University of Warwick |
5. | London South Bank University |
6. | University of Greenwich |
7. | University of Central Lancashire |
8. | Aston University |
9. | Northumbria University |
10. | Robert Gordon University |
11. | University of Bolton |
12. | Birmingham City University |
13. | Riga Technical University |
14. | University of Northampton |
15. | Sheffield Hallam University |
16. | University of Basel |
17. | University of Bristol |
18. | University of Geneva |
19. | Birmingham City University |
20. | University of Central Lancashire |
Top 5 UK Universities without IELTS
Sr. No. | University | Description | Popular Courses |
1. | University of Essex | The University of Essex, a renowned institution in the United Kingdom, boasts a diverse student body of around 15,000 individuals representing nearly 130 different countries. In 2018, it received the prestigious “University of the Year” accolade at the Times Higher Education Awards, largely due to its remarkable commitment to fostering diversity and a rich legacy of social change initiatives. A key driver of its widespread appeal is the straightforward and hassle-free application process offered by the university. |
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2. | London South Bank University | London South Bank University stands out as a highly sought-after choice for those aspiring to study in the UK. The university’s admission process primarily hinges on academic merit, which includes assessing factors like an applicant’s XII grade point average or their undergraduate degree performance. Moreover, for individuals without IELTS results, the university offers the flexibility of enrolling in preparatory English classes before pursuing their desired program, making it an attractive destination for those looking to study in the UK without IELTS. London South Bank University distinguishes itself by offering a diverse array of courses spanning humanities, arts, sciences, business, and management disciplines. |
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3. | University of Bristol | The University of Bristol, a prestigious institution in the UK with roots dating back to its establishment in 1595, provides a straightforward undergraduate admissions process through Universities and Colleges Admission Services. It offers a broad spectrum of part-time and full-time programs across various fields, positioning itself as a top choice for international students seeking admission without IELTS. |
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4. | Sheffield Hallam University | Nestled in South Yorkshire, Sheffield Hallam University stands as one of the UK’s premier educational institutions. It boasts an extensive array of both full-time and part-time programs across a diverse range of academic disciplines. For those aspiring to study in the UK without the need for an IELTS exam, Sheffield Hallam University offers an enticing alternative. Students can opt to enroll in an English language course at the university’s TESOL center, equipping them with the necessary language proficiency to pursue their academic journey. |
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5. | Robert Gordon University | Robert Gordon University, a prominent institution in Aberdeen, came into existence in 1992 and has earned global recognition for its outstanding offerings in engineering,architecture, and technology. This university ranks high among those catering to students seeking to pursue their education in the UK without the IELTS requirement. It provides prospective students with the opportunity to participate in an intensive 8-week pre-sessional English program designed to enhance their language proficiency. Additionally, for applicants looking to join Robert Gordon University without the prerequisite IELTS score, the university offers its proprietary RGU English Proficiency Test as an alternative assessment. |
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Documents Needed to Study in the UK without IELTS
- SSC mark sheet
- HSC mark sheet
- Bachelor’s semester marks sheet
- Provisional certificate & consolidated marks memo
- Medium of Instruction certificate (Depending on the senior year scores in English)
- Passport
- Letter of Recommendations
- Resume (CV)
- Statement of Purpose
- Offer letter
- Experience letter (if any)
Criteria for Indian Students to Study in the UK Without IELTS
There are several alternatives one might explore to study in the UK without IELTS, thus it is understandable how crucial an IELTS score is to remain and study in the UK.
1. Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate
Certain UK universities grant international students admission without requiring an IELTS test, provided they received their prior education in an English-medium school. To substantiate their English language proficiency, students must obtain a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate from their former educational institution.
2. Class 12th English Scores
UK universities that admit students without the need for an IELTS examination typically rely on the English Language scores from the students’ 12th-grade results. In unique situations, some universities might consider the English marks from the 10th grade. These institutions often accept a combination of both 10th and 12th-grade English test scores as valid indicators of the students’ English language proficiency.
3. Online Interviews
In some cases, certain colleges may conduct online interviews via platforms like Skype as part of their admissions process. During these interviews, the colleges assess the applicants’ English language proficiency and communication skills.
4. Taking several language proficiency exams
In the UK, alternative language competency exams, apart from the IELTS, are gaining traction and significance. Students have the option to opt for assessments such as the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), Cambridge English Proficiency (CPE), PTE Academic, Duolingo test, or ISE (Trinity College London Integrated Skills in English) if they wish to bypass the IELTS.
Requirements to Study in the UK
Admission Requirements –
- High school or undergraduate degree completion in the appropriate field with a grade point average of at least 55% from the UK or another country that is comparable to a UK certification.
- Language proficiency in English at least at CLB level B2.
UK Student Visa Process without IELTS
- Following receipt of an acceptance letter from a UK university, you must begin the online application process for a UK study visa through the Home Office.
- Make sure you are applying for the appropriate sort of visa, i.e., a student visa, at the time of application.
- You must pay visa application fees after completing your application and paying the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). To give biometrics and submit an application with the necessary supporting documents, applicants must make an appointment at the closest VFS.
- The time it takes to receive a decision on a visa will vary depending on the service type used at the time of application (2 to 15 working days).
The processing duration for Standard Visa applications is 15 Working Days.
5 Working Days for priority applications.
1 or 2 days for Super Priority applications.
UK Student Visa Requirements without IELTS
- Academic Documents
- Passport.
- Experience Letters (If any): Offer Letter, Currently Working Letter, Last 3 months’ payslips.
- ATAS Certificate (if Applicable)
- CAS Letter.
- Acceptable Financial documents: Bank Balance Certificate along with the Last 3 month’s bank statements, Loan Approval Letter from Bank, and Fixed deposit Certificates if any.
- Medical Certificate from a clinic approved by UKVI.
- Birth Certificate.
- Affidavit of Sponsorship from Parents if funds are held in the parent account.
Full-time work in the UK without IELTS
As an alternative to taking the IELTS, you can provide your academic records from bachelor’s or master’s level studies, demonstrating a minimum grade point average of 70% from your school or college. This is a viable option for those applying for a UK post-study work visa. Furthermore, candidates have the option of submitting the IELTS UKVI results, achieving a score of at least four bands in all categories, simplifying the process of securing a UK work visa without the need for the standard IELTS examination. Those who hold a UK degree and possess a Tier 4 visa will also qualify for the Graduate Route, which is set to be launched in 2022.
Lists of Scholarships available in the UK
Here is a list of some of the top scholarships available to Indian students who wish to study in the UK without taking the IELTS exam –
Sr. No. | Scholarships |
1. | Rhodes Scholarship |
2. | Great Scholarship |
3. | Chevening Scholarship |
4. | University of Plymouth UK Scholarship |
5. | Welcome (UK Government) Scholarship |
6. | UK Bristol University Scholarships |
7. | The University of West England Chancellor Scholarship |
8. | University of Westminster Scholarships |
9. | The University of Sussex International Scholarships |
10. | Nottingham Trent University Scholarships |
11. | University of Birmingham Scholarship |
In this blog, we have covered all the critical aspects of how to study in the UK without IELTS. If you have more concerns or questions regarding studying abroad, please contact MSM Unify as soon as possible!
At MSM Unify, you can explore more than 50,000 courses across 1500+ educational institutions across the globe. MSM Unify has helped 1,50,000+ students achieve their study abroad dream so far. Now, it is your turn to attain your study-abroad dreams and elevate your professional journey!
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