Study abroad with IELTS
IELTS is the world’s most trusted English test, accepted by over 13,500 educational institutions worldwide. To study abroad, you need to know which IELTS test is required for your course or student visa.
Which IELTS is required for study abroad?
Most students take IELTS Academic. However, UK visas require you to take a Secure English Language Test (SELT): IELTS for UKVI. Always check IELTS study visa requirements before booking your test .
IELTS Academic lets you access study opportunities around the world.
Learn about IELTS for UK student visas and immigration requirements.
How IELTS supports your student visa application
Taking IELTS for studying abroad proves you have the language skills needed to study, live and succeed in English-speaking countries like the UK, USA, Canada or Australia.
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Many Australian visas and educational institutions require you to prove English proficiency by taking a recognised test like IELTS. See the Australian government website for more information, and check the requirements of the university you want to apply to.
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To study in Canada, you’ll need to prove your level of English proficiency with an approved test, usually by meeting the minimum score requirement. However, the score can vary depending on your chosen university or academic institution. Check government (opens in a new tab) and individual university websites for guidance.
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To get a UK visa, you may need to take a SELT with an approved provider like the British Council, usually UKVI (Academic). Find out more about test requirements on the official UK government website (opens in a new tab).
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To apply for a US student visa, you’ll need to provide proof that you have been accepted by an approved educational institution. These institutions will require you to prove your language skills with a test like IELTS, which is accepted by over 3,000 American universities.
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Taking IELTS lets you study at international universities without going abroad. Discover IELTS for transnational education, your first step toward earning an international degree without leaving home.
What IELTS score do you need for popular study destinations?
The minimum test score to apply for a student visa varies by country and university. Always check official websites for your chosen country and institution. Here’s a guide to top destinations:
Country | Typical IELTS requirements | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Australia | 6.0-7.0, depending on study programme | Visa requirements apply; some courses/universities may require higher. |
Canada | 6.0-7.0, depending on programme | Postgraduate & specialised programmes may require 7.0+. |
Europe | Varies widely, often 5.5-7.0 | Many countries accept IELTS for study, like Germany, Netherlands, etc. |
United Kingdom | 4.0-7.0, depending on study programme | Some programmes require higher; UKVI test may be needed for visas. |
United States | 6.0-7.0 overall | Higher scores (7.0+) often required by top-tier universities. |
Why take IELTS with the British Council?
When you take IELTS with the British Council you’ll benefit from our wide network of test centres, flexible test formats, free preparation resources and IELTS tips for study abroad.
Start your study abroad journey with the British Council
Explore our country-specific guides to help you prepare to study abroad. Access expert tips, visa information and test strategies for your dream destination.
Find tips, visa info and resources for taking IELTS for Canada
Learn how to prepare for IELTS to enrol at top US universities.
Access IELTS preparation tips and visa guidance for Australia.
Prepare for IELTS for UKVI with expert guidance and resources.
Plan your study journey: Step-by-step IELTS guide to success
Follow our timeline to prepare, apply and secure your place at a university abroad. Getting organised now will help you meet important deadlines and minimise stress later.
Explore programs, compare options and shortlist your preferred schools. Check who accepts IELTS.
Get exam-ready with British Council practice tests and resources.
Submit forms, transcripts, test scores and recommendation letters.
Accept your offer, gather documents and complete your visa application.