English Language Tests Accepted In UK Universities

The United Kingdom is well-known for welcoming a large number of international students from all over the world. In the United Kingdom, there are various globally recognized universities that have sustained their standard of education since their foundation. The universities in the UK have set specific entry requirements. The entry requirements vary among different degree programs and universities, as well as the background of the student applying.

One of the basic entry requirements for UK universities is a Language Proficiency Test. The medium of instruction in the United Kingdom is English. Universities have made English proficiency tests a mandatory requirement for students who do not come from English-medium backgrounds. There are different English proficiency tests, and candidates are advised to appear for the relevant language test accepted at the particular university they apply for.

What Are English Language Tests?

An English Language Test is a standardized test that is a mandatory requirement to gain admission to any of the UK universities. The English language tests examine the individual to determine if they are capable enough to study at a UK-based university. There are different types of English Language Tests and every test has different specifications and a level of scoring.

Types Of English Language Tests Accepted In The UK

The different types of English Language tests that are accepted in the United Kingdom include the following:

IELTS

The International English Testing System (IELTS) is one of the most widely known English language tests. The test is organized by the British Council, Cambridge ESOL Examinations, and IDP Education. The two types of IELTS include: IELTS Academic for study abroad and IELTS General for work and the immigration process. IELTS is divided into four sections: speaking, listening, writing, and reading. It is widely accepted in UK universities for admission. The test is the best way to examine proficiency in the English language. The test results of IELTS are in bands.

TOEFL

The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) was originally introduced to American universities. However, with an expansion in its stature, the test is now considered at a number of universities around the world. The test is also known for work and immigration purposes. It is a three-hour long test divided into speaking, writing, listening, and reading sections. Candidates can appear for the test at their home after getting their device checked or at different test centers.

Pearson Test of English

The Pearson Test of English Academics is a computerized English language proficiency test. Students who look forward to enrolling in UK-based universities appear for the English proficiency test. PTE Academic is widely known in the United Kingdom. The test assesses the reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills of the candidate. PTE test scores are given on a scale of 10 to 90.

SELT

The Secure English Language Test (SELT) is an English language test used to obtain a student visa, a spouse visa, or other visas. The test is an analysis of the reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills of individuals. The time allowed for the test is 190 minutes.

Linguaskill

Linguaskill is an online English language test conducted by Cambridge Assessment English. The test is accepted at different UK universities. The test will determine the English skills of the candidate and whether they are eligible to study at a UK-based university. It is an accurate test that provides results within 48 hours of the test. There is a choice to appear for any of the skills as well. The total time duration for a four skills exam is 2 and a half hour.  

OET

The Occupational English Test (OET) is an English language test specifically for healthcare programs. The test evaluates the healthcare professionals to determine if they are credible enough to practice in an English speaking environment. Candidates are assessed for all the English language skill tests.

Duolingo

Duolingo is a computerized home-based English language test. It is a globally recognized language test that is accepted in more than 800 countries, including the United Kingdom. It is a one-hour English test. The duolingo language test is valid for two years. The results of the test appear forty eight hours after the test.

Cambridge C1 English Advanced

The Cambridge English Advanced is an internationally recognized English Advanced certificate with an accreditation by the University of Cambridge. The purpose of the certification is to evaluate the English language skills of candidates who want to study in UK universities. The total score of CAE is 220. A score of 160–179 is equivalent to 5.5 to 6.5 IELTS scores.

How To Study In The UK Without IELTS

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the English Language Tests?

English language tests are standardized tests used to assess an individual's proficiency in the English language. These tests are considered a mandatory requirement for admission in an English native country.

• Which language test is widely known in the UK?

IELTS is the most widely known English language test in the United Kingdom.

• Is it necessary to appear for an English language test for admission to a UK university?

Yes, English language tests are a mandatory requirement to take admissions in UK-based universities.

• What is the minimum IELTS score accepted at UK universities?

Different universities have different requirements for IELTS bands. However, a 5.5 band is considered the minimum to get admission to UK universities.

• Is Duolingo accepted in UK universities?

Yes, there are various universities in the United Kingdom that accept the Duolingo English Proficiency test.