English tests, and what score you need.
Almost every course in the UK, and every English-taught course in France and Germany, asks for proof of English.
Accepted tests
Which test to sit depends on the university and, for a UK visa, on whether the course needs a Secure English Language Test.
| Test | Typical postgraduate score | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS Academic | 6.5 overall, 6.0 in each part | The most widely accepted. The UKVI version is required for some UK visa routes. |
| PTE Academic | 59 to 65 overall | Results usually arrive within a few days. |
| TOEFL iBT | 88 to 94 overall | Widely accepted, though a few UK universities do not take it. |
| Duolingo English Test | 115 to 125 | Accepted by many universities but not for every visa route. Check before you book. |
| Medium of Instruction letter | Not a test | Some universities accept a letter confirming your previous degree was taught in English, for students from listed countries. |
Scores are typical, not guaranteed. Requirements are set course by course and change. We confirm the exact requirement for your course before you book a test.
Do we run English classes?
No. We are a counselling and admissions consultancy, and we do not teach English or run test preparation classes.
What we do is work out which test you should sit, what score your shortlist actually needs, when to book it so the result arrives in time, and what your options are if you fall short. If you would like to know more about preparing for a test, speak to our counsellor and we will talk it through with you.
If your score is short
Many universities offer a pre-sessional English course of six to twenty weeks that leads straight into the degree. We check which of your offers allow it.
If you have no test yet
Some universities accept a Medium of Instruction letter or your school English marks. It depends on your country and the course.
Timing
Book the test before you apply where you can. A missing English score is the most common reason an offer stalls.
Not sure which test to sit?
Tell us your shortlist and we will tell you the exact score you need and when to book.