What IELTS score do I need for a UK Student visa?

English language requirements for UK Student visas vary depending on your institution level and course. Here is a comprehensive guide:

Foundation and below degree level (UKVI IELTS required):
- B1 level (CEFR) — approximately IELTS Academic 4.0–4.5 or IELTS UKVI Listening/Reading 4.0, Writing 4.0, Speaking 4.0

Degree level and above at UK universities:
- Undergraduate: B2 CEFR — typically IELTS 5.5–6.5 overall, no band below 5.5
- Postgraduate: B2–C1 — IELTS 6.0–7.0 depending on institution and programme
- Specific programmes like law, medicine, education may require higher scores

Which IELTS test:
For UK student visa purposes, you generally need IELTS for UKVI (Academic) — not the standard IELTS Academic. Both are available at the same centres but are different tests. Check with your institution and UKVI guidance on which is required.

Alternatives to IELTS accepted by UKVI:
- TOEFL iBT (UKVI-approved versions for some purposes)
- PTE Academic (UKVI) — Pearson also offers a UKVI-specific version
- Cambridge English (B2 First, C1 Advanced, C2 Proficiency) — UKVI approved
- Trinity ISE (Integrated Skills in English)

University-level exemptions:
- Citizens of certain countries (USA, Canada, Australia, Ireland, NZ, and others)
- Those who completed previous education in English (must be recent and from a recognised institution)

Key difference from other countries: UK UKVI requires specific UKVI-approved tests, not just any IELTS test. Standard IELTS Academic (non-UKVI version) is accepted for university admission but some visa categories require the UKVI version specifically — confirm with UKVI guidance.