Demonstrating your English language ability is a non-negotiable part of your UK Student Visa application. The Home Office has strict rules on how you can prove your proficiency, and failure to meet them is a common reason for refusal.
Our expert immigration advisors provide clear, step-by-step guidance on the English language requirement. We will help you choose the right path, book the correct test if needed, and ensure your application is supported by the correct evidence for a successful outcome.
Three Ways to Prove Your Knowledge of English
You can satisfy the English language requirement through one of three main routes. We can help you determine which one is right for you.
1. Pass a Secure English Language Test (SELT)
This is the most common method. You must take a test from a provider specifically approved by the UK Home Office. Tests like ‘IELTS for UKVI’ or ‘Pearson PTE Academic UKVI’ are popular choices.
2. Hold an Approved UK School Qualification
If you studied at a UK school when you were under 18 and gained a GCSE, A level, or Scottish equivalent in English, you can use this qualification as proof.
3. Have a Degree-Level Qualification Taught in English
If you have a degree-level qualification that was taught or researched in English, this can be used as evidence.
- Important: If you studied outside the UK, you must first obtain confirmation from Ecctis (the service that replaced UK NARIC) that your degree is equivalent to a UK Bachelor’s degree or higher. We can guide you through the Ecctis application process.
What Level of English Do You Need?
The required level of proficiency is measured on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) scale.
| Course Level | Minimum CEFR Level Required |
| Degree Level or Above (RQF 6+) | Level B2 |
| Below Degree Level (RQF 3, 4, 5) | Level B1 |
[H3] Special Note for Higher Education Provider (HEP) Students
If you are studying a degree-level course, your university (if it is a Higher Education Provider) has the authority to assess your English language ability themselves. They may use their own internal tests or criteria. If your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) states that your university has assessed your English, you often do not need to provide a separate SELT certificate.
Who is Exempt from Proving English Language Ability?
You are automatically exempt from the English language requirement and do not need to provide any evidence if you are a national of a majority English-speaking country, including:
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Australia
- The Bahamas
- Barbados
- Belize
- Canada
- Dominica
- Grenada
- Guyana
- Ireland
- Jamaica
- Malta
- New Zealand
- St Kitts and Nevis
- St Lucia
- St Vincent and the Grenadines
- Trinidad and Tobago
- USA
You are also exempt if you have completed a degree-level qualification in one of the countries listed above.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – English Language Rules
Q: My university says my English is good enough. Do I still need an IELTS test?
A: Not always. If your university is a Higher Education Provider (HEP) and your course is at degree level, their assessment is often sufficient. Your CAS will confirm this. We can review your CAS to give you a definitive answer.
Q: I am a Canadian citizen. Do I need to take an English test?
A: No. As a national of Canada, you are exempt from the requirement.
Q: I am a US student coming for a ‘study abroad’ programme. Do I need to prove my English?
A: No. If you are part of a university degree course in the USA and are coming to the UK for a study abroad programme, you are exempt.
Don’t Let the English Test Be a Barrier to Your UK Studies
The English language requirement is a critical hurdle in your visa application. Misunderstanding the rules can lead to wasted time and money on the wrong tests or a visa refusal. Our experts provide clear and accurate advice tailored to your specific situation.
About the Author:
Farzad Ghods is an international lawyer specialising in UK immigration law. He is regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) and the Immigration Advisors Authority (IAA) in the United Kingdom, and is also a member of the Iran Bar Association. He brings over fourteen years of professional legal experience to his practice.