Understanding English Language Requirements
English language proficiency is a mandatory requirement for most UK university courses.
Universities and UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI) require evidence that students can study, communicate, and live confidently in an English-speaking academic environment.
At 9 Steps, we help you:
Understand which English tests are accepted
Choose the right qualification for your course and university
Avoid unnecessary tests or costly mistakes
Prepare strategically to meet entry requirements
Why English Language Preparation Matters
English language results affect:
University offers (conditional or unconditional)
CAS issuance
Visa approval
Academic success once in the UK
Choosing the wrong test or achieving the wrong score can delay or block your application — even if you meet all academic requirements.
Our role is to ensure your English qualification:
Is accepted by your chosen university
Meets course-specific requirements
Is valid at the time of application and visa stage
Is the most efficient route for your background
Accepted English Language Qualifications for UK Study
UK universities accept a range of English language tests. Acceptance depends on:
University policy
Course level (Foundation / Undergraduate / Postgraduate)
Visa requirements (Student Route)
Nationality and prior education
Below is a clear breakdown.
IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
Most widely accepted English qualification
Accepted by:
Almost all UK universities
UKVI for Student visas
Common types:
IELTS Academic
IELTS for UKVI (required for some foundation or pre-sessional routes)
Typical score requirements:
Foundation programmes: 4.5 – 5.5
Undergraduate: 6.0 – 6.5
Postgraduate: 6.5 – 7.0+
Minimum band requirements often apply to:
Writing
Speaking
We help you:
Confirm which IELTS type you need
Understand band score requirements
Decide if IELTS for UKVI is necessary
PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English)
Computer-based English test
Accepted by:
Many UK universities
UKVI for Student visas (if approved by the university)
Advantages:
Fully computer-based
Faster results
Popular with students comfortable using technology
Typical score requirements:
Undergraduate: 50 – 58
Postgraduate: 58 – 65+
Important:
Not all universities accept PTE for all courses.
We always check acceptance before advising students to take PTE.
TOEFL iBT
Accepted by:
Selected UK universities
Less commonly used for UK visas, but still accepted for:
Some postgraduate and undergraduate courses
We advise TOEFL only where:
The university confirms acceptance
It aligns with visa requirements
University-Approved Internal English Tests
Some universities offer:
Online English assessments
Internal English tests for offer-holders
These may:
Replace IELTS/PTE in some cases
Be cheaper and faster
Availability depends on:
University
Course
Student profile
We help students identify when this option is available.
English Language Exemptions
You may not need an English test if you meet exemption criteria.
Common exemptions include:
Studying in an English-medium institution
Completing recognised qualifications in English
Holding specific national or international qualifications
Examples (subject to university approval):
UK qualifications
IB Diploma (taught in English)
Some international A-Levels
Degrees taught fully in English (with evidence)
Important:
Exemptions are never automatic.
We verify exemption eligibility directly with universities.
English Language Requirements by Study Level
Foundation Programmes
Lower English thresholds
Often accept IELTS for UKVI
English may be built into the course
Undergraduate Degrees
Usually require IELTS 6.0 – 6.5
Strong focus on writing and speaking
Postgraduate Degrees
Higher language requirements
IELTS 6.5 – 7.0+
Some competitive courses require higher writing scores
When Should You Take Your English Test?
Timing is critical.
We advise students to:
Take tests before applying, where possible
Or apply with conditional offers while preparing for the test
English test results must be:
Valid at CAS stage
Valid at visa application stage
We help you plan test dates to avoid:
Expired results
Rushed retakes
Missed deadlines
How 9 Steps Supports You
We do not sell English courses.
Our role is advisory, strategic, and student-first.
We help with:
Selecting the right English test
Confirming university acceptance
Explaining score requirements clearly
Advising on retakes or alternatives
Coordinating English results with application timelines
This ensures:
No wasted money
No incorrect test submissions
No avoidable delays
Interested in English Language Support?
If you’re unsure:
Which test you need
What score is required
Whether you qualify for exemption
During your session, we will:
Review your academic background
Check course requirements
Advise the best English pathway for you