Searching for uk universities without ielts is common among international students who wish to study abroad. Several leading UK universities now provide admission pathways that do not require IELTS. This allows students, including those from Pakistan, to pursue higher education in the UK through alternative options.
IELTS is a requirement that many students find difficult to meet. IELTS is expensive, time-consuming and difficult for many students to pass. Good news! The good news?
Why Students Want to Study in the UK Without IELTS
Many reasons exist why international students look for UK universities that do not require IELTS.
- IELTS difficulty: Many students struggle to reach the required band score (6,0-6,5).
- Cost – IELTS registration costs a lot in Pakistan, India and Bangladesh.
- The IELTS preparation may cause a delay in the admissions process.
- There are many options – Most universities accept Duolingo, PTE or their own internal English assessment.
How to Study in the UK Without IELTS
You can still get into UK universities even if you don’t have IELTS. Explore the most common alternatives.
1. Medium of Instruction (MOI) Certificate
The Medium of Instruction Certificate (MOI) is one of the most popular alternatives to IELTS.
- Your institution can issue a MOI letter if your previous education was entirely taught in English (school, college or bachelor’s).
- This letter confirms the fact that English was your primary language of instruction.
- Most UK universities will waive IELTS requirements if you can prove that you have a good level of English.
For example, a student from Pakistan that studied at an English-medium college or school can submit an MOI to Universities like University of Bolton or Coventry University in order to gain admission without IELTS.
Why this works:
The UK considers MOI as a valid alternative because it demonstrates that you have mastered English in a classroom setting. This is particularly useful for students who come from South Asia or Africa and the Middle East where English is commonly used in education.
2. Alternative English Tests
There are other ways to prove your English language proficiency. There are many universities in the UK that accept other English language tests.
Duolingo English Test (DET)
- The cost is much lower than for IELTS and TOEFL.
- Take the test online at home.
- Results are available in 48 hours.
- Duolingo is now accepted by more than 100 UK universities.
Duolingo is accepted by universities like University of Glasgow and University of Exeter.
PTE Academic
- Test on a computer with reading, writing, speaking and listening.
- Many UK universities accept the visa and UKVI.
- Results are typically delivered within five days.
Examples: Aston University and University of Bedfordshire, as well as Sheffield Hallam University.
TOEFL
- Test your academic English with an online test.
- Globally accepted, including by many UK institutions
- Universities recognize the certificate as a proof of competence for visa and admission purposes.
Cambridge English Test (C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency)
- A highly respected qualification that demonstrates advanced English language skills.
- Leading universities like University of Warwick, University of Bristol and University of Bristol accept the course.
- Valid for life, unlike IELTS which is only valid for two years.
Why this works:
Alternative tests can be flexible, cheaper and, in some cases, easier than IELTS. The tests also allow students to try multiple times, which reduces stress.
3. Pre-Sessional English Courses
A pre-sessional English class at your university of choice is another option.
- The short courses are designed to improve academic English. They can range from 6 to 20 weeks.
- Usually, they take place right before you begin your degree program.
- The university will waive the IELTS requirement once you have successfully completed the course and you are admitted to your chosen degree.
Pre-sessional English classes are offered by the University of Southampton and University of Portsmouth.
Advantages:
- Improves your academic English skills and confidence.
- You begin your studies with a system of education that is familiar to you.
- Direct entry to the degree program following course completion.
The best option for students who have a weak grasp of English, but want to continue their higher education in the UK.
4. University’s Own English Test / Interview
Some UK universities have developed their own English-language assessments.
- After you have applied, there will be an online test or video interview.
- You will be tested on your speaking, listening and comprehension abilities.
- You can be admitted to university without IELTS if you pass.
Example:
- The University of Bolton administers an English test to all applicants.
- University of Greenwich can conduct a brief online interview with students from abroad.
Advantages:
- No additional cost when compared with IELTS or external exams.
- Admission process is faster, since you do not need to book another test.
- Students who feel confident about their English abilities but do not want to stress out over IELTS.
List of UK Universities Without IELTS
This list is updated and includes the top UK Universities that accept students without IELTS.
| Name of the University | IELTS Alternative | Special Notes |
| University of Bristol | MOI, PTE | High ranking is good for business & engineering |
| University of Portsmouth | Pre-sessional MOI course | Tuition fees that are affordable |
| Swansea University | Duolingo, Cambridge English | Excellent student support |
| University of Greenwich | MOI Interview | Popular Business & IT Programs |
| University of Bolton | Internal English Test | Flexible admissions are a hallmark of the hotel |
| Sheffield Hallam University | MOI, PTE, Duolingo | Wide range of alternative options are accepted |
| University of Essex | Pre-sessional MOI English | Research programs are good for the public. |
| Aston University | Duolingo, Cambridge English | Employability record |
| Northumbria University | MOI Interview | High acceptance of modern facilities |
| Middlesex University | MOI, Cambridge, Duolingo | South Asian Student Base |
| University of Central Lancashire | MOI Interview | Affordable tuition fees |
| University of Bedfordshire | MOI, Duolingo | The best for international students |
| University of Plymouth | MOI Pre-sessional Course | Science has a strong reputation |
| University of Warwick | MOI, Cambridge, Duolingo | High ranking, prestigious |
| Coventry University | MOI, Pre-sessional | Popular with South Asian Students |
More universities may accept MOI, or alternative alternatives. Verify the most recent requirements by contacting the admissions office.
UK Student Visa Without IELTS: Is It Possible?
One of the most frequently asked questions by students is: “Can I obtain a UK Student Visa without IELTS?”
YES. The UKVI will accept a CAS letter (Confirmation for Acceptance of Studies) without IELTS if your university has issued one.
You must also provide one of the following proofs.
- You can request a MOI from your former institution
- Other English test results: Duolingo, TOEFL, PTE
- Proof of passing the university’s English tests
The UK student visa can be obtained without IELTS if you meet the English requirements of your university.
Start Your UK Study Journey Today
It will be possible to study in the UK without IELTS. International students can pursue their dreams of UK education with multiple options such as MOI and Duolingo.
Still confused? Don’t worry! BFL Consultants is a specialist in UK Admissions without IELTS. They can guide you through the entire process, from university selection to visa applications.
Contact us now to begin your journey towards studying in the UK with no IELTS.
FAQs About Studying in the UK Without IELTS
Yes, many UK universities accept students without IELTS if they provide an MOI certificate, Duolingo, PTE, or clear a pre-sessional English course.
Yes, several UK universities now accept the Duolingo English Test as a cheaper and faster alternative to IELTS for international students.
Yes, if your university issues a CAS letter without IELTS, the UKVI accepts it. You may need MOI or another recognized English test for visa approval.
Affordable options include the University of Bedfordshire, UCLan, and University of Bolton, which accept alternatives like MOI and Duolingo.
The easiest method is using an MOI certificate if your previous education was in English. Otherwise, Duolingo and pre-sessional courses are widely accepted.
