IELTS aka International English Language Testing System is a proficiency skill-testing exam that is jointly managed by the British Council and IDP. Every year thousands of aspirants go for this exam making it one of the widely taken and most popular proficiency skill-testing exams for higher studies in English speaking countries.
People willing to go for higher studies in foreign countries most of the time have to appear for this exam as academic band score is important for taking admission in many top universities.
Every year many students prepare for the UK universities making it a favourite destination for higher studies. There are many aspirants who want to get a UK student visa without IELTS. Is it possible to go to London for higher studies without appearing on the IELTS exam? is IELTS required for the UK? Here in this article, you will get all your answers.
UK Universities without IELTS
There is a concern among students willing to take admission in UK universities regarding the requirements for IELTS score. There are students who want to know about universities that allow admission without the International English Language Testing System score.
- Portsmouth University.
- Swansea University.
- The University of Northampton.
- The University of Plymouth.
- Aston University, Birmingham.
- Riga Technical University.
- The University of Greenwich.
- The University of Central Lancashire.
- Sheffield Hallam University.
- The University of Warwick.
- The University of Geneva.
- London Southbank University.
- The University of Bristol.
- The University of Basel.
- Birmingham City University.
- Audencia Nantes School of Management.
- Robert Gordon University.
- The University of Bolton.
- Northumbria University.
How to Study in the UK without IELTS
UK universities that allow admission without the International English Language Testing System have their own assessment methods for judging the candidates’ English proficiency level. Students have to prove themselves on that test to make them eligible for studying in those universities. One must check with the institutions of their choice about their admission process.
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Criteria used by Colleges to Assess Language Proficiency
Some of the common criteria used to assess the candidates’ language proficiency include:
- The medium of education: If you have completed your education from an English-medium school, the universities might consider it to be proof of your language proficiency. Your background in English ensures that you are proficient in the language.
- Marks in English: Some universities may consider taking you if you have scored well above 60% in English in Grades 10th and 12th. Depending on your scores in the subject, some universities compare them to IELTS band scores as well.
- Interview: Another option considered by universities is an online interview to assess your language and level in English. The online interviews include questions that can help them assess your fluency and understanding of the language.
- Exam: An online exam can also be used to test your language skills. The exam may test different areas of English proficiency.
Alternative Exams to IELTS
Some alternative exams to IELTS can also ensure that you get the educational institute of your choice and ranking. These include:
TOEFL
TOEFL the abbreviated form of Test of English as a Foreign Language is known to be one of the most widely accepted tests in English. It is a test that assesses the language proficiency of non-native English speakers applying to English-speaking institutions. TOEFL is applicable in universities in Australia and New Zealand, Canada, UK and Europe, and the US.
Pearson PTE Academic Test
Pearson PTE Academic tests are designed to assess and validate the language use of non-native English speakers. PTE tests also validate the language skills that help you obtain a UK study visa or apply for UK immigration.
IELTS Indicator
The IELTS Indicator test is an online exam that assesses the language skills of the candidate in the areas of listening, reading, writing, and speaking. It has the same format, structure, and content as the regular IELTS exam. It helps you obtain an IELTS score without appearing for IELTS physically. The list of universities that accept this exam is updated regularly and can be checked online.
Password English Language Testing
Password English Language tests are aligned to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). The CEFR is known to be the international standard for testing language ability. The tests are academically managed by a research group called CRELLA (Centre for Research in English Language Learning and Assessment). CRELLA is responsible for the development and validation of language assessments such as IELTS and the Cambridge suit.
Duolingo English Tests
The Duolingo English Test is an online assessment that includes a video interview and a writing sample that can be sent directly along with your test results to the universities you are applying for. A Duolingo test can cost around 3607.95 rupees.
Get a UK Visa without an IELTS Score
You can apply for a UK Student visa without an IELTS certification. Once you have been admitted to a university, you receive a CAS or Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies. Your CAS reference number along with other documents can be used to apply for your student visa.
The alternative certifications mentioned above have been officially approved by several educational institutions. Before appearing for the exams, we advise you to check with your college or their website about the kind of exams they accept. The validity and value of a particular exam may vary across countries and colleges.
Conclusion
The present situation given the pandemic has made it difficult for students to prepare for their exams and appear for them. However, we have found you a way to apply to your preferred university with alternative options. We hope the article was encouraging enough for you to start preparing for your dream university right away.
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