List of IELTS Accepted Countries in 2025 to Achieve Your Study Abroad Dream
The IELTS exam is a crucial test for students aspiring to study in countries where English is the primary language of instruction. Managed by the British Council and IDP, this exam assesses a person's proficiency in reading, writing, speaking, and understanding English.
Many universities, employers, and immigration authorities worldwide recognize IELTS as proof of English language skills. Millions of students take this test every year to achieve their dreams of studying or working abroad.
This insightful guide by LEAMSS helps you understand IELTS-accepted countries, required scores, and how different nations utilize IELTS for education and immigration.
Understanding the IELTS exam briefly
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is widely accepted for academic and immigration purposes. Various IELTS-accepted countries have specific band score requirements, with some accepting scores as low as 5.5 or 6.
For those applying for immigration, countries like Canada, Australia, and the UK use IELTS to assess language proficiency. Achieving the required IELTS score opens doors for higher education, employment, and permanent residency, making it a critical step for aspirants.
List of top countries accepting IELTS scores
If you’re planning to study, work, or immigrate abroad, knowing which countries accept IELTS is essential. Here are some of the best destinations where IELTS is required for education and immigration:
The U.S. is a top choice for international students and professionals. Many universities and employers recognize IELTS as a key English proficiency requirement.
Top Universities Accepting IELTS in the USA:
- Harvard University (7.5)
- Stanford University (7.0)
- University of California, Berkeley (6.5)
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (7.0)
- Yale University (7.0)
The UK has a strong reputation for welcoming international students. IELTS is a mandatory requirement for admissions and visa applications.
Top Universities Accepting IELTS in the UK:
- University of Oxford (7.0)
- University of Cambridge (7.0)
- Imperial College London (6.5)
- London School of Economics (7.0)
- University College London (6.5)
Canada is a popular destination due to its quality education system and welcoming immigration policies.
Top Universities Accepting IELTS in Canada:
- University of Toronto (6.5)
- McGill University (6.5)
- University of British Columbia (6.5)
- University of Waterloo (6.0)
- University of Montreal (6.0)
Australia is known for its student-friendly environment and work-study opportunities. IELTS is a must for university admissions and skilled migration.
Top Universities Accepting IELTS in Australia:
- University of Melbourne (6.5)
- Australian National University (6.5)
- University of Sydney (6.5)
- University of Queensland (6.0)
- University of New South Wales (7.0)
New Zealand offers excellent educational opportunities and requires IELTS for university admissions and immigration.
Top Universities Accepting IELTS in New Zealand:
- University of Auckland (6.5)
- University of Otago (6.5)
- Victoria University of Wellington (6.0)
- University of Canterbury (6.0)
- Auckland University of Technology (6.0)
Here is the list of countries accepting IELTS scores with top universities and the required IELTS score for admission:
|
Country
|
Top universities
|
IELTS score required
|
|
|
Harvard University
|
7.5
|
|
Stanford University
|
7
|
|
University of
California, Berkeley
|
6.5
|
|
Massachusetts
Institute of Technology (MIT)
|
7
|
|
Yale University
|
7
|
|
|
University of Auckland
|
6.5
|
|
University of Otago
|
6.5
|
|
Victoria University
of Wellington
|
6
|
|
University of
Canterbury
|
6
|
|
Auckland University
of Technology
|
6
|
|
|
University of
Melbourne
|
6.5
|
|
Australian National
University
|
6.5
|
|
University of Sydney
|
6.5
|
|
University of
Queensland
|
6
|
|
University of New
South Wales (UNSW)
|
7
|
|
|
University of Oxford
|
7
|
|
University of
Cambridge
|
7
|
|
Imperial College
London
|
6.5
|
|
London School of
Economics (LSE)
|
7
|
|
University College
London (UCL)
|
6.5
|
|
|
University of Toronto
|
6.5
|
|
McGill University
|
6.5
|
|
University of British
Columbia
|
6.5
|
|
University of Waterloo
|
6
|
|
University of Montreal
|
6
|
Countries accepting IELTS for various purposes
Apart from education, IELTS is widely used for immigration and professional licensing. Below are the IELTS exam accepting countries categorized by purpose.
Countries that accept IELTs for immigration
Here are the top countries where IELTS is required for immigration:
Canada: Express Entry, PNP, and work visas
Australia: Skilled migration and employer-sponsored visas
UK: UKVI IELTS required for work visas
New Zealand: Points-based immigration system
Ireland: Some work permits require IELTS
Countries accepting IELTS 5.5 band
If you’re wondering which country accepts IELTS 5.5 band, here’s a list:
Canada: Some diploma programs
UK: Foundation and pathway programs
Australia: Vocational courses
New Zealand: Private colleges
Ireland: Language courses
Countries accepting IELTS 5.5 band for PR
Not all countries accept a 5.5 band for PR, but some do. Which country accept IELTS 5.5 band for PR?
Canada: Certain Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)
Australia: Regional work visas
New Zealand: Employer-sponsored visas
Countries where IELTS is not required
There are countries which accept IELTS but also allow applications without it under certain conditions. Here is the answer for which country accept without IELTS exam?
Germany: Some universities accept Medium of Instruction (MOI) proof
Malaysia: Other English proficiency tests accepted
Norway: IELTS waivers for English-taught programs
IELTS accepted countries for nurses
The IELTS accepted countries list for nurses includes:
UK: IELTS 7.0 (NMC registration)
Canada: IELTS 7.0 (Healthcare pathway)
Australia: IELTS 7.0 (Nursing board requirement)
Ireland: IELTS 7.0 (NMBI requirement)
Conclusion:-
Understanding IELTS-accepted countries is crucial for students and professionals aiming to study or work abroad. Whether you’re seeking academic excellence or career growth, knowing the required IELTS score can help you plan effectively.
By consulting with
LEAMSS, you’ll receive expert guidance on IELTS requirements, study abroad opportunities, and immigration pathways. Start your journey today with LEAMSS, your trusted partner in global education and migration.
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