IELTS is a standard English proficiency test required for admission to many study abroad destinations, including the UK. However, those who do not want to take the IELTS can apply to universities that waive IELTS exams.
UK colleges without IELTS have their own admission criteria. Let’s understand how you can study at UK universities without IELTS and the alternative ways to prove English language proficiency.
Key highlights:
- What Does UK Universities Without IELTS Mean?
- Best Universities in the UK Without IELTS
- Things to Keep in Mind: UK Universities Without IELTS for Indian Students
- Documents Required to Study in UK Universities Without IELTS
- How to Apply to Universities in the UK Without IELTS
What Does UK Universities Without IELTS Mean?
IELTS English language test assesses an individual’s proficiency level based on listening, reading, speaking, and writing. UK universities that do not require IELTS means applying to universities in the UK that admit overseas students without requiring an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam score. These universities have their own criteria to assess English language proficiency, so it is important to check their admission guidelines. However, some options include completing a study programme taught in English, taking alternative tests, or participating in online interviews.
Best Universities in the UK Without IELTS
Here is the top 10 UK university list without IELTS:
- University of Bristol
- University of Warwick
- Swansea University
- Aston University
- Northumbria University
- University of Portsmouth
- University of Plymouth
- University of Greenwich
- London Southbank University
- Robert Gordon University
Things to Keep in Mind: UK Universities Without IELTS for Indian Students
Students aspiring to pursue education at a university without IELTS in the UK can explore alternative pathways to demonstrate their English proficiency.
- Medium of Instruction (MOI) Certificate from Previous Institution: Students who have completed their education in an English-medium institution may qualify for admission to UK universities without IELTS. To prove proficiency in English, provide an MOI certificate from your previous institution.
- High Scores in Class 12th English: Universities in the UK offering admission without IELTS require scores of more than 70% in English from CBSE, ICSE, or other similar boards.
- Online Interviews: Some universities may conduct online interviews to assess your English communication skills.
- Alternative English Proficiency Tests: There are other alternative English tests, like Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), Pearson Test of English (PTE), Duolingo English Test (DET) or Cambridge English Qualifications, that you can take to prove your English language skills, even for UK universities without IELTS for master’s.
Documents Required to Study in UK Universities Without IELTS
Here is the list of documents required to get admission to universities without IELTS in the UK.
- 10th and 12th mark sheets are required for admission to undergraduate courses.
- Bachelor’s degree mark sheets to get admission in UK universities for masters without IELTS.
- A valid passport
- Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate
- Academic transcripts
- Letter of Recommendation
- Statement of Purpose
- Updated resume
- Experience letter (if any)
- Proof of funds

Also Read: Cost of Living in the UK for International Students
How to Apply to Universities in the UK Without IELTS
You can study in the UK without IELTS, provided you follow the right steps and meet the alternative requirements. Here are the steps to follow for the application process:
Shortlist Without IELTS Universities in the UK
Start by researching and shortlisting the UK universities that waive IELTS. Look for universities that require you to complete the study programme taught in English or appear for online interviews.
Prepare Necessary Documents
To skip IELTS, you need the necessary documents to support your application, including academic transcripts, LOR, SOP, financial proof, and particularly the Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate, alternative English test scores, and mark sheets that demonstrate English proficiency.
Prepare for Interviews and other assessments
You may have to prepare for online university interviews, demonstrating your English-speaking skills. For instance, universities such as the University of the West of England and Coventry University have designed university-specific English language tests.
Submit Applications
Apply through the university’s online portal and upload all the required documents. You must highlight the alternative English proficiency proof.
Studying at universities that do not require IELTS in the UK is possible through alternative assessments, interviews and English scores from previous institutions. Whether you study in the UK or at another destination, education is an expensive affair. At Avanse Financial Services, we believe that aspirants should focus on academic excellence without financial stress.
Therefore, we provide loan for study abroad programmes, covering up to 100% finance and quick sanctions. You can use our EMI education loan calculator to better understand your estimated EMIs. Let us help you study in the UK without any financial worries! If you have any questions, please contact us today.