English language requirements
The United Kingdom Border Agency (UKBA) has recently introduced new regulations concerning English language qualifications. These regulations require all applicants entering into the UK with a Tier 4 visa to reach a minimum standard in English.
The new rules state that applicants wishing to study at degree level must have achieved a B2 level in each of the four language components. More information about these changes are available from the UKBA.
With immediate effect the University minimum English Language requirements have been amended to reflect this change.
If you have already applied to the University, see our FAQs for further information.
Minimum requirements
The UKBA's minimum English language requirements are:
- IELTS: 6.0 (in the 'Academic' test)
- Listening – 5.5
- Speaking – 5.5
- Reading – 5.5
- Writing – 5.5
- TOEFL: internet-based (iBT) 87
- Listening – 21
- Speaking – 23
- Reading – 22
- Writing – 21
It is important to note that whilst you have to reach these minimum scores for visa purposes all of our postgraduate programmes have higher minimum requirements of at least IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6 in each component and many require 7.0 with 6.5 or 7.0 in each component.
You must provide confirmation of all test results.
Only English language tests taken up to two years prior to the date that you are due to start your studies are valid for entrance purposes.
Check the requirements for individual courses in the postgraduate prospectus.
Equivalent grades
The table below shows the equivalent grades for the IELTS, TOEFL and Cambridge Certificate examinations.
| IELTS | TOEFL | Cambridge Certificate | |
| IELTS 6.0 | With no less than 6.0 in the writing element and no less than 5.5 in each other component |
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| IELTS 6.5 | With no less than 6.0 in each component |
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| IELTS 7 | No less than 6.5 in each component. Some programmes require 7.0 in each component. |
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Pre-sessional English language programmes
Applicants who need to improve their English language skills may be able to attend a pre-sessional course during the summer with the English Language Centre.
