Cambridge English exams for UK university applications

UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) made important changes to the English language requirements for overseas students in 2015.

Following these changes, some students wishing to study on courses below degree level (e.g. foundation and pathway courses) are required to take a Secure English Language Test (SELT), such as IELTS for UKVI, as part of their visa application.

However, most students applying for degree-level study or higher (e.g. undergraduate and postgraduate courses) do not need to take a SELT, but instead have to meet the English language requirements of the institution they apply to. Almost all UK universities accept Cambridge English: Advanced and Cambridge English: Proficiency for entrance purposes.

Which Cambridge English exams can you use?

Check the quick guide below to see if you need a student visa or SELT, and find out which Cambridge English exam is best to help you apply to study in the UK.

Are you a student from:

The EU, EEA or Switzerland?	No visa required.	You must meet the English language requirements of the institution you apply to. Almost all UK universities accept Cambridge English: Advanced and Cambridge English: Proficiency. Cambridge English: First is also accepted for foundation and pathway courses. Find an exam centre
Outside the EU, EEA or Switzerland, studying at below degree level?	Visa required – students must take a SELT.	We recommend IELTS for UKVI. Find an IELTS for UKVI test centre
Outside the EU, EEA or Switzerland, studying at degree level or higher?	Visa – but no SELT required.	You must achieve a minimum B2 level of English and meet the English language requirements of the institution you apply to*. Almost all UK universities accept Cambridge English: Advanced and Cambridge English: Proficiency. Find an exam centre
A citizen of a country where English is spoken as an official language?	Visa may be needed – but no SELT required.	The institution you apply to may still ask you to meet its English language requirements – check with your chosen university. Almost all UK universities accept Cambridge English: Advanced and Cambridge English: Proficiency Find an exam centre
* This applies to institutions on the Tier 4 Register of Sponsors. Nearly all UK universities are on this list – check if yours is here. If it isn't, you will need to take a SELT

Find out more

Read more about language tests for UK Visas and Immigration – download our FAQs.
Download the UK university admissions postcard.
Learn more about studying in the UK.
Check the UK Visas and Immigration website for the latest information and requirements.

See which Cambridge English exams your chosen UK university accepts.