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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.
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:
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?
We recommend IELTS for UKVI.
Find an IELTS for UKVI test centre
Outside the EU, EEA or Switzerland, studying at degree level or higher?
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.
A citizen of a country where English is spoken as an official language?
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
See which Cambridge English exams your chosen UK university accepts.