What is the minimum IELTS score to study in the UK?
Most universities require 6.0 overall, with no band below 5.5. Some programs require higher.
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Requirements to Study in the UK for International Students (2025 Guide)
Why Study in the UK?
The UK is a top destination for international students from Sri Lanka and across the globe. With prestigious universities like Oxford, Cambridge, and over 160 institutions offering globally recognized degrees, it's a launchpad to world-class careers.
But before you pack your bags, you need to understand the complete requirements to study in the UK as an international student — from academic qualifications and English tests to visa rules and financial documents.
If you're wondering whether you need IELTS, explore study in UK without IELTS as an alternative option.
Basic Eligibility Criteria to Study in the UK
To gain admission into a UK university, you typically need to meet the following requirements:
| Level of Study | Academic Requirement | English Language |
| Foundation | O/Ls with minimum grades | IELTS 5.0 – 5.5 or equivalent |
| Undergraduate | A/Ls with minimum 3 passes | IELTS 6.0 – 6.5 (or equivalent test score) |
| Postgraduate | Recognised Bachelor's degree (2:2 or above) | IELTS 6.5+ or equivalent (e.g., TOEFL, PTE) |
| PhD | Master's + research proposal | IELTS 6.5 – 7.0 |
Some universities accept MOI (Medium of Instruction) letters instead of IELTS. Want to skip IELTS? Read this: Study in UK without IELTS
Popular Courses for Sri Lankan Students in the UK
- Business and Management
- Engineering and IT
- Law and International Relations
- Medicine and Healthcare
- Data Science and AI
- Accounting & Finance
Thinking commerce or accounting? Check CA course details after 12th if you're considering local vs. global options.
English Language Requirements to Study in the UK
Most universities accept:
- IELTS Academic
- TOEFL iBT
- PTE Academic
- Cambridge Advanced English (CAE)
✅ Minimum band score: 6.0 – 6.5 overall
✅ No band less than 5.5 – varies by course & university
Don't want to take IELTS? Some UK universities accept:
- ✅ MOI letters (Medium of Instruction)
- ✅ Internal placement tests
- ✅ Online interviews
Find out more about studying in the UK without IELTS.
Documents Required for UK Student Visa (Tier 4 / Student Route)
Here's what you'll need to apply for a UK student visa:
- Valid Passport
- CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) letter from UK university
- Proof of Funds (minimum £1,023/month for 9 months outside London)
- Academic transcripts
- English language test score
- TB Test Report (if required for Sri Lanka)
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) receipt
How to Apply to a UK University (Step-by-Step)
UK Student Visa Requirements (2025)
To apply for a UK Student Visa, you must:
- Hold an unconditional offer from a licensed sponsor
- Have CAS letter
- Show proof of sufficient funds
- Meet English language proficiency
- Pay Immigration Health Surcharge (~£470/year)
You may also work part-time (20 hours/week) during term time and full-time during holidays. Learn more about part-time jobs in Australia for comparison.
Can I Stay in the UK After Graduation?
Yes! With the UK's Graduate Route Visa, international students can stay and work for up to:
- 2 years (Bachelor's or Master's)
- 3 years (PhD)
This makes the UK a great option not just to study, but to start your career. Want similar options elsewhere? Explore Canada student visa options or PR while studying in Canada.
Conclusion
Studying in the UK offers global exposure, world-class education, and excellent career prospects — but meeting the requirements is the first step.
Whether you're preparing for A/Ls or already exploring your university list, AECC can guide you through the entire process — from shortlisting universities to applying for a student visa.
Ready to start your UK study journey?
Book a free consultation with AECC today.
