IELTS Requirements for UK Visas - Student, Skilled Worker & Settlement

B2 minimum; all components must meet floor

• The UK Student Visa requires IELTS for UKVI (Academic) - standard IELTS is not accepted.
• Minimum requirement is B2 level: IELTS 5.5 in each component for most degree programmes.
• Russell Group universities typically require 6.5-7.0 (equivalent to CEFR C1).
• Pre-sessional English programmes can allow entry with Band 5.5 followed by a language course.
• The Graduate Route visa (2 years work) follows automatically after degree completion - no IELTS needed for that step.

Processing time: 3-8 weeks

B1 level - minimum requirement

• Requires B1 English (CEFR) = IELTS 4.0 in each component.
• IELTS for UKVI (Academic or General Training) required - not standard IELTS.
• NHS and healthcare workers may have occupation-specific higher requirements.
• If you studied in a majority English-speaking country, you may be exempt.
• Citizens of countries on the "exempt list" (e.g., USA, Canada, Australia) do not need to demonstrate English.

Processing time: 3-8 weeks

B1 speaking and listening - Life in the UK test also required

• ILR requires B1 English in speaking and listening only (Life in the UK test also mandatory).
• Most applicants use IELTS Life Skills B1 (a separate test) rather than full IELTS.
• If you passed IELTS at B2+ level for your original visa, it may satisfy the B1 requirement.
• British citizenship requires a further B1 proof if not already evidenced.

Processing time: 6-12 months