Top UK Universities That Accept International Students Without IELTS

28 July 2025

For most Indian students who aspire to study in the UK, the idea of studying and performing well in the IELTS exam might seem like a huge load. But here is the best part — quite a few UK universities have now relaxed their English language requirements. In 2025, increasing numbers of universities will welcome international students without requesting an IELTS score. They rather accept other proof such as medium of instruction (MOI) letters, Class 12 English marks, or other such English proficiency certificates that are real.

This transformation has facilitated and accelerated students’ applications, particularly those previously educated in English-medium colleges or who earned certificates in English. This also spares the additional effort and expense of IELTS preparation. If you are someone who is comfortable with your English abilities but never took the IELTS, there are plenty of excellent UK universities eager to embrace you.

At BCES Admissions Abroad, we’ve helped hundreds of students successfully get admission into top UK universities without IELTS. Based on the latest updates and university admissions trends, here are some of the best options for you.

University of Portsmouth

University of Portsmouth welcomes Indian students without IELTS if they have a minimum of 65% marks in English in their CBSE or ISC Class 12 board examinations. University of Portsmouth has high student satisfaction and career-oriented courses.

University of Plymouth

This seaside university is open to students who are able to offer a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate stating as a prerequisite that their prior studies were in English. The university also offers international students personalized academic guidance and English classes upon arrival if necessary.

University of Bolton

Bolton is most favored among Indian students due to its low fee structure and relaxed English requirements. So long as you have formerly studied your former qualification in English, the university can exempt you completely from IELTS requirements.

London South Bank University

This London university welcomes CBSE and ICSE board students who have a good English score and can even consider MOI letters. It is an ideal choice for those who wish to study practically in the UK capital.

University of Central Lancashire (UCLan)

UCLan enables students to create an MOI letter and even possesses an internal English language test as an alternative to IELTS. UCLan has excellent employability support and inclusive learning.

Sheffield Hallam University

One of the leading universities that offers waivers of IELTS to Indian students based on successful English grades in Class 12. The university places high importance on employability skills and industry connections, thus the best choice for career-focused students.

Northumbria University

Based in Newcastle, Northumbria accepts other English qualifications in lieu of IELTS, e.g., MOI or as an English high school subject. They also provide pre-sessional English if necessary.

What You Need Instead of IELTS in 2025

• Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter from your current or previous institution
• Class 12 English mark higher than a specific percentage (usually 65% and above in CBSE or ISC)
• Other English tests such as Duolingo, PTE, or university internal tests
• Completion of a UK-approved pre-sessional English course

Tips for Applicants

• Always check the specific university and course requirements as they may vary
• Prepare your MOI letter in advance, with proper signatures and official stamps
• Mention your English proficiency during your Statement of Purpose (SOP) or personal interview
• Consider universities that offer in-house English tests if you’re unsure about MOI acceptance

At BCES Admissions Abroad, we facilitate admissions for students, and they can easily approach UK universities without IELTS problems. Call us now at +91 9319996328 and start your path of studying in the UK without wasting any more time.