Study in the United Kingdom Without IELTS

04 August 2025

Want to study in the UK but concerned about the IELTS requirement? You’re not alone. International students, particularly from India, typically look for UK universities with no IELTS requirement. The good news is that many of the best UK universities now offer alternative English language tests or exemptions for deserving students. These developments bring the UK even closer to international talent.

Even if you’ve received your education in English-medium schools, taken alternative English tests, or taken pre-qualifications in English, certain institutions will judge your suitability in other ways. We at BCES Admissions Abroad guide students in identifying the right route, even if they haven’t taken IELTS.

Below, we present the best UK universities that accept international students without IELTS, as well as the accepted alternatives and requirements.

Top UK Universities That Accept Students Without IELTS

1. University of Law

University of Law accepts applications from international students who have studied their previous degrees in the English language or have studied at institutions where English was the predominant language of study. In other circumstances, they accept a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter as evidence. Moreover, the university performs internal English tests in some circumstances.

2. Regent College London

Regent College London has a policy of open entry. Students who have previously studied in English, or who possess a recent qualification with English content, may be exempt from taking IELTS. They also provide internal English language assistance prior to the course.

3. University of Leicester

University of Leicester also accepts applications for Indian students who score a minimum of 70% in English in their 12th grade CBSE or ISC. For other alternate board students, additional tests may be required; the IELTS is not necessarily required, however.

4. Aberystwyth University

Wales-based Aberystwyth University provides scope for students who have completed their studies in English or have cleared a UKVI-approved foundation programme. English language qualifications are also accepted by the university from national education authorities in countries like India.

5. University of Gloucestershire

They are able to apply without IELTS to the University of Gloucestershire if they have an English qualification or excel in English at school. They also offer internal language testing if needed.

6. University of Plymouth

Plymouth provides conditional admission on school-level English or MOI letters. Applicants can also be invited for a pre-sessional English course in place of IELTS.

7. University of Portsmouth

Portsmouth accepts students who have finished their studies in English. They accept CBSE, ICSE, and a few of the state boards of India for entry in the English language. MOI and internal exams are some other options.

8. Robert Gordon University

RGU in Scotland has different English language paths. They can accept a Medium of Instruction certificate or examine English through internal tests. They also provide language assistance to international students.

9. University of Greenwich

Indian students who have studied English or scored well in English in Grade 12 (typically 70% or above) don’t need IELTS. Greenwich also provides pre-sessional English courses for extra help.

10. Northumbria University

The university accepts secondary scores in English or a letter of Medium of Instruction as exemption criteria for the IELTS requirement. They also provide other tests or online English courses for those who require alternative measures for fulfilling the requirement for language proficiency.

Most Popular IELTS Alternatives in the UK

• Some of the well-accepted alternatives to IELTS in 2025 are as follows:
• Medium of Instruction (MOI) Letter from previous institution
• Secondary English Achievement (e.g., 70% in ICSE/CBSE English)
• An in-house English test administered by the university.
• Internet English Competency Tests (e.g., Duolingo or Password English Test)
• Successful completion of a Pre-sessional English Course at the university.

Why Select the UK Without IELTS

Fast-Track Admission Process: Removal of IELTS test scheduling delays.

Less Expensive: Makes testing fees cheaper.

Flexible Requirements: Universities evaluate students holistically

Language Support Opportunity: Most provide English instruction on campus

BCES Admissions Abroad has made admission in the UK without IELTS for numerous students possible. We have professional counsellors who are available to guide you through shortlisting universities, documentation, writing SOP, and visa processing under one umbrella. Get in touch with BCES Admissions Abroad today at +91 9319996328 and begin your path to a British degree without the hassle of IELTS.