Want To Know Eligibility For The IELTS Exam?
The candidate must be at least 16 years old
No education qualification is required to appear for the Test
Introduction
IELTS eligibility criteria are not rigidly defined by the British Council or IDP. The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) assesses the English proficiency of individuals aspiring to study abroad. Eligibility for the IELTS exam depends on university admission guidelines, as each institution sets its own criteria for enrollment. Typically, top universities require a minimum band score of 6.0-6.5 in each section. Additionally, candidates older than 16 years of age can appear for the test. Also, there is no educational qualification requirement to appear for the IELTS Exam. although specific age requirements may vary depending on the institution.
IELTS Exam Eligibility Age Limit
There is no particular age limit mentioned to appear for the IELTS exam, but the candidate must be at least 16 years old to register for the test On the other hand, the upper limit for the same is not set. Therefore, an aspirant is free to apply for IELTS at any age more than 16 years and pursue their dream of studying abroad without any age barrier.
IELTS Eligible Countries
When looking forward to studying overseas, you might see IELTS as a basic requirement. But there are some countries where aspirants need to take different exams. So, the major countries where IELTS is a requisite are the UK, USA, Canada and Australia. Moreover, there are numerous universities in these destinations where the IELTS requirements for the scores differ. However, there is a borderline of the scores that several universities require as a selection criteria. Thus, to give you a clear direction of the minimum scores, here is the classification.
IELTS Eligibility Scores for Top Universities in the UK
Here is the minimum band score required for studying abroad in some of the top universities in the UK, helping you understand the English proficiency expectations for a successful academic journey.
| UNIVERSITY NAME | APPROX. BAND REQUIREMENT |
|---|---|
| BIRMINGHAM CITY UNIVERSITY | 5.5-6.0 |
| UNIVERSITY COLLEGE LONDON | 6.5 |
| UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD | 7.0-7.5 |
| IMPERIAL COLLEGE LONDON | 7 |
| UNIVERSITY OF CAMBRIDGE | 7 |
IELTS Eligibility Scores for Top Universities in the USA
To help you understand the score requirements of the USA for studying abroad. The table given below consists of the minimum band score required for admission in the top universities in the USA
| UNIVERSITY NAME | APPROX. BAND REQUIREMENT |
|---|---|
| ATHENS STATE UNIVERSITY | 7 |
| MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY | 7 |
| HARVARD UNIVERSITY | 7 |
| YALE UNIVERSITY | 7 |
| CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY | 7 |
IELTS Eligibility Scores for Top Universities in Canada
In the table below, find out the minimum band score required to study in the top Canadian universities. Hence, it will help you to understand the English proficiency level for the admission requirement.
| UNIVERSITY NAME | APPROX. BAND REQUIREMENT |
|---|---|
| CAPE BRETON UNIVERSITY | 6.5 |
| UNIVERSITY OF ALBERTA | 6.5 |
| MCMASTER UNIVERSITY | 6.5 |
| UNIVERSITY OF TORONTO | 6.5-7.0 |
| UNIVERSITY OF BRITISH COLUMBIA | 6.5 |
IELTS Eligibility Scores for Top Universities in Australia
In order to help you understand the English proficiency requirement for getting admission in top universities in Australia, check the table given below to know the minimum band score required for studying in Australia.
| UNIVERSITY NAME | APPROX. BAND REQUIREMENT |
|---|---|
| QUT GARDEN POINT CAMPUS | 6.0 |
| UNIVERSITY OF QUEENSLAND | 6.5 |
| UNIVERSITY OF SYDNEY | 6.5 |
| UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH WALES | 6.0 |
| UNIVERSITY OF MELBOURNE | 6.5 |
These are the approximate scores needed by the leading universities in different countries. However, the scores as per IELTS requirements might vary according to the updates in the guidelines. But one thing remains the same: the higher the score, the increased the chances of getting admission.
Who Sets The IELTS Eligibility Criteria?
IELTS is owned and run by the British Council, IDP and Cambridge Assessment English. Thus, these organisational bodies take all the major decisions regarding the IELTS eligibility criteria. Moreover, there are several things to take into consideration when marking the exam results. These IELTS requirements must be considered by the aspirants looking forward to studying or working abroad in different countries. It is because there are two types of IELTS exams: General and Academic.
Education Qualifications For IELTS Eligibility?
There are no specific educational qualifications to appear for the IELTS Exam. Thus, anyone is competent to appear for the IELTS exam, irrespective of academic background, country, university, or anything else. Therefore, the only major thing to keep in mind is the difficulty level of the test. Moreover, if you are more than 16 years old with a valid passport and zeal to crack the IELTS, no one can stop you from appearing for the same.
IELTS Scholarship Eligibility For Aspirants
One of the greatest perks of scoring well in IELTS is becoming eligible for scholarships. As one of the organisational committees - The British Council has various awards for students around the world with good academic performance. These scholarships are accepted by any university that takes IELTS as the entrance test. Moreover, the IELTS qualification or the scores might vary according to the institute or the country to which the aspirants are applying. But the good thing is that with higher scores, aspirants are eligible to take benefits of the awards and reduce their financial load. Thus, to score well in the test and win a scholarship, you can refer to the online IELTS courses to have your hands on the entire thing.
Is IELTS Eligibility For Both The Versions Same?
The answer to the question is a yes. It means whichever version an aspirant is appearing for the IELTS, the eligibility will remain the same. However, there are two versions of the IELTS i.e. Academic and General. Scholars aspiring to pursue studies abroad appear for the IELTS Academic exam. On the other hand, the IELTS General is for aspirants who want to migrate to other countries for work purposes. But, no matter what the purpose of appearing for the test is, the eligibility for IELTS exam remains the same.
IELTS Eligibility Concerning The Required Documents
Yes, there are IELTS eligibility criteria for the students appearing for the test. For this, a valid passport is the major document required. Moreover, this is to ensure proper identification of the candidate. However, a driver's licence, student ID, and any other document is not considered proof of the same. Besides this, the passport must be valid for up to 6 months and have 2 blank pages as well.
Conclusion
To conclude, there are no strict requirements that automatically qualify you for the test but it's important to verify specific requirements with the university or country where you intend to study beforehand. With a valid passport and proper preparation, you're prepared to take the test. You are welcome to reach out to experts at Gradding if you have any further questions or concern
Buy Mock Test Package and get Flat 50% OFF
Reach the Desired Scores and Stand on Top with the Best Guidance. Talk to Experts for ielts Counselling!
Predict Your IELTS Band Score forFree with our Band Predictor Tool!
Analyze Your Module-wise Preparation
100+ Mock Tests by Expert IELTS Faculty
Meet The Students Who Got 8+ Band in IELTS With Gradding’s Expert Guidance
Before
5
after
8
Gradding transformed my IELTS journey. Before seeking their help, I struggled to break past a 5 Band score. However, with their guidance, I achieved an impressive 8+ Band score on my exam.
Vishal Rathore
University of Warwick
Before
5.5
after
7
I owe my success in the IELTS exam to Gradding. Their tailored approach and comprehensive study materials helped me elevate my score from a 5.5 Band to an outstanding 7+ Band.
Jagjeet singh Rathore
University of East London
Before
6
after
7
Gradding's assistance was invaluable in my IELTS preparation. Their insightful feedback and targeted practice sessions helped me achieve a good Band score. Thank you, Gradding!
Parmish Verma
University of South Alabama
Before
6
after
7.5
I can't thank Gradding enough for their exceptional guidance in my IELTS journey. With their expert advice and rigorous training, I exceeded my previous Band score.
Rahul Sharma
University of Queensland
Before
6
after
8
Gradding truly exceeded my expectations. Before joining, I struggled to achieve a Band 5 score. However, their personalized approach helped me secure a remarkable 8+ Band score in the exam.
Vishal Sharma
Birmingham City University
Before
6
after
7
My experience with Gradding was phenomenal. Their dedicated tutors and comprehensive study materials empowered me to raise my IELTS score. I'm immensely grateful for their support and guidance.
Jagjeet singh Rathore
Hodges University
Frequently Asked Questions
NO! The eligibility for the IELTS test does not differ in various parts of the world. Thus, it is open to all individuals who wish to prove their English language skills.
There is no minimum age requirement for the IELTS test. However, the IELTS exam is recommended for candidates who are 16 years of age or older.
NO! To take the IELTS exam, you do not need any type of proficiency. However, this test is designed to evaluate your language skills, so having some skills can be beneficial.
NO! There is no difference between IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training. The difference is the purpose for which you need to take the test. This is study abroad, work or immigration.
NO! There are no restrictions to register for the IELTS test based on the nation you are from. So anyone can take the test despite the country they hail from.
Claim free IELTS Classes now!
We will help you secure admission in Top Universities Abroad with Completely FREE IELTS Coaching
Still Confused About Your Eligibility for IELTS?
Chat With Our Expert