IELTS for a UK student visa
What English a UK Student visa needs: CEFR B2 for a degree, B1 below it, when IELTS Academic is enough and when you need IELTS for UKVI.
The band you need
| For | Test | Overall | Each skill |
|---|---|---|---|
| Degree level and aboveA university may assess your English itself, often with IELTS Academic; the level must still be B2. | IELTS Academic | CEFR B2 | Set by the university |
| Degree level, if the university asks for a SELT | IELTS for UKVI (Academic) | CEFR B2 | Set by the university |
| Below degree levelA Secure English Language Test (SELT) is needed. | IELTS for UKVI (Academic) | CEFR B1 | Set by the college |
Checked 29 October 2026 against the sources below. Requirements change, and your university or employer may ask for more: confirm with them before you book.
A practice plan
- Find your course's IELTS requirement on its page: universities set the overall band and the lowest band allowed in each skill.
- Ask the university whether it accepts IELTS Academic or wants IELTS for UKVI. Book the one it names.
- Take the free placement test to see how far you are from that band, then practise the weakest skill first.
- Sit at least two full mock tests under real timing in the last month, and check every essay against the band you need.
Start here
Questions
Do I need IELTS for UKVI for a UK university?
Not always. For degree-level study a university can assess your English itself, and many accept IELTS Academic. Below degree level you need a Secure English Language Test, such as IELTS for UKVI. Ask your university which it accepts.
What IELTS band is CEFR B2?
The visa rules state CEFR levels, not IELTS bands. Your university's offer gives the IELTS band it wants, which is what you need to meet.
How much does IELTS cost in Bangladesh?
IDP Bangladesh lists IELTS on Computer (Academic or General Training) at BDT 31,100 and IELTS for UKVI at BDT 34,850, and a One Skill Retake at BDT 18,600. Check the current fee when you book.