UK Universities Without IELTS | All You Need to Know

UK Universities Without IELTS

Are there UK universities without IELTS? Studying abroad sounds pretty appealing, doesn’t it? Studying abroad offers numerous benefits such as exploring a new country, engaging in diverse cultural experiences, making friends from around the world, and receiving top-notch education. It’s quite the appeal.

But then, you’re thinking about all the things that must be put in place before this dream becomes reality. Finances, visa applications, interviews, and the almighty IELTS.

Your dream study destination is the UK, and already you’re searching for UK universities without IELTS. At least that would ease the stress of sitting for an exam. 

You’re in luck, because today we’ll be disclosing some UK universities without IELTS. From the best UK universities without IELTS, to the cheapest UK universities without IELTS, and UK universities without IELTS for Masters, our conversation today will equip you with all you need to know about gaining admission in the UK without writing IELTS! 

Table of Contents

Can You Really Study in the UK Without IELTS? 

Yes! It’s absolutely possible to study in the UK without taking the IELTS! Many UK universities now offer alternative tests for non-native English speakers, like TOEFL, PTE Academic, or even internal university tests.

Also read: TOEFL vs IELTS | All You Need to Know

You might also be asked to submit a proof of English proficiency letter from your previous school, employer, or such other reference. 

Some schools might even waive the English test requirement entirely if you’ve studied English as an undergraduate or your entire education was taught in English. 

Always remember to confirm the specific requirements of the school you’re applying to. 

Best Universities in the UK Without IELTS

Best UK Universities Without IELTS

Okay, we’ve agreed that you can study in the UK without IELTS, but can you still get into the best universities? It seems too good to be true, right? 

The truth is, Ivy League schools like Cambridge and Oxford may not consider international students without IELTS. The competition there is tough, and you must go beyond the barest minimum to get in. 

Nevertheless, you can still get into some of the best universities in the UK without IELTS, which we shall uncover in this section. 

Best Universities in the UK Without IELTS #1: University of Bristol

The University of Bristol is a cutting-edge research university that has produced Nobel Laureates and several other recipients of global awards.

It is ranked among the top 100 universities in the world, and among the UK’s top ten. It has also been credited as one of the top five (5) universities for research by the Research Excellence Framework (REF). 

Also read: How to Study in the USA without IELTS

With these attributes, the University of Bristol stands as one of the best universities in the UK without IELTS. So if you’re looking to ditch the IELTS and still go for excellence, the University of Bristol is a solid choice. 

Best Universities in the UK Without IELTS #2: University of Central Lancashire 

Founded in 1828, the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) was named by Edufuturists as the Best University of the Year (2023) for their innovation and progressive learning approaches. 

UCLan’s campuses are situated in Preston, Burnley, Westlakes, and London. With over 350 undergraduate programs and about 200 graduate programs, UCLan remains one of the largest universities in the UK, and you can get into it without taking the IELTS! 

UCLan’s Alternative English proficiency tests include the Cambridge English Test, the European Baccalaureate, the International Baccalaureate, O Level / I GCSE, TOEFL, the English Language Level Test by the Oxford International English Test Centre, etc. 

Best Universities in the UK Without IELTS #3: University of Portsmouth

The University of Portsmouth is one of the leading public universities in the UK, with over 28,000 students enrolled. 

Rated among the top 500 universities in the world by the Times Higher Education World University, Portsmouth boasts of a variety of disciplines, a strong history, and a solid academic experience. 

Whether you’re going for an undergraduate or a postgraduate program, Portsmouth is one of the best universities in the UK without IELTS.

Also read: 15 Cheapest Schools in Canada for International Students

Best Universities in the UK Without IELTS #4: University of Warwick 

The University of Warwick is ranked 10th in the UK in the QS World University Rankings 2024 and 67th globally, positioning it within the global top 5% of universities. 

Despite its high rankings, it remains affordable, even for international students. Undergraduate tuition fees range from £9,250, and graduate programs can be as low as £3,723 (part-time). 

Warwick boasts of over 29,000 students and is located just outside Coventry city centre. As one of the best universities in the UK without IELTS, Warwick accepts alternative English tests like GCSE English, PTE, and the International Baccalaureate English courses.

Best Universities in the UK Without IELTS #5: Swansea University

Boasting of several awards and recognitions, including the Welsh University of the Year (2025), Swansea University is a leading university in the UK, ranking among the top 350 in the world by Times Higher Education World University. 

Swansea University has two campuses along Swansea Bay: Singleton Park site and Bay Campus, and their medical school ranks 4th in the UK. 

Acceptable English language tests in the university besides IELTS include PTE Home, Oxford English Language Level Test, Cambridge English, WASSC (Gambia and Ghana only), etc. 

Students who do not meet the required score for each test might still be considered for admission, on the condition that they take the university’s English Language pre-sessional program, the Swansea English Language Test (SWELT). 

Learn more about Swansea’s English language requirements for international students here.

Also read: 10 Best Colleges for Soccer Scholarships

Cheapest Universities in the UK Without IELTS 

Studying in the UK as an international student can be quite daunting financially. However, it comes with an assurance of quality, reputable education that can place you on the global stage. 

Aside from applying for scholarships and funding to ease the financial burden, you can also consider some of the cheapest universities in the UK without IELTS!

Despite their affordable fees, these universities remain globally accredited, offering students a balance of world-class education and a rich campus experience. 

Let’s explore some of these cheapest universities in the UK without IELTS:

A Table Showing Some of The Cheapest Universities in The UK without IELTS

No. Cheapest Universities in UK Without IELTSTuition Range Per YearAlternative English Test System 
1.University of Portsmouth£16,200 – £19,200TOEFL, PTE, ECPE, Oxford ELLT, etc. 
2.Swansea University Learn moreJoint CAS, Single CAS, pre-sessional courses 
3.University of Northampton Learn more GCSE, iGCSE, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT
4.University of Bolton From £15,950IGCSE English, TOEFL iBT, Cambridge Advanced English, Duolingo 
5.University of West London Learn MoreCambridge B2 First / C1 Advanced, Duolingo, TOEFL iBT
6.University of Greenwich From £17,500 for full time Cambridge First, Duolingo
7.De Montfort University Learn more Any equivalent of IELTS score 5.0, Pre-sessional courses
8.University of Essex From £20,475TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic (not online), Trinity College London ISE
9.Birmingham City University Learn moreTOEFL iBT, PTE Academic (not online), LanguageCert Academic (SELT only), Cambridge C1 Advanced, Cambridge C1 Proficiency
10.Staffordshire UniversityFrom £16,750PTE Academic, LanguageCert Academic SELT, TOEFL iBT, Trinity College London ISE II

Note that the alternative English tests mentioned in the table above are a summary of what each school accepts. Visit each school’s website to see a full list of other English proficiency tests that they may accept besides the IELTS. 

Also read: What is the Best SAT Prep Book?

Would you like to discover even more cheap universities in the UK without IELTS? Then read more in our article, 15 Cheapest Schools in the UK for International Students. 

UK Universities Without IELTS for Masters 

Looking to do your masters in the UK as an international student? 

You can start your journey now without having to sit for IELTS! Here are some affordable universities in the UK that don’t necessarily require IELTS for master’s programs: 

UK Universities Without IELTS and Application Fee

Are there really schools you can get into without having to pay an application fee? The truth is…yes, there are! 

Here are some UK universities without IELTS and application fees:

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Go to the UK Without IELTS for Work?

Yes, you can work in the UK without IELTS, provided it is not required specifically by your employer. If it’s required during your visa application process, you can also submit other UKGov-approved Secured English Language Test (SELT) results, such as LANGUAGECERT, Pearson, and PSI Services (UK) Ltd.

Can I Apply to UK Universities Without IELTS? 

Yes! There are lots of universities in the UK that you can apply to without IELTS. 

Which is the Cheapest University in the UK Without IELTS?

One of the cheapest universities in the UK without IELTS is the University of Portsmouth, with tuition being as low as £16,200 for specific courses. 

Can I Study in the UK Without IELTS as a Nigerian?

Yes, you do not need to write IELTS before you can gain admission into a good university in the UK. As a Nigerian, some alternative proofs of English proficiency that you can submit include a WAEC result where your English Language grade was C6 or above, a TOEFL result, a Duolingo test result, etc. If these results do not meet the school requirements, you can also take the university’s pre-sessional English course. 

Conclusion: Study at UK Universities Without IELTS 2025

Here begins your journey to studying in the UK—a free ticket to gaining admission into a reputable university without taking IELTS.

In this article, we’ve successfully let you in on the best universities in the UK without IELTS, the cheapest universities in the UK without IELTS, and even UK universities without IELTS and application fees! 

You see? You have no room for excuses! So believe in yourself, start your application, and study at one of the best UK universities without IELTS! 

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