If you’re planning to study in an English-speaking country, one of the first questions that may come to your mind is: “Do I need to prove my English skills to get a student visa?” The answer is usually yes—but it depends on where you’re going, what course you’re taking, and sometimes even your nationality.
In this article, we’ll go over the English language requirements for student visas in different countries. We’ll also explain what kinds of tests are accepted, what scores you might need, and when you might be exempt. Whether you’re applying to study in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand, this guide will help you understand what’s expected.
Why English Skills Matter for Student Visas
English is the main language of instruction in many countries. If you want to succeed in class, write essays, take exams, and communicate with your teachers and classmates, you need to understand and speak English well.
Governments in these countries also want to make sure international students can keep up with their studies. That’s why most student visa applications ask for proof of English skills.
Proving your English level is not just about school. It’s also important for living daily life—whether you’re renting an apartment, going to the doctor, or getting a part-time job.
Which Countries Require English Tests for Student Visas?
Not every country has the same rules. Some countries require test scores for both the university application and the visa. Others only ask for proof of English when you apply to your school, not for the visa. Let’s look at some popular study destinations.
United States (USA)
For the US student visa (F-1 visa), the US government does not ask directly for an English test. However, universities and colleges do. If you’re applying to a university in the US, you will most likely need to submit proof of English proficiency to get accepted.
Commonly accepted tests:
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
Duolingo English Test (accepted by some schools)
PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English)
Most US schools require a TOEFL iBT score of 70–100, or an IELTS score of 6.0–7.0, depending on the course level and institution. After you are admitted, you can apply for your visa.
If you come from an English-speaking country, or if you studied in English before, the school might waive the English test.
United Kingdom (UK)
The UK has specific English requirements for student visas. If you are applying for a Student visa (formerly Tier 4), you must meet the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) English language standards.
Accepted tests:
IELTS for UKVI (Academic)
Pearson PTE Academic UKVI
LanguageCert International ESOL SELT
Trinity ISE
PSI Skills for English UKVI
Minimum score:
For degree-level courses: B2 level (IELTS 5.5 overall and in all sections)
For below degree-level: B1 level (IELTS 4.0 in all sections)
The test must be taken at an approved UKVI test center. Some universities are licensed to assess your English themselves, and if they confirm your level, you may not need a test score.
If you are from a majority English-speaking country (like the USA, Canada, or Australia), you do not need to take an English test for the visa.
Canada
Canada’s student visa, known as a study permit, does not have a strict English test requirement from the immigration side. However, universities and colleges in Canada do require proof of English language proficiency.
Accepted tests:
IELTS Academic
TOEFL iBT
PTE Academic
Duolingo English Test (some schools)
Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL)
The required score varies. Most universities ask for:
IELTS: 6.5 overall, with no band below 6.0
TOEFL iBT: 80–100
Once you are accepted into a Canadian institution, you can apply for a study permit. The letter of acceptance usually confirms that you meet the English requirement, so no extra proof is needed for the visa.
Australia
Australia requires student visa applicants to show that they can speak English. The government has its own approved list of English tests. If your school is satisfied with your level and mentions it in your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), you might not need to submit a test result for the visa.
Accepted tests:
IELTS
TOEFL iBT
PTE Academic
Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE)
Occupational English Test (OET) for healthcare courses
Minimum score for most courses:
IELTS: 5.5
TOEFL iBT: 46
PTE Academic: 42
CAE: 162
Higher scores may be required for university degrees or certain programs. If you come from a country where English is the first language, or if you studied in English for several years, you may be exempt.
New Zealand
New Zealand requires proof of English for both school admission and student visa approval. You must meet the language requirement for your chosen course, and the immigration department also reviews this.
Accepted tests:
IELTS Academic
TOEFL iBT
PTE Academic
Cambridge English: B2 First or C1 Advanced
NZCEL (New Zealand Certificate in English Language)
Minimum required scores vary:
For undergraduate courses: IELTS 6.0 overall (with no band less than 5.5)
For postgraduate: IELTS 6.5 (with no band less than 6.0)
If your course is taught in English and your previous education was also in English, you may not need a test. But this depends on your nationality and the institution’s policies.
When Can You Skip the English Test?
You may be exempt from submitting an English test if:
You come from a country where English is the main language.
You studied in English for several years.
Your school or university confirms your English level.
You’re taking a short course that doesn’t require a high level of English.
But even if you qualify for an exemption, it’s still a good idea to check both with your school and the immigration office. Rules can change, and each case is different.
Which English Test Should You Take?
This depends on where you’re going and what your school accepts. Here’s a quick breakdown:
IELTS Academic is widely accepted in the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
TOEFL iBT is common for the US and Canada.
PTE Academic is growing in popularity, especially in Australia and New Zealand.
Duolingo English Test is easier to take from home, but not all schools accept it.
Cambridge English Exams are accepted in the UK, Australia, and some other countries.
Before booking a test, always check with your school and local immigration office to see which tests and scores are accepted.
When Should You Take the Test?
Take your test early, preferably 6–12 months before your course starts. English test results are usually valid for two years.
Make sure your score is valid at the time of your visa application and when your course begins.
If your score is too low, you may have time to take the test again. It’s better to be ready than to rush at the last minute.
Tips to Prepare for English Tests
Know the format – Each test is different. Practice reading, writing, speaking, and listening based on the test type.
Take sample tests – Free practice materials are available online.
Join an English class – Language schools often have prep courses.
Use English daily – Watch English shows, read newspapers, and speak with friends.
Time yourself – Learn how to manage your time during the test.
Conclusion
Meeting the English requirement is a key part of studying abroad. It’s not just about getting a visa—it also helps you feel more confident when living and studying in a new country.
Always check the latest information on the official immigration website of your chosen country. Every country, university, and visa type has slightly different rules.
Start early, ask questions, and prepare well. A strong English score can open the door to many opportunities around the world.
If you’re serious about studying abroad, your English skills will help you every step of the way.
