English Language Requirements
English Language Requirements
English language requirements
To study at UEL you must demonstrate that your English level is at the standard for university study. We accept a number of different English language qualifications/tests for entry onto our courses, with IELTS being the most common. English language requirements vary slightly from course to course. All students are required to meet our standard English language requirements.
We now offer Pre-sessional English in collaboration with Malvern House London.
Whether you are looking to study at the undergraduate or postgraduate level, if you don't meet the IELTS requirements for your choice of degree here at the University of East London, you might be able to study a pre-sessional English course over a duration of 5 to 11 weeks, depending on your level of English.
You don't need to apply to study pre-sessional English with us, you just need to apply for the course of your choice and we will decide whether or not you need the pre-sessional. And don't forget that whatever happens, you will have access to all the University's facilities and services, including the benefit of on-campus accommodation from day one!
Accepted English Language qualifications:
- IELTS Academic
- IELTS for UKVI
- LanguageCert Academic
- TOEFL iBT
- Pearson PTE Academic
- Trinity College London Integrated Skills in English
- Cambridge IGCSE
- Oxford ELLT (English Language Level Test) - Click the web link or use our exclusive promo code ELON75 to book your test at a discounted price.
- Skills for English: SELT - Book your Skills for English
We do not accept:
- IELTS General
- TOEIC
- IGCSE / GCE O Levels in English Literature. Only English Language is accepted
- Duolingo
Refer to the region pages for further information
IELTS
IELTS is the most commonly taken English Language qualification and most entry requirements are expressed in the IELTS score required. IELTS certificates are only valid for 2 years.
Undergraduate standard requirements
The English language requirement for undergraduate (Bachelor) courses is a minimum IELTS score of 5.5 or 6, or equivalent, depending on the course and year or level of entry. The specific requirements for your chosen course, including individual component scores, will be outlined on the course page.
Postgraduate standard requirements
The English language entry requirements for the majority of postgraduate (Masters) programmes is a minimum IELTS 6.0 or 6.5, or equivalent, depending on your chosen course of study. Specific requirements for your chosen course, including individual component scores, will be outlined on the course page.
Home office approved Majority English-speaking countries
The confirmed list of Home Office approved Majority English speaking countries can be found below. If your country is not listed you will be required to fulfil the standard English language requirements.
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Canada
- Jamaica
- St Vincent and the Grenadines
- Australia
- Dominica
- New Zealand
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Barbados
- Grenada
- St Kitts and Nevis
- The Bahamas
- Belize
- Guyana
- St Lucia
- United States of America
Need more information? Please contact our International Office at international@uel.ac.uk
Pre-sessional English
The online Pre-Sessional English course is designed for students who need better English language skills to study at UEL.
Find out more about the Pre-sessional English courseEnglish Language FAQs
Can I study at UEL without IELTS?
Yes. IELTS is the most common test, but we accept a range of other English qualifications, including TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Oxford ELLT and LanguageCert Academic. If you are slightly below the score for your course, we may offer you a pre-sessional English course.
How long are English test results valid for?
English language test results should normally be no more than two years old when you apply. Check your course page if you are unsure.
Does UEL accept the Duolingo English Test?
Duolingo isn’t currently accepted. Please use one of our approved tests or qualifications listed on this page.
What if I don’t meet the English requirement for my course?
If you are close to the required level, we may offer you a pre-sessional English course. Courses run for 5–11 weeks, depending on your level, and you will have access to UEL facilities and accommodation while you study.
Do students from English-speaking countries still need a test?
Some students may not need a test depending on their nationality, qualifications or previous study in English. Check your course page and your country guidance to confirm what evidence you need.




