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Written by Ben Taylor
If you’re applying for an English-taught Masters but English isn’t your first language, you’ll usually find that universities ask for proof of your language skills.
This evidence can come in the form of several different English language tests that are widely recognised by universities across the world, such as IELTS and TOEFL.
This page will give you an introduction to each of these tests. Elsewhere in this section, you can read more detailed guides to the various English language tests.
Applying for an English-taught Masters and need to prove your language skills? Our guide to the TOEFL covers everything postgraduates need to know about this English language test, from minimum scores and exam structure to typical fees.
Read moreApplying for an English-taught Masters and need to prove your language skills? Our guide to the Cambridge English certificates covers everything postgraduates need to know about these English language tests, from minimum scores and exam structure to typical fees.
Read moreApplying for an English-taught course and need to prove your language skills? Our guide to IELTS covers everything students need to know including which IELTS you should take for a Masters, minimum scores, exam structure and typical fees.
Read moreNeed to prove your language skills? Our guide to the PTE Academic English test covers everything you need to know, from minimum scores and exam structure to typical fees.
Read moreSo, which is the right one for you? IELTS, TOEFL or one of the other English language tests mentioned above?
There are several significant differences between IELTS and TOEFL, and these may influence your decision:
IELTS and TOEFL are both widely accepted at universities across the world – from American institutions to British and Commonwealth universities. If you’re unsure which exam to take, perhaps try out a couple of sample papers and see which style suits you.
The minimum IELTS score for entry to UK postgraduate courses is usually 6.5, but it varies between 6 and 7. Higher scores will be required for disciplines which require higher degrees of literacy (e.g. English Literature may require IELTS 7.5). There will also be a minimum score for each individual skill, typically 0.5 below the overall requirement.
The minimum TOEFL score for entry to UK postgraduate courses is usually around 90, but it can vary between 80 and 100. Please note that there isn’t a standard equivalence between TOEFL and IELTS scores, and so the precise requirements may change from university to university.
The table below is based on research from ETS (the company that administers the TOEFL test) and the University of Manchester’s language requirements. It’s intended only as a rough guide and you should contact your prospective university if you have any questions about entry requirements and your qualifications.
The table below is based on research from ETS (the company that administers the TOEFL test) and the University of Manchester’s language requirements. It’s intended only as a rough guide and you should contact your prospective university if you have any questions about entry requirements and your qualifications.
IELTS | TOEFL iBT | PTE Academic | Cambridge English certificates |
---|---|---|---|
7.5+ | 102-120 | 74+ | 191-230 |
7 | 94-101 | 66-73 | 185-190 |
6.5 | 79-93 | 59-65 | 176-184 |
6 | 60-78 | 51-58 | 169-175 |
5.5 | 46-59 | 43-50 | 162-168 |
If you don’t achieve the required scores, most universities run intensive English language courses to bring you up to the right level. You will have to pay a fee for these courses. Courses can last between two and 20 weeks, but in some specialist areas may be even longer.
It’s important to prepare thoroughly, whichever exam you go for. There are certain strategies and techniques that are key to understanding how each test work. You’ll need to be familiar with the types of questions, categories of text and recording, and how your test is marked.
The qualifications on this page are well-established, with plenty of practice materials – both online and in the form of textbooks.
Many language schools and private tutors offer group and one-to-one classes to help you prepare for the test. Make sure you research the schools and tutors thoroughly before signing up to classes, however.
Remember that schools should be accredited by the British Council and that experienced tutors should have the DELTA qualification (Diploma in English Language Teaching for Adults) in preference to the lower level CELTA (Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) qualification.
Of course, it’s also possible to successfully self-study for the tests. Here are some hints and tips:
After researching the English language tests and deciding which one to take you should make a study plan and be realistic in order to achieve the score you need.
IELTS recommend that you are likely to need three months of full-time study to increase by 0.5, but this will vary depending on each student. You should bear in mind that even with an IELTS 6.5, studying a postgraduate programme in English in the UK – or abroad – will be challenging and you should try to continue improving your English throughout your course.
Please note that most universities will only accept language certificates that have been achieved in the past two years – even if such a qualification is still technically valid – so make sure that you factor this in when booking your test and applying for a Masters.
Ready to find your perfect Masters? Begin your search with us now and check the language requirements for your programme of choice.
Ben worked in the FindAMasters content team from 2017 to 2022, starting as an Assistant Content Writer and leaving as Student Content Manager. He focused on producing well-researched advice across a range of topics related to postgraduate study. Ben has a Bachelors degree in English Literature from the University of Sheffield and a Masters from the University of Amsterdam. Having also spent a semester at the University of Helsinki through the Erasmus programme, he’s no stranger to study abroad (or cold weather!).
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