Every country that welcomes international students, skilled workers and immigrants requires some form of English language proof. But here is the problem: requirements are not the same everywhere. The UK demands a specific test for visas. The USA lets universities decide. Canada has fast-track routes with different score thresholds. Australia, Germany, New Zealand and dozens of other countries each have their own rules.

If you pick the wrong test, you waste money. If you score below the threshold, your application gets delayed or rejected. If you assume one country's rules apply to another, you make a costly mistake. This guide eliminates that confusion. It covers every major country, every visa type, and every accepted English test with exact scores you need in 2026.

Whether you are applying for a student visa, work visa, permanent residence, or skilled migration, you will find the specific IELTS, PTE, TOEFL and Duolingo scores required for your situation. We also include a full score comparison table so you can convert between tests, plus internal links to our complete guides for each English test.

1. Why English Language Requirements Matter

Proof of English proficiency is the single most common requirement for international applications. Without it, you cannot get a student visa in the UK, you cannot enter the Express Entry pool in Canada, and you cannot demonstrate your ability to work and live in Australia. The English test score is often the difference between acceptance and rejection.

The reason requirements exist is straightforward. Governments and universities need to know that you can study, work and live in an English-medium environment. A student who cannot follow lectures will struggle academically. A worker who cannot communicate with colleagues will be unproductive. An immigrant who cannot navigate daily life will face hardship. English language testing provides a standardized benchmark that removes subjectivity from this assessment.

But the system is complicated because each country sets its own rules. The UK requires a specific government-approved test called a SELT (Secure English Language Test) for visa applications. The USA has no federal requirement — universities decide individually. Canada has both fast-track and standard routes with different score expectations. Australia accepts a range of tests but with specific score bands. Germany does not require English for visas at all, though universities have their own academic requirements.

This complexity means you must research your specific country, specific visa type, and specific institution before booking any test. Taking the wrong test is not just inconvenient — it can cost you $200 to $300 in test fees, weeks of preparation time, and potentially months of visa processing delay.

This guide solves that problem. We have compiled the latest requirements from official government sources for every major study-abroad destination. You will know exactly which test to take, what score to achieve, and what exceptions or waivers may apply to your situation.

2. Quick Reference: Which Test for Which Country?

Before diving into country-by-country details, here is a quick overview of the four major English tests and where they are accepted. This helps you make an initial decision about which test to prepare for.

IELTS — Accepted Everywhere

IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is the most widely accepted English test in the world. It is accepted for student visas, work visas, permanent residence and immigration in the UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland and most other English-speaking countries. If you are applying to multiple countries or want the safest choice, IELTS is the answer.

For UK student visas, you specifically need IELTS for UKVI — a version administered at UKVI-approved test centres. Regular IELTS Academic is not accepted for UK visa purposes. For other countries, standard IELTS Academic or General Training is fine.

IELTS scores are on a 0–9 band scale in half-band increments. Most visa authorities and universities require scores between 5.5 and 7.5 depending on the programme and country. Results take 3–13 days and are valid for 2 years. Test cost is approximately USD 235–270 worldwide, with slight variations by country.

PTE Academic — Fastest Growing

PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English) is the second most widely accepted test and the fastest growing. It is accepted in the UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and an increasing number of universities worldwide. PTE is fully computer-marked, which means consistent, objective scoring with no human examiner variability.

For UK visas, you need PTE Academic UKVI. For other countries, standard PTE Academic is accepted. PTE scores range from 10 to 90. Most requirements fall between 42 and 76 depending on the country and visa type. Results arrive in 2–5 business days — the fastest of any major test. Test cost is approximately USD 180–220.

TOEFL iBT — Strongest in the USA

TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is the oldest English proficiency test and remains the dominant choice in the United States. It is accepted by virtually every university in the US and by over 12,000 institutions in 160 countries. TOEFL is particularly valued by US admissions offices, where it sometimes has a slight edge in recognition.

For UK visas, TOEFL iBT is accepted when taken at UKVI-approved test centres. Scores range from 0 to 120 (30 per section). Most universities require 60–100. Results take 4–8 days. Test cost is approximately USD 200–250. The TOEFL iBT Home Edition is also available and accepted by most institutions.

Duolingo — Cheapest Option

Duolingo English Test is the newest and cheapest major English test at just USD 65. It can be taken from home on your own computer in 45 minutes. Results arrive within 48 hours. Duolingo is accepted by over 5,000 institutions, primarily in the USA and Canada, with growing acceptance in Australia.

The critical limitation is that Duolingo is NOT accepted for UK student visas. It is also not accepted for Australian student visas by the Department of Home Affairs. Duolingo scores range from 10 to 160. Most universities require 100–120. If you are applying only to US or Canadian universities, Duolingo is a viable and affordable option. If there is any chance you will apply to the UK, choose IELTS or PTE instead.

UKVI-Approved Tests — The UK Exception

The UK is the most restrictive country when it comes to English test acceptance. For student visa and work visa applications, you must take a Secure English Language Test (SELT) from a UKVI-approved provider at a UKVI-approved test centre. The only accepted SELT providers are:

Duolingo is NOT on the UKVI list. If you take Duolingo for a UK application, your visa will be refused. Always verify that your test centre is UKVI-approved before booking.

3. United Kingdom — Complete English Requirements

The UK has the most structured English language testing system of any country. The government publishes specific score requirements for every visa category, and only approved tests at approved centres are accepted.

UK Student Visa

To get a UK Student visa, you must demonstrate English at B2 level on the CEFR scale for direct entry to a degree programme. This corresponds to:

Some universities have higher requirements. A Russell Group university may require IELTS 6.0–7.0 for competitive programmes like medicine, law or engineering. Always check your specific university's requirements alongside the visa minimum.

If your English is below B2 but at B1 level (IELTS 4.0 per band), you can still get a Student visa if you enrol on a pre-sessional English course before your main programme. The pre-sessional course must be approved by UKVI and run by a licensed sponsor university. This is a common pathway for students who need a few months to improve their English.

Duolingo is NOT accepted for UK Student visa applications under any circumstances. Even if your university accepts Duolingo for admission, the visa application requires a UKVI-approved SELT. You must plan accordingly and book the right test.

UK Skilled Worker Visa

The UK Skilled Worker visa requires a lower English level than the Student visa. You need B1 level, which corresponds to:

For settled status (ILR), the requirement is also B1. You can use the same tests, or take a Life Skills test at A1 or B1 level, which is shorter and cheaper but only tests Speaking and Listening.

UK Graduate Route Visa

The Graduate Route allows you to stay in the UK for 2 years (3 years for PhD) after completing your degree. You do not need a new English test for this visa — it uses the English level from your Student visa. If you were admitted with IELTS 5.5, that covers your Graduate Route application.

Pre-sessional English Courses

If your IELTS score is below the direct entry requirement, many UK universities offer pre-sessional English courses lasting 5–20 weeks. These courses are designed to bring your English up to B2 or C1 level before your main programme starts. Completing a pre-sessional course at a licensed sponsor university satisfies the UKVI English requirement, even if your original IELTS score was below the threshold.

4. United States — Complete English Requirements

The USA takes a fundamentally different approach to English language requirements. There is no federal English test requirement for student visas. Instead, each university sets its own admission standards, and the visa is granted based on your acceptance to a SEVP-approved institution.

USA Student Visa (F-1)

Since the US government does not mandate a specific English test, requirements vary by university. However, virtually every American university requires some form of English proficiency evidence. Here are typical score ranges at different tiers of US universities:

The waiver policy is important. If you completed your bachelor's degree at an English-medium university, many US institutions will waive the English test requirement. This can save you $200–300 and weeks of preparation. Check each university's policy — some accept a Medium of Instruction letter, others require a specific number of years of English-medium education.

Duolingo has its strongest acceptance in the USA. Over 3,000 US universities accept Duolingo scores, making it a practical and affordable option. If you are only applying to US universities, Duolingo at USD 65 is significantly cheaper than IELTS or TOEFL.

USA Work Visa (H-1B)

The H-1B work visa has no English language requirement. The visa is based on your employer's petition and your professional qualifications. English ability is assumed to be necessary for the role but is not formally tested as part of the visa process.

USA Green Card

The US green card (permanent residence) does not require an English test. However, to become a US citizen, you must pass the civics test, which is conducted in English. Some green card applicants can request an exemption from the English requirement if they are over 50 years old and have lived in the US for at least 20 years, or if they are over 55 with 15 years of residency.

Top US Universities — Specific Score Requirements

UniversityIELTSTOEFL iBTPTEDuolingo
MIT7.0+100+68+120+
Stanford7.0+100+68+—
Harvard7.0+100+——
University of Michigan6.5+84+55+105+
Penn State6.5+80+53+105+
Arizona State6.0+69+50+95+

5. Canada — Complete English Requirements

Canada has a structured English language testing system with different requirements depending on whether you apply through the fast-track Student Direct Stream (SDS) or the regular study permit route.

Canada Student Visa — SDS Route

The Student Direct Stream (SDS) is a fast-track processing route for study permits. It requires a higher English score than the regular route but offers faster processing (usually 20 calendar days). The accepted tests and minimum scores for SDS are:

Duolingo is NOT accepted for SDS applications. If you want to use the fast-track route, you must take IELTS, PTE or TOEFL.

Canada Student Visa — Regular Route

For the regular study permit route, requirements are more flexible. The visa officer assesses your English ability based on the requirements of your Designated Learning Institution (DLI). Most Canadian universities and colleges accept:

The key difference from SDS is that Duolingo is accepted by many Canadian institutions for the regular route. However, the regular route takes longer to process (8–12 weeks) compared to SDS.

Canada Express Entry — Permanent Residence

Express Entry is Canada's primary pathway to permanent residence for skilled workers. English proficiency is a critical factor in your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. Higher English scores earn significantly more CRS points. The scores are mapped to the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) levels:

You can also use PTE Academic for Express Entry. The CLB equivalency table maps PTE scores to CLB levels. For CLB 9, you need approximately PTE 70+ across all sections. For CLB 7, you need approximately PTE 60+ per section.

Improving from CLB 7 to CLB 9 can add 40–60 CRS points, which can be the difference between receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) and staying in the pool. Many Express Entry candidates retake IELTS specifically to push their scores from CLB 7 to CLB 9 for this reason.

Canada Work Permit

Canada does not require an English test for most work permits. The employer-specific work permit and open work permit do not have language requirements. However, English proficiency is important for your job prospects and daily life in Canada.

6. Australia — Complete English Requirements

Australia accepts a wider range of English tests than most countries, including IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, Cambridge and OET. Each test has specific score requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs.

Australia Student Visa (Subclass 500)

The Australian Student visa (subclass 500) has English requirements that depend on the type of course and the provider:

Students who do not meet the direct entry English requirement can take an ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) course before their main programme. This is similar to the UK's pre-sessional system.

Duolingo is accepted by some Australian universities for admission purposes, but the Department of Home Affairs does not list it as an approved test for visa purposes. Check carefully before relying on Duolingo for an Australian student visa.

Australian University Admission

While the visa has minimum English requirements, Australian universities typically require higher scores for admission:

Australia Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)

The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) requires higher English than the Student visa. You need:

Australia Skilled Migration

For General Skilled Migration (GSM), English proficiency directly affects your points score in the points test:

The points difference between Competent and Superior English is 20 points, which can be decisive in receiving an invitation. Many skilled migration applicants retake IELTS specifically to increase their points score.

7. Germany — Complete English Requirements

Germany takes a unique approach to English language requirements. There is no English test required for a German visa. The English requirement comes from the university, not the immigration authority.

Germany Student Visa

When you apply for a German student visa, the visa officer checks your university admission letter. If the university has admitted you, that implies you meet their English requirement. You do not need to present a separate English test to the visa authority.

However, for university admission to English-taught programmes, you will typically need:

Many German universities also accept a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter if your previous degree was taught in English. This can save you the cost of an English test entirely. The MOI letter must be issued by your previous university confirming that the language of instruction was English.

Germany offers over 1,800 English-taught programmes at public universities, with no tuition fees for most students (only a small semester contribution of EUR 150–350). This makes Germany one of the most affordable study destinations in the world.

Germany Work Visa

The German work visa has no English language requirement. The visa is based on your job offer and qualifications. However, if you are applying for a job that requires English, the employer may ask for English test results as part of their hiring process — but this is between you and the employer, not a visa requirement.

Germany Permanent Residence

German permanent residence (Niederlassungserlaubnis) requires B1 German, not English. You need to demonstrate basic German proficiency for integration purposes. English is not tested for PR applications.

8. New Zealand — Complete English Requirements

New Zealand follows a similar model to Australia, accepting multiple English tests for visa purposes.

New Zealand Student Visa

For a New Zealand student visa, the English requirement depends on your course level:

Accepted tests include IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, Cambridge C1 Advanced and OET. The score equivalencies are mapped by Immigration New Zealand. Duolingo is not widely accepted for New Zealand visa purposes.

New Zealand Skilled Migrant Category

The Skilled Migrant Category requires IELTS 6.5 overall (or equivalent in PTE, TOEFL or Cambridge). This is a mandatory requirement — you cannot apply for skilled migration without meeting this threshold. Higher English scores may contribute additional points to your Expression of Interest (EOI).

New Zealand Post-Study Work Visa

The Post-Study Work visa does not require a separate English test. It uses the English level you demonstrated for your student visa. If you were admitted with IELTS 6.0, that covers your post-study work visa application.

9. Other Countries — English Requirements at a Glance

Many other popular study-abroad destinations have their own English language requirements. Here is a summary of requirements for countries not covered in detail above.

Ireland

Ireland accepts IELTS, PTE, TOEFL and Duolingo for student visas. Requirements are similar to the UK:

France

For English-taught programmes in France, universities typically require:

Italy

Italy's requirements vary by university and programme:

Turkey

Turkey has relatively accessible English requirements:

Netherlands

Dutch universities offering English-taught programmes typically require:

Sweden

Swedish universities have moderate English requirements:

Switzerland

Swiss universities, particularly ETH Zurich and EPFL, have higher requirements:

Japan

Japanese universities offering English-taught programmes typically require:

China

Chinese universities accepting international students usually require:

South Korea

South Korean universities have varied requirements:

10. Score Comparison Table — IELTS vs PTE vs TOEFL vs Duolingo

One of the most common questions is: what score in one test equals what score in another? This conversion table shows the approximate equivalencies used by most universities and visa authorities. Use this to compare your options if you are considering multiple tests.

CEFR LevelIELTSPTE AcademicTOEFL iBTDuolingo
A1–A24.0–4.530–3642–5255–75
B1 (Lower)5.037–4253–6475–85
B1 (Upper)5.543–5065–7885–95
B2 (Lower)6.050–5779–9395–105
B2 (Upper)6.558–6494–101105–115
C1 (Lower)7.065–72102–110115–125
C1 (Upper)7.573–79111–117125–135
C28.0–9.080–90118–120135–160

These equivalencies are approximate. Individual institutions may have slightly different conversion tables. Always check your specific university or visa authority's published score equivalencies rather than assuming exact conversions.

For example, some UK universities specify that PTE 59 is equivalent to IELTS 5.5 for visa purposes, while the general conversion table might suggest PTE 43–50. The UKVI has its own approved equivalency table that may differ from general conversions. Always use the official equivalency table published by your target institution or authority.

11. Student Visa English Requirements by Country

This table summarises the minimum English test scores required for student visas across all major destinations.

CountryIELTSPTETOEFL iBTDuolingoNotes
UK5.5 (UKVI)59 (UKVI)79 (UKVI centre)Not acceptedMust use SELT-approved test
USA6.0–7.550–7060–100100–120No federal requirement; university-specific
Canada (SDS)6.06083Not acceptedFast-track route
Canada (Regular)6.0–6.555–6580–100100–120Varies by DLI
Australia5.5–6.042–5046–60Not for visaELICOS pathway available
New Zealand5.5–6.042–5060–80Not acceptedVaries by course level
Germany6.0–6.555–6579–93VariesNo visa requirement; university requirement
Ireland6.0–6.555–6580–90100–110Varies by level

12. Work Visa English Requirements by Country

Work visa English requirements are generally lower than student visa requirements, since the assumption is that you will learn English on the job or already have professional proficiency.

CountryVisa TypeIELTSNotes
UKSkilled Worker4.0 per band (B1)Lowest requirement; can use Life Skills for settlement
USAH-1BNot requiredBased on employer petition and qualifications
CanadaWork PermitNot requiredEmployer-specific or open work permit
AustraliaTSS 4825.0 per bandEmployer-sponsored; lower than skilled migration
New ZealandAccredited Employer5.0–6.5Varies by occupation and role
GermanyWork VisaNot requiredBased on job offer and qualifications
IrelandGeneral Employment5.0–6.5Varies by role and permit type

13. Permanent Residence / Immigration English Requirements by Country

Permanent residence and immigration requirements are often the most demanding because they assess your long-term ability to integrate into the country.

CountryRouteIELTS MinimumPTE MinimumNotes
UKILR4.0 per band (B1)43 overallLife Skills A1/B1 also accepted
CanadaExpress Entry (CLB 7)6.0 per band60 per sectionHigher scores = more CRS points
CanadaExpress Entry (CLB 9)7.0–8.0 per band70+ per sectionMaximum CRS point allocation
AustraliaGSM (Competent)6.0 per band50 per sectionMinimum for 0 points
AustraliaGSM (Superior)8.0 per band79 per section20 extra points
New ZealandSkilled Migrant6.5 overall58 overallMandatory threshold
GermanyPRNot requiredNot requiredGerman B1 required instead
USAGreen CardNot requiredNot requiredEnglish civics test for citizenship

14. How to Choose the Right English Test

Choosing the right English test depends on four factors: where you are going, what visa type you need, your timeline, and your budget. Here is a practical decision framework.

If You Are Applying to the UK

You must take a UKVI-approved test. Your choices are IELTS for UKVI, PTE Academic UKVI, TOEFL iBT at a UKVI centre, or Cambridge C1 Advanced. Duolingo is not an option. IELTS for UKVI is the most common choice because it is available at the most test centres worldwide. PTE Academic UKVI is gaining popularity because results come faster (2–5 days vs 3–13 days).

If You Are Applying to the USA

You have the most flexibility. All four major tests are accepted. If you are on a budget, Duolingo at USD 65 is the cheapest option and is widely accepted by US universities. If you want the most universally recognised test, choose TOEFL iBT, which has the strongest US pedigree. If you might also apply to Canada or Australia alongside the US, choose IELTS for maximum flexibility.

If You Are Applying to Canada

For the SDS fast-track route, you need IELTS 6.0 or PTE 60. For the regular route, Duolingo is also accepted by many institutions. For Express Entry PR, IELTS is the most commonly used test because the CLB scoring system is directly mapped to IELTS band scores.

If You Are Applying to Australia

Australia accepts IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, Cambridge and OET. For student visas, PTE Academic is often the most affordable option. For skilled migration, IELTS is the most commonly used test because the points system directly references IELTS band scores.

If You Are Applying to Multiple Countries

If you are considering options in the UK, Canada, Australia and elsewhere, IELTS is the safest choice. It is accepted for student visas, work visas and immigration in every major English-speaking country. Taking IELTS keeps all your options open.

15. Tips for Achieving Your Target Score

Knowing the requirement is only half the battle. Here are practical tips for actually achieving the score you need.

Start with a diagnostic test. Take a free practice test online to understand your current level. This tells you whether you need 2 weeks or 3 months of preparation. Free practice tests are available on the IELTS, PTE, TOEFL and Duolingo official websites.

Focus on your weakest module. Most students have one skill that is significantly weaker than the others. If your Listening is 7.0 but your Writing is 5.5, spend 70% of your study time on Writing. Your overall score is an average of all four skills, so improving the weakest one has the biggest impact.

Use official preparation materials. The IELTS Cambridge practice books, PTE Official Guide, TOEFL Official Practice, and Duolingo practice tests are the most reliable preparation resources. Free YouTube channels and apps can supplement but should not replace official materials.

Practice under timed conditions. Many students can achieve their target score in untimed practice but fail under exam pressure. Build your speed and stamina by practising with strict time limits from the start.

Consider a preparation course. If you need to improve by more than 1 band, an intensive preparation course can accelerate your progress. Many British Council and IDP centres offer 4–8 week IELTS preparation courses. Online options from E2Language, Magoosh and other providers are more affordable.

Book early and plan a retake. Test slots fill up quickly, especially in peak application season (September–January). Book your test at least 6–8 weeks before your application deadline. If you do not achieve your target score, you can retake the test — there is no limit on retakes, but you should wait until you have had time to improve.

16. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Choosing the wrong test. This is the most expensive mistake. If you are applying to the UK and take Duolingo, your visa will be refused. If you are applying to Canada SDS and take Duolingo, you will not qualify for fast-track processing. Always verify test acceptance before booking.

Assuming scores are equal across countries. An IELTS 5.5 for the UK and an IELTS 6.0 for Canada are different requirements. Do not assume that meeting one country's requirement means you meet another's. Always check the specific score and specific band requirements (overall vs per-band).

Ignoring per-band minimums. Many requirements specify minimum scores in each skill, not just an overall score. You can get IELTS 6.5 overall with 7.0, 7.0, 6.0 and 6.0 — but if the requirement is 6.0 in each band, you barely meet it. If one band is 5.5, you fail even though your overall is 6.5.

Forgetting score validity. English test scores are valid for 2 years from the test date. If you took IELTS 2 years and 1 month ago, your score has expired. Plan your test date so that your results are valid when you submit your application.

Not checking university-specific requirements. The visa minimum is the floor, not the ceiling. Your university may require higher scores for admission. For example, the UK visa minimum is IELTS 5.5, but a Russell Group university may require IELTS 6.5 or 7.0 for your programme. Always check both the visa requirement and the university requirement.

17. Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to the most common questions about English language requirements for visas and immigration.

What English test do I need for a UK student visa?

For a UK Student visa, you need an approved Secure English Language Test (SELT). The accepted tests are: IELTS for UKVI, PTE Academic UKVI, TOEFL iBT (from UKVI-approved centres), and Cambridge C1 Advanced. Duolingo is NOT accepted. You need B2 level (5.5 in each band for IELTS) for direct entry, or B1 (4.0 per band) with a pre-sessional course.

What English test do I need for a Canada student visa?

For the SDS (Student Direct Stream), you need IELTS 6.0 overall with no band below 6.0. PTE Academic 60+ is also accepted for SDS. For regular study permits, IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, and Duolingo are accepted depending on the institution. Most Canadian universities require IELTS 6.5 overall for admission.

What English test do I need for an Australia student visa?

For an Australian Student visa (subclass 500), you need IELTS 5.5-6.0 overall, PTE 42-50, TOEFL iBT 46-60, Cambridge C1 Advanced 162-169, or OET (for health professions). For direct entry to university, most require IELTS 6.0-6.5. Duolingo is accepted by some universities but not all visa authorities.

What English test do I need for a USA student visa?

The USA has no federal English test requirement for F-1 student visas. Each university sets its own requirements. Most accept IELTS 6.0-7.5, TOEFL iBT 60-100, PTE 50-70, or Duolingo 100-120. Some universities waive the English requirement if your previous education was in English.

Do I need an English test for a work visa?

It depends on the country. UK Skilled Worker visa requires IELTS 4.0 per band (B1). Canada does not require English for work visas but needs it for Express Entry PR. Australia requires IELTS 6.0+ for skilled migration. Germany does not require English for work visas. USA does not require English for H-1B. New Zealand requires IELTS 6.5 for Skilled Migrant.

What English test do I need for permanent residence?

Canada Express Entry: IELTS 6.0-8.0 per band (CLB 7-9). Australia skilled migration: IELTS 6.0 per band minimum. UK ILR: IELTS 4.0 per band (B1) or Life Skills. New Zealand Skilled Migrant: IELTS 6.5 overall. Germany PR: not required but B1 German helps. USA green card: not required.

Can I study abroad without IELTS?

Yes. Many universities accept PTE, TOEFL, Duolingo, Cambridge, or waive requirements if your previous education was in English. Some countries (Germany, Turkey, Italy) do not require English tests for visa purposes. However, for UK visas, you must take an approved SELT.

Which English test is accepted by most countries?

IELTS is the most widely accepted English test globally — accepted for student visas, work visas, PR and immigration in UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and many other countries. It is the safest choice if you are applying to multiple countries. PTE is the second most accepted, followed by TOEFL.

What is the minimum IELTS score for a student visa?

The minimum varies by country: UK requires 5.5 per band (B2). Canada SDS requires 6.0 overall (no band below 6.0). Australia requires 5.5-6.0 overall. New Zealand requires 5.5-6.5. USA has no federal minimum. Germany and Italy do not require IELTS for visa purposes.

How long are English test scores valid for visas?

IELTS, PTE, TOEFL and Duolingo scores are all valid for 2 years from the test date. Most visa authorities require results within the last 2 years. Some institutions may accept results within 12-24 months depending on their specific policy. Always check the latest requirements.

18. Study Resources and Internal Links

Use these AbroadReady guides to prepare for your English test and plan your study abroad journey:

Preparing for your English test is the first step. Finding the right scholarship is the next. Visit our scholarship database to find fully funded opportunities with live deadlines, eligibility criteria and direct apply links.