How to apply  Entry requirements

Entry requirements

Whichever study option you choose to apply for, you’ll need to meet certain entry requirements to be accepted onto the course or degree you’ve selected. 

There are two basic entry requirements that you will need to meet: academic requirements and English language requirements.

Student studying lesson

Academic entry requirements

Academic entry requirements show that you have a suitable educational background and the necessary grades to start a given course or degree.   

Typically, you’ll need to have: 

  • Completed a minimum number of years of high school level study or associated preparation course to start a bachelor’s degree

  • Earned a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in order to start a master’s preparation course or master’s degree

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English language entry requirements 

To study at a college or university based in an English-speaking country, you’ll need to have a minimum level of English language proficiency. Make sure you check the specific language requirements of your chosen university by visiting their website. To prove your English language level, you’ll need to take a recognised English test.

Common accepted English tests:

IELTS

International English Language Testing System, including IELTS for UKVI

TOEFL

Test of English as a Foreign Language

Kaplan iBT

Kaplan’s equivalent to the TOEFL internet-based test for admission in the USA

KTE

Kaplan Test of English for entry to UK digital pathway courses

LanguageCert

Including LanguageCert International ESOL SELT

PTE

Pearson Test of English

Entry requirements by region

Explore the entry requirements for studying in the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Each region has its own unique requirements, including academic qualifications, language tests, and visa rules. This section breaks down what you’ll need for each region.

USA

For students who want to study at a university in the USA

Canada

For students who want to study in Canada

UK

For students who want to study at a university in the UK

Australia & New Zealand

For students who want to study at a university in Australia and New Zealand

Download guides to accepted tests for US and UK universities
Accepted English tests for North American universities

(0.18MB, PDF) 

Accepted English tests for UK higher education

(0.12MB, PDF)

Next steps

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Application process

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Fees and costs