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When preparing for the IELTS test, it is important to understand the IELTS eligibility criteria. Knowing the requirements ensures that you are eligible to take the test and helps avoid last-minute disappointments. Typically, these include age requirements (16 years or older), educational qualifications (pass in Grade 10 or 12), and language proficiency (English). Meeting the eligibility criteria ensures that your scores will be accepted by universities, immigration authorities, or professional bodies. Failure to meet these requirements may result in your scores being invalidated. Check the IELTS eligibility criteria with the British Council, IDP, or the official IELTS website to ensure a smooth experience, choose the right test module, prepare adequately, and secure acceptance by your desired institutions or organizations.
The eligibility criteria for IELTS in India 2024 is very clear. Candidates must be at least 16 years of age, and there is no upper age limit. There are no specific qualifications required to take the exam. IELTS is open to everyone regardless of gender, nationality or background. IDP conducts the exam and tests the listening, reading, writing and speaking skills of candidates. Explore the table below for more information on IELTS eligibility.
Each university has a different set of requirements and a specific set of guidelines as part of the admission process. Also, all universities have different IELTS eligibility criteria that candidates must meet to get admission. In addition, candidates must also meet other eligibility requirements set by the university or educational institute they are planning to enroll in. Find out the IELTS cut-off across popular study abroad destinations.
Eligibility Criteria for IELTS Exam differ from university to university, so you need to check it before applying. Not only universities but specific courses also require different IELTS qualifications. So let’s check the minimum IELTS Score required by Top Universities of different countries:
| University | Country | Minimum IELTS Score (Overall) | Minimum Score Per Section |
| University of Oxford | United Kingdom | 7.0–7.5 | 6.5 |
| University of Cambridge | United Kingdom | 7.0–7.5 | 7 |
| Harvard University | United States | 7 | 7 |
| Stanford University | United States | 7 | 6.5 |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | United States | 7 | 6.5 |
| University of Toronto | Canada | 6.5–7.0 | 6 |
| University of British Columbia | Canada | 6.5–7.0 | 6 |
| University of Melbourne | Australia | 6.5–7.0 | 6 |
| Australian National University | Australia | 6.5–7.0 | 6 |
| National University of Singapore (NUS) | Singapore | 6.5–7.0 | 6 |
| ETH Zurich | Switzerland | 7 | 6.5 |
| University of Tokyo | Japan | 6.5 | 6 |
IELTS Eligibility is also different from country to country. Let’s learn with some highlights of IELTS test eligibility by country across popular study abroad destinations.
| Country | Minimum Age Requirement | Eligibility | Remarks |
| United States | No specific age limit | Generally accepted for undergraduate and graduate programs; specific requirements vary by university. | Minimum score requirements vary widely by institution, typically between 6.0 and 7.5. |
| Canada | 16+ | Required for visa and admission to universities and colleges; minimum score varies by program and institution. | IELTS Academic usually required; minimum score typically 6.0-7.5 depending on the program. |
| United Kingdom | No specific age limit | IELTS required for higher education, including undergraduate and postgraduate programs. | Minimum score requirements generally range from 6.0 to 7.5 depending on the program and university. |
| Australia | No specific age limit | IELTS required for most university and visa applications, including Student Visas (subclass 500). | Minimum score requirements typically range from 6.0 to 7.0; universities may require a higher score for certain courses. |
| New Zealand | 16+ | Required for visa and university admission; accepted for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs. | Minimum IELTS score requirements range from 6.0 to 7.5 depending on the program. |
| Germany | No specific age limit | IELTS required for non-native English speakers for admissions to English-taught programs at many universities. | Minimum score requirements typically range from 6.0 to 7.0 for most institutions, though some may accept lower scores. |
| France | No specific age limit | IELTS accepted for English-taught programs in French universities; not required for French-taught programs. | IELTS score requirements typically range from 6.0 to 7.0 for English-taught programs. |
| Singapore | No specific age limit | IELTS required for most universities for non-native English speakers. | Minimum scores usually range between 6.0 and 7.5 depending on the program. |
| Ireland | No specific age limit | Required for university admission, especially for non-native speakers applying to English-taught courses. | IELTS scores generally required to be 6.0 or above for undergraduate and postgraduate programs. |
| United Arab Emirates | No specific age limit | Required by universities for English proficiency, especially for international students. | Minimum IELTS score requirements range from 5.5 to 7.0, depending on the program and institution. |
| Netherlands | No specific age limit | Required for most English-taught programs in universities; score requirements vary by program. | Generally, IELTS Academic is required, with minimum scores around 6.0 to 7.0 for most programs. |
| Sweden | No specific age limit | Required for most English-taught programs at universities; non-native speakers must provide proof of English proficiency. | Minimum IELTS scores typically range from 6.5 to 7.0. |
| Japan | No specific age limit | Not mandatory for all programs, but required for most English-taught programs at universities for non-native English speakers. | Minimum IELTS scores for English-taught programs generally range from 6.0 to 7.0. |
| South Korea | No specific age limit | Required for English-taught programs in most universities; some institutions may have alternative English proficiency test options. | Minimum IELTS scores for English-taught programs usually range from 5.5 to 7.0. |
Que: Who is eligible for IELTS?
A: Individuals aged 16 or over, seeking overseas education, immigration or professional registration, with a valid passport and language proficiency are eligible.
Que: What educational qualifications are required?
A: At least Grade 10 or 12; some institutions require higher qualifications, diplomas or degrees for undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.
Que: Is IELTS required for the UK/USA/Australia/Canada?
A: Yes, IELTS is accepted/required by universities and immigration authorities in these countries for study, work and permanent residence.
Que: Can I take the IELTS test without a graduation certificate?
A: Yes, but check the institution/immigration requirements, as some institutions may exempt or require additional documents.
Que: How valid are IELTS scores?
A: IELTS scores are valid for two years from the test date, but check the institution/immigration requirements.
Que: Can I retake the IELTS test?
A: Yes, there is no limit on attempts, but please be mindful of the preparation and time gaps between tests.
Que: Are there any age restrictions?
A: There is no age restriction, but minors (under 18) need parental consent and proof of identity.
Que: Do I need work experience for the IELTS test?
A: No work experience is required, unless specified by the institution/immigration department for specific programmes.
Que: Can I take the IELTS test online?
A: No, IELTS is a paper/pencil test or a computer-based test at approved test centres.
Que: Are IELTS test results accepted globally?
A: Yes, IELTS test results are accepted by over 10,000 institutions, organizations, and governments around the world.
