IELTS Is Required for Which Countries? Experts Guide in 2025

The IELTS stands for International English Language Testing System, which is a widely recognized English proficiency test. Conducted by IELTS is required for which countries across the world to evaluate the language skills of non-native English speakers. Whether applicants are planning to study abroad, immigrate, or seek employment, IELTS always plays an important role in securing a visa or university admission for applicants.

This blog will provide detailed information about the IELTS required for which countries with the specific visa categories, minimum IELTS score requirements, and top overseas universities that accept IELTS. 

Latest Facts and News (2025):

• IELTS is accepted in over 140 countries globally.

• Canada requires a minimum score of 6.0 for undergraduate programs and 6.5 for postgraduate degrees.

• Australia mandates an overall score of 6.0 for undergraduate courses and 6.5 or higher for master's programs.

• The UK requires a minimum score of 7.0 for top universities like Oxford and Cambridge.

• New Zealand immigration requires a minimum score of 6.5 overall.

• Ireland accepts IELTS scores of 6.0 to 7.0, depending on the visa type.

• The USA recognises IELTS scores between 6.0 and 7.0 for university admissions.

• France has recently expanded its acceptance of IELTS scores for educational institutions.

• Over 11,000 organizations worldwide accept IELTS as proof of English proficiency.

• Some countries like Germany allow alternatives to IELTS under specific conditions.

Also Read: Everything About IELTS Learning & Exam

What Is IELTS, and For Which Countries IELTS Is Required?

There is always a big question for applicants regarding what IELTS is required for which countries. So, IELTS is accepted by over 11,000 institutions in more than 140 countries. IELTS always assesses the English language skills of non-native English speakers for top university admissions, job placements, and immigration processes. Countries like the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand sometimes provide a list of IELTS is required for which countries where the IELTS is a mandatory requirement for visa applications and permanent residency. 

Also, the IELTS exam structure is divided into two main types: IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training. The IELTS Academic is required for higher education or professional registration, and IELTS General Training is mainly used for migration or work purposes. Both subjects are important for assessing language skills but differ slightly in context.

Whether applicants are planning to study abroad, apply for a skilled visa, or settle permanently, IELTS will always be a stepping stone in your journey.

For Which Countries IELTS Is Required in 2025?

If applicants are planning to move abroad for purposes such as education, work, or immigration, they should understand and go through the list of IELTS is required for which countries, which will be helpful for applicants. Because several countries mandate the IELTS exam as part of their visa and admissions processes. 

Below, we’ll understand the IELTS requirements in several countries like Canada, Australia, the UK, New Zealand, Ireland, and the United States by covering everything from minimum required scores to visa types with specific guidelines to help applicants to plan their next steps with confidence.

Also Read: IELTS Score for Germany

Canada

Canada is one of the country in list of IELTS is required for which countries. IELTS requirements in Canada have become essential for every individual applying for study permits, work visas, and permanent residency programs like Express Entry in Canada. The IELTS score in Canada varies depending on the visa type.

• Study Visa in Canada: The Minimum requirement of the IELTS score is 6.0 overall, with no less than a score of 5.5 (it usually varies by institution)

• Express Entry PR: The minimum requirement for the IELTS score is 6.0 in each skill, with a minimum CLB 7 or Federal Skilled Worker Program.

• Work Permits: It is usually dependent on job type and employer requirements in jobs in Canada.

Australia

Canada is one of the countries on the list of IELTS is required for which countries in which applicants apply across several visa categories, including Skilled Migration, Student Visas, and Professional Licensing.

• Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189): The Minimum requirement of IELTS score is 6.0 in each skill.

• Student Visa: Usually requires a 5.5 to 6.5 score of IELTS overall, depending on the course and university in Australia.

• Professional Registration: Higher scores are required in IELTS, which is basically 7.0+ required for fields like healthcare and law in Australia.

United Kingdom

The United Kingdom is also one of the countries on the list of IELTS required, which countries requires applicants to apply for IELTS for purposes such as academic admissions and immigration under UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) rules.

• IELTS UKVI requirements in the UK: Include a minimum CEFR level B1 or B2,2 depending on the visa type in the United Kindom, which varies based on the purpose of the visa.

• Student Visa: Typically, 6.0–6.5 overall requirements of IELTS for undergraduate or postgraduate programs.

• Spouse/Work Visa: UKVI IELTS General Training with minimum B1 level (IELTS 4.0) for Spouse/Work visa in the United Kingdom.

New Zealand

New Zealand is also one of the countries in the list of IELTS required for which countries in which IELTS requirements are strictly bounded for immigration, education, and work permits.

• Skilled Migrant Category: Requires at least an overall score of 6.5 in IELTS in New Zealand.

• Student Visa: Typically 6.0–6.5 score in IELTS, depending on the course and institution.

• Work Visa: May require an IELTS 5.5 or higher score in IELTS, based on job role and employer criteria.

Also Read: Australia's Bold Step towards IELTS-Free Enrollment

Ireland

Ireland is also one of the countries in the list of IELTS required for which countries where applicants apply for visa requirements for purposes such as international students, work permit seekers, and professionals applying for licensing regarding any work.

• Student Visa: Minimum 5.5–6.5 overall score in IELTS, depending on the level of study in Ireland.

• Employment Permit: English proficiency requirement is often verified with IELTS Academic scores in Ireland IELTS qualification.

• Professional Licensing: Fields like healthcare may require an IELTS score of 7.0 or higher.
  
  

United States

However, the United States is not one of the countries on the list of IELTS is required for which countries because sometimes it’s not mandatory for immigration. However, US universities widely accept the test as proof of English proficiency for international students.

• Undergraduate Programs: Typically, IELTS scores of 6.0–6.5 are required in United States universities.

• Graduate Programs: May require 6.5–7.0 or higher, especially in competitive programs in the US.

• Alternative to TOEFL: IELTS is accepted by over 3,400 institutions in the U.S.'s top universities.

For Which Countries IELTS Is Required With a Minimum Score: 2025 Update

Understanding the list of IELTS is required for which countries is essential for planning your move abroad. Whether it’s for studies, employment, or immigration purposes. Different countries and different institutions vary depending on the visa category or type, job role, or academic level in countries. Below is a detailed table of countries with minimum IELTS scores and purposes generally required in popular destinations.

Also Read: Is 7.5 a Good IELTS Score

For Which Countries IELTS Is Required With a Minimum Score

If applicants are concerned about their IELTS score, which is not good or according to the requirements of IELTS score, then several countries offer opportunities even with lower IELTS scores (as low as 5.5). Whether applicants are applying for foundation programs, diploma courses, or specific visa categories, some of the best destinations or countries maintain flexible IELTS requirement scores. Below is a detailed list of countries with low IELTS requirements and the minimum scores they accept.

For Which Countries IELTS Is Required Where Alternatives Are Available

If applicants are looking to study or migrate to different countries without taking the IELTS, many countries offer IELTS alternatives to prove English language proficiency. These available options of countries may include other standardized tests like TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo, or even proof of education in the English Language. Below is a detailed table of available alternatives, which sometimes are not in the list of IELTS is required for which countries.

Also Read: Is IELTS Required for Germany?

Conclusion

Understanding the list of IELTS is required for which countries is essential for anyone planning to study, work, or migrate abroad. Each country has its standards of tests, score requirements in IELTS, and accepted alternatives for the minimum score of IELTS, which can significantly impact applicant eligibility for visas, top university admissions, and profitable job opportunities. By researching the minimum IELTS scores, available alternatives, and other pathways, applicants can make informed decisions for their better future.

To learn more about what IELTS is required for which countries, visit Terratern now.