The IELTS score you need for a UK visa depends on your route. There is one rule that applies to almost all of them. For a UK visa, you must take IELTS for UKVI, not standard IELTS. For degree study and most new work visas, you need CEFR level B2, which is 5.5 in each skill. For family and settlement routes, you usually need a lower level on a different test. This page explains the score for each UK pathway.
For UK visa and immigration applications, you must take a Secure English Language Test (SELT). For IELTS, that means IELTS for UKVI or IELTS Life Skills, taken at an approved SELT centre. A standard IELTS test is not accepted for a visa, however high your score.
A quick note on the terms. UKVI means UK Visas and Immigration, the part of the Home Office that runs visas. SELT means Secure English Language Test, an approved test for visas. CEFR is the Common European Framework of Reference, a scale from A1 to C2 that the UK uses to set the level. ILR means Indefinite Leave to Remain, which is UK settlement.
What IELTS score do you need for a UK visa?
The UK sets your required level using the CEFR scale. Your IELTS for UKVI score then shows that level. Here are the three main levels and the IELTS score each one needs in every skill.
Remember that the score is checked in each skill, not as an average. You can confirm the official rules on the gov.uk SELT guidance page.
The two UK test types: IELTS for UKVI and Life Skills
For UK visas, IELTS comes in two forms. You choose the one your route needs. Most work and study routes use IELTS for UKVI. Most family and settlement routes use Life Skills.
Four skills, scored 0 to 9
Tests Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. Comes in Academic and General Training.
- For study and work visas
- Gives a band score
- Shows B1, B2 or C1 level
Speaking and listening only
Tests Speaking and Listening, with a Pass or Fail result. Available at A1, A2 and B1.
- For family and settlement
- No band score, just Pass or Fail
- Used with the Life in the UK Test
CEFR levels and IELTS for UKVI scores
This table shows how CEFR levels match IELTS for UKVI scores. You need the score in each of the four skills.
| CEFR level | IELTS for UKVI (each skill) | Common use |
|---|---|---|
| B1 | 4.0 | Below-degree study, settlement, citizenship |
| B2 | 5.5 | Degree study, new Skilled Worker |
| C1 | 7.0 | Some higher-level routes and registers |
IELTS score by UK visa route
Here is the score for each main route. Levels are based on gov.uk guidance for 2026. Always confirm your exact route, because rules change.
| Visa route | Level (2026) | IELTS test and score |
|---|---|---|
| Student, degree or above | B2 | IELTS for UKVI 5.5 each. Your university may set a higher score. |
| Student, below degree | B1 | IELTS for UKVI 4.0 each |
| Skilled Worker or Health and Care (new) | B2 | IELTS for UKVI 5.5 each |
| Partner or parent (first visa) | A1 | IELTS Life Skills A1 |
| Partner extension | A2 | IELTS Life Skills A2 |
| Settlement (ILR) | B1 | Life Skills B1, plus the Life in the UK Test |
| British citizenship | B1 | Same as ILR, plus the Life in the UK Test |
From 8 January 2026, new Skilled Worker, Health and Care, Scale-up and High Potential applicants need CEFR B2, which is IELTS for UKVI 5.5 in each skill. The old level was B1 (4.0 each). People already on the route before that date and only extending may still use B1. Many older guides still show the old number.
IELTS for UK student visas and universities
For a Student visa at degree level, the visa rule is B2, which is IELTS for UKVI 5.5 in each skill. But there are two extra points to know.
First, a UK university that is a licensed student sponsor can often assess your English itself. In that case it may accept a standard IELTS Academic result and confirm it on your CAS, with no separate SELT. Check what your university accepts. Second, universities usually set a higher score than the visa floor. Many ask for 6.5 or 7.0 overall, with a minimum in each skill. You can see the official rule on the gov.uk Student visa English page. Prepare with our free Academic practice tests.
IELTS for settlement (ILR) and citizenship
For settlement (ILR) and British citizenship, you need CEFR B1 in speaking and listening. Most people use IELTS Life Skills B1, which gives a Pass or Fail. You can also use a full IELTS for UKVI score of 4.0 in each skill if it is still valid.
You also need to pass the Life in the UK Test. This is a separate test about UK life and history. Note that from 26 March 2027, the settlement English level is set to rise to B2, so check the current rule when you apply.
Mistakes that cause UK visa refusals
The English language rule is a common reason for UK visa refusals. Avoid these four mistakes.
Taking standard IELTS, not IELTS for UKVI
A standard test is not accepted for a visa. Book IELTS for UKVI or Life Skills at an approved SELT centre.
Using the wrong CEFR level
Each route has its own level. A score that fits one route may be too low for another. Check your route first.
Thinking your overall band counts
The UK checks each skill on its own. One skill below the level means you do not meet the requirement.
Confusing the visa score with a job register
Registers such as the NMC for nurses often need a higher level, around C1. This is separate from the visa.
Key takeaways
- For a UK visa, take IELTS for UKVI or Life Skills, never standard IELTS.
- Degree study and new Skilled Worker visas need B2, which is 5.5 in each skill.
- Family and settlement routes use lower levels, often on IELTS Life Skills.
- From 8 January 2026, new Skilled Worker applicants need B2, not B1.
- The UK checks each skill on its own, not your overall band.
- Universities and job registers often ask for a higher score than the visa.
Frequently asked questions
What IELTS score do I need for a UK student visa?
For degree-level study, the visa rule is CEFR B2, which is IELTS for UKVI 5.5 in each skill. Your university often sets a higher score, such as 6.5 or 7.0 overall. Many universities can also assess your English themselves and accept a standard IELTS Academic result.
What IELTS score do I need for a UK Skilled Worker visa?
From 8 January 2026, new Skilled Worker applicants need CEFR B2, which is IELTS for UKVI 5.5 in each skill. The old level was B1 (4.0 each). People already on the route before that date and only extending may still use B1.
Is standard IELTS accepted for a UK visa?
No. For UK visas you must take a Secure English Language Test. For IELTS, that means IELTS for UKVI or IELTS Life Skills, taken at an approved centre. A standard IELTS test is not accepted for immigration, even with a high score.
What is the difference between IELTS for UKVI and IELTS Life Skills?
IELTS for UKVI tests all four skills and gives a band score from 0 to 9. It is used for study and work visas. IELTS Life Skills tests only speaking and listening, with a Pass or Fail. It is used for family, settlement and citizenship routes.
What IELTS score do I need for UK settlement or ILR?
For settlement (ILR), you need CEFR B1 in speaking and listening. Most people use IELTS Life Skills B1, which gives a Pass or Fail. You also need to pass the Life in the UK Test. From 26 March 2027, this English level is set to rise to B2.
How long is an IELTS for UKVI result valid?
A SELT result is valid for 2 years from the test date. Make sure it is still valid on the day you apply. In some cases, a result used in a past successful UK application can be reused later, even after 2 years.
Sources: UK Visas and Immigration and the Home Office on gov.uk, including the Secure English Language Test guidance and the Student visa knowledge of English page, plus the official IELTS for UKVI requirements, reviewed in June 2026. UK immigration rules change often, so always confirm the current level for your exact route on gov.uk before you book or apply.