Proficiency in the English language is essential and, for courses at degree level or above, the University recognises the following English language qualifications:
- GCSE pass in English at Grade C or above
- IELTS with an overall score of 6.0 with at least 5.5 in each component*. Please note that for those students who do not require a UKVI SELT, USW will also be able to accept the IELTS at-home test when it becomes available
- TOEFL with a score of 72 overall and a minimum of 18 in reading, 17 in listening, 20 in speaking and 17 in writing (including Home Edition)
- Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE): exams taken from January 2015 – overall score of 169 with at least 162 in each component; exams taken before January 2015 – Grade C and no less than borderline in each skill
- Trinity College English Language qualifications: ISE II Distinction or ISE III Pass
- IELCA
- Direct entry: 32 overall score, no less that 30 in each component
- Direct entry needing a higher IELTS score: 35 overall, no less than 30 in each component
- PTE Academic and PTE Academic UKVI with a score of 64 overall and 59 in each component. Please note this must be taken at a PTE test centre
- LanguageCert International ESOL B2 Communicator or SELT Exam with a High pass with a minimum score of 33 in reading, writing and listening, and 38 in speaking
- PSI Service (UK) Ltd Skills for English UKVI B2 (4 component) with a pass in all 4 components (listening, speaking, reading writing)
- Kaplan International Tools for English (KITE) online test: Overall score of 458, with 425 in each component
- Password Skills Plus with an overall score of 6.0 and no less than 5.5 in each component
*Please note that a very small number of USW’s programmes require a higher IELTS (or equivalent) score. Please see the individual course pages for details.
Don’t worry if you do not meet these requirements!
We run a number of courses to prepare you for your studies. Please visit our Centre for International English pages for more information.
IELTS Online
IELTS Online offer three interactive online preparation courses in all four IELTS modules. Enrol on one of these courses
Visas
Please note that international students applying for a Tier 4 student visa who will be studying at a course below degree level (this includes presessional English programmes, International Foundation Programmes, HNDs and foundation degrees) must have a Home Office approved Secure English Language Test.
