Working in the UK: When is IELTS required and what score do you need?

Date of last update: 13.08.2025

If you’re planning to move to the United Kingdom for educational or professional purposes, you’ll need to prove your English language proficiency. One of the most commonly accepted tests is the IELTS (International English Language Testing System). However, it’s important to note that there are different versions of the test – the standard IELTS and IELTS for UKVI – and not all of them are suitable for every situation. Before registering for the IELTS exam, the first step is to determine which version is required in your specific case.

Table of contents:

1. Working in the UK – When is IELTS for UKVI required?
2. When is the standard IELTS sufficient?
3. What IELTS scores are required for working in the UK?
4. Summary

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Working in the UK – When is IELTS for UKVI required?

IELTS for UKVI (either Academic or General Training) is a version of the test approved by the UK Home Office as a Secure English Language Test (SELT).

You are required to take this test if:

• You are applying for a work visa, such as the Skilled Worker Visa
• You plan to settle permanently in the UK (e.g., settlement, indefinite leave to remain)
• You are applying for a Student Visa for studies below undergraduate level

When is the standard IELTS sufficient?

In many cases, the UKVI version of the test is not necessary. The standard IELTS test (Academic or General Training) is sufficient in situations such as:

1. Registration in regulated professions (e.g., doctors, nurses) – organizations like the GMC (General Medical Council) and NMC (Nursing and Midwifery Council) accept the standard IELTS Academic
2. Applying for higher education (bachelor’s level or above)

Practical tip: Before booking your exam, always check the specific requirements of the university, employer, or visa authority involved. This will help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure the chosen test will be accepted in your case.

What IELTS scores are required for working in the UK?

The required IELTS scores vary depending on the purpose of the exam:

• Skilled Worker Visa – at least CEFR level B1, which corresponds to a score of 4.0–5.0 in each section of the IELTS for UKVI – General Training
• Higher Education – typically, a score of 6.0–7.5 in the IELTS Academic is required, depending on the university and course
• Doctors (GMC) – IELTS Academic with an overall score of at least 7.5 and no less than 7.0 in each component
• Nurses (NMC) – IELTS Academic with a minimum of 7.0 in Listening, Reading, and Speaking, and at least 6.5 in Writing

Summary

If your goal is to work legally or immigrate to the UK and you need to apply for a visa, you must take IELTS for UKVI, as it is the only version that meets the UK immigration authority’s formal requirements.

On the other hand, if you’re planning to study at a higher education institution or need IELTS for professional registration, the standard IELTS Academic will usually be enough – provided that the institution doesn’t specifically require the UKVI version.

Always verify the requirements of the institution you’re applying to – this will help you avoid misunderstandings and save both time and money.