Study at university in the UK

With Cambridge English Qualifications and IELTS, EU, EEA and Swiss nationals can continue to study, work and live in the UK.

UK immigration changes for EU, EEA and Swiss nationals from January 2021

Most students from outside the UK need a Student visa to study in the UK at undergraduate level, or above.

To apply for a Student visa, you need to meet the English language requirements set by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).

Higher education institutions, who are visa ‘Licence Sponsors’, can choose how to assess a student’s English language proficiency for courses at degree level and above. Almost all UK universities accept C1 Advanced and C2 Proficiency as proof of English language ability.

This means, if you have successfully taken C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency and are accepted by one of these universities, you do not need to take an additional English language exam (e.g. a Secure English Language Test) to support your Student visa application.

What to do next

1. Contact your chosen UK university to confirm they will accept your C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency result as proof of your English language ability.
   
   
2. Apply to your chosen UK university to receive your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).
   
   
3. Use the reference number from your CAS when completing your Student visa application. This number confirms to UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) that you have been accepted to study at a valid UK university and the university (Licence Sponsor) has made its own assessment of your English language ability.

You should always check the latest admissions and visa requirements of your chosen institution.

Find out more about UK Visas and Immigration

If you are planning to take a Foundation, Pathway or other below-degree-level course, you may need to take a Secure English Language Test (SELT) to support your visa application. You should check with the institution directly.

If the institution requires a SELT, we recommend IELTS for UKVI. Students must achieve CEFR level B1 in each skill (4.0 to 5.0 score in IELTS).

IELTS for UKVI must be taken at a UKVI approved test centre: find a test centre.

The latest changes for students came into effect on 5 October 2020. The term ‘Student Route’ has replaced what was previously called ‘Tier 4’.

For more information see Exams for UK visas and immigration.

Check the UK Visa and Immigration website to see the requirements in full.

Check the website of your chosen institution/course for full details about their latest English language requirements and how to apply.

To take your exam, you simply register with an authorised exam centre. Your centre will help you with booking a date and preparation courses.

Your exam centre can find you a course to prepare you for the exam. We also offer a wide range of learning resources, including preparation materials and free resources.

Results for computer-based exams are available in two weeks, and in four weeks for the paper-based exam.

The quickest and easiest way to get your results is to sign up for our FREE Online results service.