For Indian students, the English test is often the biggest hurdle. Do you take IELTS UKVI? Is PTE accepted? Can you go on the basis of your 12th-grade marks?

Here is the 2026 breakdown of what the UK Embassy actually demands.

1. The “SELT” List (What Tests are Safe?)

If you need to take a test, it must be a Secure English Language Test (SELT). As of 2026, the list includes:

• IELTS for UKVI (Academic)

• PTE Academic UKVI

• LanguageCert International ESOL SELT

• Skills for English UKVI (PSI Services)

Crucial Note: A standard “IELTS” certificate is different from “IELTS for UKVI.” The UKVI version has a specific reference number on the report form that allows the visa officer to verify it online. Always book the UKVI version to be safe.

2. What Score Do You Need? (B1 vs. B2)

The Home Office doesn’t look at “Bands”; they look at CEFR Levels (Common European Framework of Reference).

• Degree Level (Bachelor’s/Master’s): You need Level B2.

  • IELTS Equivalent: 5.5 Overall (with minimum 5.5 in each component).

• Below Degree Level (Foundation/Diploma): You need Level B1.

  • IELTS Equivalent: 4.0 Overall (with minimum 4.0 in each component).

Warning: Even if your university accepts a 5.0 in one module, the UKVI rules for Degree Level are strict. You generally need 5.5 in all four modules (Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking) to be safe

My university accepted me with 65% in English. Do I still need IELTS for the visa?

• It depends. There is a difference between University Admission Rules and UKVI Visa Rules. While many universities can “waive” the IELTS test for admission, the UK Home Office still requires you to be at a specific CEFR Level (B1 or B2) to get your visa approved

3. The “HEI Waiver”: Going Without IELTS

This is the most popular route for Indian students. Higher Education Institutions (HEIs)—like most public universities—have the power to “Self-Assess” your English.

• How it works: If you scored 70% to 80% in English in your Class 12th (CBSE/ICSE/Punjab Board), the university can list “Higher Secondary Certificate” as proof of English on your CAS.

• The Benefit: You do not need to upload an IELTS scorecard for your visa application. The CAS is the proof.

• The Catch: This is only allowed for Degree-level courses at trusted universities. Private colleges usually cannot do this.

4. The Hidden Risk: Credibility Interviews

Read this carefully. Even if your CAS says “No IELTS Required,” the UK Visa Officer has the right to interview you.

• The Scenario: You got a waiver because you had 85% in 12th English. But in the Credibility Interview, you struggle to understand the officer’s questions or speak in broken sentences.

• The Result: Visa Refused.

• The Reason: “Despite your documents, I am not satisfied your English is at the required standard for this course.”

Internal Link: Nervous about speaking? Read our guide on [Avoiding Pitfalls in UK Visa Submissions & Credibility Interviews].

External Resources (Official Links)

• GOV.UK Approved SELT Tests: The official list of accepted test centers in India.

• IELTS for UKVI vs. Standard IELTS: British Council’s explanation of the differences.