International English Language Testing System or IELTS is designed to assess one’s speaking, reading, listening and writing skills. This applies to those countries where English is the primary language of communication. More than 11,000 organisations and universities recognise this proficiency test.
Moreover, it is jointly owned by IDP Education Australia, British Council and Cambridge Language Assessment. This blog will outline the IELTS countries’ list and their eligibility parameters. Keep reading more about the IELTS countries list.
How Many Countries Accept IELTS?
More than 140 countries recognise IELTS. One can choose to appear for it if he\she wishes to pursue higher education or be employed in a professional organisation. These are the IELTS countries list:
1. USA
More than 3000 institutions in the USA accept IELTS. However, it varies from university to university. However, the minimum band requirements range from 6.0 to 7.0. These include California Institute of Technology, Stanford University, University of Pennsylvania, Yale University, Johns Hopkins University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Harvard University, Princeton University, University of Chicago, Columbia University, University of California, Duke University and Cornell University.
2. Canada
It is approved by Citizenship and Immigration Canada, and candidates must score a minimum of 6.0 band and no less than 5.5 in each section. The colleges include but are not limited to the University of Toronto, McGill University, University of British Columbia and the University of Alberta.
3. New Zealand
Candidates must have an overall band score of 6.5, with no less than 5.5 in each section in IELTS and are applicable across Academic and General. Massey University, University of Auckland, University of Otago, University of Canterbury, Victoria University of Wellington recognise this proficiency exam.
4. The U.K.
The U.K. Visa and Immigration accepts IELTS Life Skills, General and Academic Training. Candidates need to score seven overall, no less than 6.5 in each module.
The University of Cambridge, University of Oxford, Imperial College London, London School of Economics and Political Science, University College London, University of Edinburgh, King’s College London, University of Manchester, University of Bristol and the University of Glasgow recognise this score.
5. Australia
The Department of Home Affairs recognises IELTS. Candidates must not score less than 5.5 in each module. The universities that accept IELTS scores include but are not limited to the University of Melbourne, Australian National University, University of Sydney, University of Queensland, Monash University, University of New South Wales, University of Western Australia, University of Adelaide.
6. Ireland
For undergraduate courses, candidates are expected to score between the range of 5.5-6.0, whereas for postgraduate courses, they must score a minimum of 6.5 to be eligible for admissions.
How to Choose the Right Study Abroad Destination?
Choosing which destination to pursue higher education in is challenging and daunting for many. Moreover, it is a rollercoaster ride of emotions, and hence, before one decides their final destination, it is best to research beforehand. This will outline the pointers to remember before deciding on the same:
1. Selecting the right course
One must identify the subject they wish to specialise in. Then, candidates can identify their strengths and weaknesses and list them accordingly. Next, thoroughly research the modules, internships and employment opportunities offered by the program and the country.
It is imperative to check the industries which offer employment once the program is completed. In addition, one must see whether any industrial training is available.
2. Eligibility criteria
One must check whether one meets the eligibility criteria set by the country and the destination. For example, many colleges in Canada offer a postgraduate diploma instead of a Master’s in the selected field. In contrast, in the U.K., two types of Master’s are offered- taught and research.
Moreover, one should check the academic scores expected from the students. One should find out whether one should appear for IELTS or any additional exams such as GRE, GMAT, SAT etc.
3. Costs
Studying abroad comes with a lot of expenses. For example, one needs to consider accommodation, utility, transportation, food etc. In addition, one must consider the cost of the course, which is proportional to its duration. For example, Master’s programs in the U.K. and Ireland are for a year, whereas it can take up to two years in Canada and Australia.
Furthermore, to ease the financial burden, one must research whether scholarships are available at the government and institute levels. This will bring down the costs of one’s education. Finally, once the visa is sanctioned, check whether one can apply for part-time jobs while pursuing their education.
4. Student visa requirements
One must research the visa requirements of the destination. Each country has its own set of requirements for authorisation. However, these costs vary across countries and can take time.
5. Calculating the ROI and value of the Degree in India
As one will be spending a lot of money, time, and effort, it is not unnatural to calculate the return on investment or ROI. One must assess whether the destination one has chosen offers the ROI one desires and increases employability. Moreover, one must consider the value of the degree when one returns to their home country.
6. Check the University Rankings
That is not all. Candidates must also research the university rankings regarding its academic performance, teaching performance, and internationality. Some premium ranking hierarchies include but are not limited to:
- U.S News Global University Rankings
- Times Higher Education World University Rankings
- Q.S. World University Rankings
One must check the IELTS countries list and their requirements. Furthermore, remember these pointers in mind while choosing the study abroad destination.
