What you need to know
Our courses are delivered in English. You need a sufficient level of English to complete your course and take part in classes and discussions, and submit assessments such as coursework and examinations..
You need to demonstrate your English language level by taking an approved English language test and sending us your results. Different courses need different levels of English, usually measured on the International English Language Test System (IELTS). You can see specific course requirements on the relevant course page.
International students who need to obtain a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) Student Route Visa are required to meet the English Language requirements as outlined in the University's English Language Policy for UKVI students.
Some countries are exempt from meeting these English language requirements. The list of exempt countries is below.
If you need to improve your English before your course starts, you can join one of our Pre-Sessional English programmes.
Which English test should you take?
Many English tests are available, however you need to take one of the tests we recognise to join us.
The University applies a two-year validity at the point of the course start date for all Secure English Language Tests (SELTs) as determined by the Home Office, and to English tests that are not recognised as SELTs. The current list of approved alternative English Language tests is below.
Please note that an additional English language interview may be required for acceptance of some English Language tests.
Due to accreditation requirements, some courses have restrictions on accepted English language.
English Language Tests
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) measures the language proficiency of people who want to study or work where English is used as a language of communication. It uses a 9-band scale to clearly identify levels of proficiency, from non-user (band score 1) through to expert (band score 9).
For entry to University programmes you would be required to take the Academic IELTS test. The University accepts IELTS One Skill Retake.
The University does not accept IELTS Academic Online or IELTS General Training.
If you want to take a pre-sessional English course or a Foundation course, you must take your IELTS test at an approved UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) test centre.
You can book your IELTS test for UK Visas and Immigration here.
Generally, you need to have the following scores for different course levels:
Foundation courses
If you are interested in a Foundation or pathway course you need a minimum of IELTS band 5.5, with no component below 5.5.
Undergraduate courses
For most of our Bachelor's degrees, you need a minimum of IELTS band 6.0, with no component below 5.5. Some courses, especially those with a high level of discussion and writing, require higher scores. You can see course-specific details on the individual course pages.
Postgraduate course
For most of our Master's degrees, you need a minimum of IELTS band 6.5–7.0, with no component below 6.0. Some courses and PhDs require higher scores. You can see course-specific details on the individual course pages.
IELTS scores 5.0–6.5 are equivalent to a Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) level of B2, and a score of 7.0 is equivalent to a CEFR level of C1.
The TOEFL iBT® (Internet-based test), delivered via the Internet, measures your ability to use and understand English at university level. It also evaluates how well you combine your reading, listening, speaking and writing skills to perform academic tasks. The University of Portsmouth also accepts valid and verifiable TOEFL MyBest Scores.
As part of this test, you'll be asked for your institution choice to be a score recipient. Quote "3234" in this section to have your TOEFL score sent directly to us by the Educational Testing Service.
Generally, you need to have the following scores for different course levels:
Foundation courses
If you're interested in a Foundation or pathway course you need a score of 72 with a minimum of:
- 18 in Reading
- 17 in Listening
- 20 in Speaking
- 17 in Writing
Remember, if you're joining us on a Foundation or pre-sessional English course, you must take an approved UK Visas and Immigration test as well. The TOEFL is not recognised by UKVI.
Undergraduate courses
For most of our Bachelor's degrees, you need a score of 79 with a minimum of:
- 18 in Reading
- 17 in Listening
- 20 in Speaking
- 17 in Writing
Some courses, especially those with a high level of discussion and writing, require higher scores. You can see course-specific details on the individual course pages.
Postgraduate courses
For most of our Master's degrees, you need a score of 91 with a minimum of:
- 20 in Reading
- 19 in Listening
- 21 in Speaking
- 20 in Writing
Some courses, especially those with a high level of discussion and writing, require higher scores. You can see course-specific details on the individual course pages.
Please find more details of this test including available locations and how to register on the ETS website. The required score on this test is the same as usual – please find details of the required TOEFL score in the section above.
The Pearson Test of English is another computer based test. It's based on real-life English skills you need to communicate effectively, using academically relevant tasks and measuring skills in an integrated way.
Please make sure you nominate University of Portsmouth to view your certificate online. This lets our admissions team verify your results. Generally, you need to have the following scores for different course levels:
Foundation courses
If you are interested in a Foundation for September 2025 entry, or pathway, course you need at least 59 points, with a minimum of 59 in each component. PTE is recognised by the UKVI and so can be used if you're joining us on a Foundation or pre-sessional English course.
Undergraduate courses
For most of our Bachelor's degrees September 2025 entry, you need at least 62 points, with a minimum of 59 in each component. Some courses, especially those with a high level of discussion and writing, require higher scores. You can see course-specific details on the individual course pages.
Postgraduate courses
For most of our Master's degrees September 2025 entry, you need at least 65 points, with a minimum of 62 in each component. Some courses and PhDs require higher scores. You can see course-specific details on the individual course pages.
The PTE Academic Online is not accepted.
Trinity College London provides Secure English Language Tests (SELTs) in 10 locations across the UK. These tests are approved for applications to UKVI for visas, British Citizenship and Leave to Remain.
You need an Integrated Skills in English (ISE) Level III with a pass in all 4 components to take one of our undergraduate or postgraduate courses.
C1 Advanced, formerly known as Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE), is a Cambridge English Qualification. It's an in-depth, high-level qualification that shows you have the language skills that universities are looking for.
Generally, you need to have the following scores for different course levels:
Foundation courses
If you're interested in a Foundation, or pathway, course you need an overall score of 162 with no component score less than 162.
Undergraduate courses
For most of our Bachelor's degrees, you need an overall score of 169 with no component score less than 162.
Some courses, especially those with a high level of discussion and writing, require higher scores. You can see course-specific details on the individual course pages.
Postgraduate courses
For most of our Master's degrees, you need an overall score of 176 with no component score less than 169.
Some courses and PhDs require higher scores. You can see course-specific details on the individual course pages.
Please see the Duolingo website for score equivalencies.
Please note you will need to share your Duolingo results with the University.
Offer conditions will be updated following a credibility interview or interview with one of the University of Portsmouth recruitment team.
The Certificate of Proficiency (ECPE) constitutes an official certification of knowledge of the English language at the C2 level, as outlined by the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR).
It is awarded by the University of Michigan, one of the leading US Universities in the field of linguistic research, with lengthy experience in establishing and developing a broad range of English language examinations.
The ECPE is officially recognised in Greece by the state (Supreme Council for Civil Personnel Selection) and the private sector as a C2 level certification of English language competence. It is also recognised in several countries and can be used for academic and professional purposes.
Generally, you need to have an average score of 750 pass (P) or higher for all courses.
Please note only the Secure English Language Test centre (SELT) exams can be accepted. The LanguageCert online version is not accepted. LanguageCert International ESOL is accepted until April 1 2024.
LanguageCert International ESOL is accepted up until April 1 2024.
LanguageCert offers UK Home Office approved SELT exams for UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration) worldwide, covering all visa type requirements.
The benchmark for entry is:
- Equivalent to IELTS 4.5: B1 Achiever B1 Overall Pass in the LanguageCert (SELT) (minimum Pass in all skills)
- Equivalent to IELTS 5.0: B1 Achiever B1 Overall High Pass in the LanguageCert (SELT) (minimum Pass in all skills)
- Equivalent to IELTS 5.5: B2 Communicator Pass in the LanguageCert (SELT) (minimum Pass in all skills)
- Equivalent to IELTS 6.0: B2 Communicator High Pass in the LanguageCert (SELT) (minimum Pass in all skills)
- Equivalent to IELTS 6.5: B2 Communicator High Pass in the LanguageCert (SELT) (minimum Pass in all skills)
LanguageCert offers UK Home Office approved SELT exams for UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration) worldwide, covering all visa type requirements.
LanguageCert Academic offers UK Home Office approved SELT exams for UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration) worldwide, covering all visa type requirements.
LanguageCert Academic exams are mapped to the Common European Framework for Languages (CEFR) which reports scores on a 0-100 scale. LanguageCert Academic assesses 4 skills (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking) and is accepted for work and study visas, available at the following CEFR levels: B1, B2, C1, C2.
The benchmark for entry is:
- Equivalent to IELTS 4.0 = LanguageCert Academic 45
- Equivalent to IELTS 4.5 = LanguageCert Academic 50
- Equivalent to IELTS 5.0 = LanguageCert Academic 55
- Equivalent to IELTS 5.5 = LanguageCert Academic 60
- Equivalent to IELTS 6.0 = LanguageCert Academic 65
- Equivalent to IELTS 6.5 = LanguageCert Academic 70
- Equivalent to IELTS 7.0 = LanguageCert Academic 75
- Equivalent to IELTS 7.5 = LanguageCert Academic 80
To take this English Language Test, please register on the Oxford ELLT website.
See the ELLT website for score equivalencies.
Oxford ELLT are now offering an exclusive University of Portsmouth discount of 10%. Please visit the website and enter the discount code.
Discount code: UOP10 (10% discount)
Skills for English is a Secure English Language Qualification (SELT), approved by the UK Home Office, that’s assured by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) and delivered via a network of test centres in over 120 countries by PSI Services.
For entry to the University of Portsmouth, requirements on Skills for English SELT at all of the four skills comprise:
- Foundation courses: minimum B2 Pass
- Undergraduate courses: minimum B2 Pass
- Postgraduate courses: minimum B2 Pass with Merit
For more information about what’s on the Skills for English tests, see the Skills for English website. If you’d like to book a Skills for English SELT test, visit the Book my skills for English website.
We are currently offering an exclusive discount which gives students 10% off B1 and B2 tests and 33% off C1 tests. Visit the Skills for English website for more information.
Minimum achievement of Band 8 overall, with no component (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking) below Band 8. An interview is also required to verify the scores/qualification. Some courses, especially those with a high level of discussion and writing, require higher scores. You can see course-specific details on the individual course pages.
The University of Portsmouth reserves the right to request further evidence of English language proficiency or conduct additional applicant checks at any stage of the application process.
Countries exempt from English language requirements
If you are a national of, or have completed a degree-level qualification from one of the countries listed below, as recognised by UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI), you may be exempt from the UK Visa and Immigration English language requirements.
You will still need to provide acceptable evidence of English language proficiency to meet the academic requirements for your course.
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Australia
- The Bahamas
- Barbados
- Belize
- The British Overseas Territories
- Dominica
- Grenada
- Guyana
- Ireland
- Jamaica
- Malta
- New Zealand
- St Kitts and Nevis
- St Lucia
- St Vincent and the Grenadines
- Trinidad and Tobago
- UK
- USA
If you are a National of Canada, you will need to provide evidence of English Language proficiency to meet the academic requirements of your course.
In addition to this, if you hold a Bachelor Degree from the UK or one of the above countries and this course was delivered on campus, this may meet the English Language requirement.
Other English tests and qualifications
We also accept other standard English tests and qualifications, as long as they meet the minimum requirements of your course. You can find these listed below. The relevant qualifications are also mentioned on the individual country page.
Alternative English Language Qualifications
- A or AS Level – Grade D or above in English
- ESOL Skills for Life (when all three components completed) – Level 1
- GCSE – Grade C or above in English Language
- International Baccalaureate Diploma – Standard or Higher Level English Language minimum grade 4
- International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme – Minimum grade 4–7 in English Language
- Pearson and Cambridge iGCSE – Grade C or above in English
- NCUK – Overall grade C required and grade C minimum in all components
- Overseas course delivered in English (NCQF 5 or above) – Evidence must be provided from the institution/provider that the course was fully taught in English for the duration of the study period. We apply a five year validity to the date the qualification was awarded, and a region specific approach to acceptance. Please contact our regional offices and advisers for confirmation.
- TESA (Test of English for Studies Abroad) – See published IELTS requirements on our course pages
- Botswana Secondary School Certificate – Grade C or above in English
- Cameroon General Certificate of Education Ordinary Level – Grade C or above in English
- Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) – Grade C or above in English
- Malawi School Certificate of Education (MSCE): 1–6 English
- Mauritius/Cambridge GCE O Level subject 1125 – GCE O Level grade C (Oral 2) for entry to most UG programmes
- Namibia Senior Secondary Certificate Ordinary Level/Higher Level – Grade C or Grade 3 or above in English
- Nigeria Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE/NECO) – Grade C6 or above in English (with NECO scratchcard to verify the results)
- South Africa National Senior Certificate – Grade C or above in First Language English or Home Language
- Tanzania Certificate of Secondary Education – Grade C or above in English
- Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) – Grade C or above or between 1–6
- West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) – Grade C6 or above in English (with a WASSCE/WAEC scratchcard to verify the results)
- Zambia School Certificate / General Certificate of Education – Grade 1-6 in English
- Zimbabwe General Certificate of Education at Ordinary Level – Grade C or above in English
- Brunei/Cambridge GCE O Level subject 1120 – GCE O Level grade C (Oral 2) for entry to most UG programmes
- China TOEFL ITP - Level 1 Test with a minimum 54 points (Listening Comprehension), minimum 53 points (Structure & Written Expression), minimum 56 points (Reading Comprehension), 58 points (Speaking Test). More information can be found here
- Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) – An overall score of 4 with a minimum of 3 in each component
- India Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) / Standard 12 – 75% or above in English (Not accepted if from Punjab, Haryana, Gujarat or Uttrakhand)
- Malaysia SPM (Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia) – Grade B+ or higher in English / CEFR B2
- Malaysia/Cambridge GCE O Level subject 1119 - Grade C or higher
- Singapore/Cambridge GCE O Level subject 1128 – GCE O Level grade C (Oral 2) for entry to most UG programmes
- Austria Reifeprufungszeugnis or Maturazeugnis - 2 / Gut in English (where both written and oral exams taken)
- Bulgaria State Maturity Exam in English - 5.5 or above
- Croatia Svjedodžba o Maturi - 4 in Foreign Language (English) subject
- Cyprus Apolytirion – 16 or above in English
- Czech Republic Vysvědčení o maturitní zkoušce (Secondary School Leaving Certificate) – Grade 2 or above in English
- Denmark Hojere Handelseksamen (HHX) - 7 in English
- European Baccalaureate – Where English is a compulsory subject or a full option with a score of 7.5
- Finland Ylioppilastutkinto / Studentexamen (Matriculation Examination) – Grade 4 or above in English
- France Option Internationale du Baccalauréat – Grade 12 or above in English
- German Zeugnis der Allgemeinen Hochschulreife / Abitur – Grade 10 or above in English
- Latvia Atestatas – 80% or above in State Exam English
- Lithuania State Exam – 75 or above
- Malta Secondary Education Certificate – 1–5 in English Language
- Malta Intermediate or Advanced Matriculation Examination – C or above in English
- Netherlands Voorbereidend Wetenschappelijk Onderwijs (VWO) (Gymnasium A/B and Atheneum A/B) diploma – Grade 8 or above in English
- Norway Vitnemål fra den Videregående Skole (Leaving Certificate from Upper Secondary School) – Grade 4 or above in English
- Poland Matura – 65% or above in Extended Level English
- Portugal Diploma/Certificado Nível Secundário de Educação – Grade 14 or above in English
- Romania Diplomă de Bacalaureat (Baccalaureate Diploma) – 6 or above in English
- Slovakia Vysvědčení o maturitní zkoušce/Maturita Grade 2 or above in English
- Spain Título de Bachillerato - 9 in English
- Swedish Fullständigt Slutbetyg från Gymnasieskolan or Högeskoleförberedande Examen - mark of Grade C/15/20 in English 6
- Australian high school qualifications across the country (which include English) as equivalent to A or AS-level English (or at least GCSE English) - with grade C or above
- Canada Secondary School Diploma (Ontario only, other territories will be considered) – Grade 10 English above 60%
- USA High School Graduation Diploma English Grade C or above (where English has been studied to Grade 12) – English Grade C or above (where English has been studied to Grade 12)
- Other Commonwealth Countries – Cambridge GCE O Level subject 1123 – GCE O Level grade C (Oral 2)