Updated: 8 September 2026 · SpecTa Education

What IELTS score do you need to study in the UK, Canada and Malaysia?

For UK undergraduate study, universities usually require IELTS 6.0–6.5; postgraduate 6.5–7.0. Canada has no national minimum—each university sets its own, typically 6.0–6.5 for undergraduate and 6.5–7.0 for postgraduate. Malaysia, including UK/Australian branch campuses, generally requires 6.0–6.5 for undergraduate. Exact scores depend on the programme and university.

IELTS requirements vary by university and programme. Below are typical ranges for Indonesian students applying for 2026 entry.

Key facts

IELTS score UK (undergraduate)6.0–6.5 (Universities set their own; some majors require 7.0+)
IELTS score UK (postgraduate)6.5–7.0 (Competitive programmes can be higher)
IELTS score Canada (typical undergraduate)6.0–6.5 (Not a national minimum; check each university)
IELTS score Canada (typical postgraduate)6.5–7.0 (Component band requirements may apply)
IELTS score Malaysia (typical undergraduate)6.0–6.5 (Includes UK/Australian branch campuses)
Time to improve 0.5–1.0 band2–4 months (Estimate for most Indonesian learners)
UK international tuitionGBP 15,000–35,000/year (London living costs are higher)
Canada proof of fundsCAD 20,635/year (Outside Quebec, single applicant (2024))

IELTS scores for UK universities

For undergraduate (S1) degrees, most UK universities ask for IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall. Some competitive subjects, such as medicine or law, may require 7.0 or higher.

For postgraduate (S2) programmes, the usual range is 6.5–7.0. Always check the exact requirement on the university's course page, as it can vary by department.

  • Use IELTS Academic, not General Training.
  • A UK bachelor's degree is typically 3 years; master's is usually 1 year.

IELTS scores for Canada

Canada does not set a national minimum IELTS score for study permits. Each university decides its own English language requirement.

As a general guide, undergraduate programmes commonly require 6.0–6.5, while postgraduate programmes often require 6.5–7.0. Some universities also set minimum band scores for each component.

  • Always confirm the score on the university's admissions page.
  • A study permit may require proof of funds; the 2024 figure is CAD 20,635 per year for a single applicant outside Quebec.

IELTS scores for Malaysia (including branch campuses)

Malaysian universities, including UK and Australian branch campuses such as Monash, Nottingham and Heriot-Watt, generally require IELTS 6.0–6.5 for undergraduate entry.

Tuition and living costs are lower than in Australia or the UK, making Malaysia a popular affordable option. Student passes are processed through Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS).

  • Branch campus degrees may have the same English requirement as the home campus; verify each campus.
  • Undergraduate programmes are the most common entry point for Indonesian students.

How long to improve your IELTS band

For most Indonesian learners, improving 0.5–1.0 band takes about 2–4 months of focused study. This is an estimate and depends on your starting level and study intensity.

Plan your test date early, especially if you need to meet a conditional offer deadline.

  • Focus on Academic Writing and Speaking, where many students lose points.
  • Use official IELTS practice materials and mock tests.

Which IELTS test type do you need?

Universities require IELTS Academic. General Training is for migration or work purposes and is not accepted for degree study.

Some institutions also accept TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic or Duolingo English Test, but acceptance varies by university and visa rules.

  • Check your university's accepted English tests before booking.
  • For UK student visas, a UKVI-approved test may be needed for below-degree-level courses.

Key takeaways

  • UK: 6.0–6.5 for undergraduate, 6.5–7.0 for postgraduate.
  • Canada: no national minimum; check your university—generally 6.0–6.5 for undergraduate.
  • Malaysia (including branch campuses): generally 6.0–6.5 for undergraduate; more affordable.
  • Start early: a 0.5–1.0 band improvement takes 2–4 months of focused study.
  • Use IELTS Academic, not General Training.

Related questions

Do all UK universities require IELTS 6.0–6.5 for undergraduate?

No. Requirements vary by university and course. Some competitive majors like medicine or law require 7.0+, while foundation programmes may accept lower scores.

Does Canada have a national IELTS requirement?

No. Canada does not set a single score for study permits. Each university chooses its own requirement, typically 6.0–6.5 for undergraduate and 6.5–7.0 for postgraduate.

Can I use IELTS General Training for university?

No. Universities require IELTS Academic. General Training is for migration or work visas, not for degree admission.

How long does it take to raise my IELTS score from 5.5 to 6.5?

For most Indonesian learners, improving 0.5–1.0 band takes 2–4 months of focused study. Actual time depends on your level and study hours.

Are TOEFL or Duolingo accepted instead of IELTS?

Many universities accept TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic or Duolingo English Test, but acceptance varies by institution and visa rules. Check with your university and the relevant visa office.

Sources

Not sure which score to target? Book a free 20-minute consultation with SpecTa Education.

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