Does USA accept IELTS score?
Asked by: Sandrine Runolfsdottir | Last update: August 22, 2025Score: 4.1/5 (62 votes)
IELTS is the top choice for many learners at the thousands of US graduate and professional programs that accept IELTS scores. In addition to the above resources available to all US test takers, you can explore how IELTS supports graduate scholars through the Andrea Scott International Graduate Scholarship.
Is IELTS score valid in the USA?
Yes, you can use your IELTS scores to apply to multiple universities in the USA, as long as the scores are within the validity period, which is typically 2 years from the test date. Do I need to submit my IELTS scores with my university application?
Can I go to the USA with only IELTS?
Yes. Over 3,400 educational institutions in the USA accept IELTS test scores. However, the exact IELTS score requirements ultimately will depend on your university and program.
Can I get an USA visa with IELTS?
Students need to achieve a minimum IELTS score to study and even for a USA student visa. The IELTS Band Requirements for the USA study visa are 6.5 overall with 6.0 scores in each section.
Is IELTS accepted in USA or TOEFL?
Most American universities accept TOEFL scores because they are specifically tailored for academic environments. While many institutions also accept IELTS scores, there are still some that do not recognize them for certain programs.
Universities in USA & IELTS score they accept
What kind of IELTS do I need for USA?
A minimum IELTS score of 6.5 band is generally required for educational institutions in the USA. To obtain a student visa for studying in the USA, it is necessary to demonstrate proficiency in the English language.
Is IELTS harder than TOEFL?
The difficulty level of these exams is subjective; however, many students consider IELTS easier than TOEFL, especially the reading sections. In IELTS, the reading question samples are from magazines, books, journals and newspapers. The TOEFL reading passages are from academic textbooks and academic publications.
Is 7.5 a good IELTS score?
Generally, a good IELTS band score is one that meets or exceeds the requirements set by the institution or organisation you are applying to. Commonly, a score of 6.5 to 7.5 is considered good for university admission, while a score of 7.0 or above is often required for professional registration or immigration purposes.
Which English test is required for the USA?
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
It's the most common requirement for universities in the USA, but it's also accepted in many other institutions worldwide.
Is IELTS accepted for visa?
The Australian government's Department of Home Affairs accepts IELTS as proof of English language proficiency for all visa categories. In fact, IELTS is the only test accepted by all immigration authorities of Australia, the UK, New Zealand and Canada.
Can I go USA without IELTS?
No, a US study visa does not specifically require IELTS. However, you must provide proof of acceptance from a US university, which may have its own English proficiency requirements.
Which country accept only IELTS?
Many nations throughout the world accept the IELTS General for a variety of reasons, including as immigration, employment, and education. Furthermore, IELTS General is recognised in the United States, Ireland, Singapore, South Africa, and Canada in addition to the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada.
Is IELTS difficult?
The IELTS is little challenging exam but not the tiughest one. If one comes without preparation then any exam is difficult. Preparing for the IELTS exam includes focusing on different areas of the English language. The difficulty level of skill may vary from a person to person.
How long is IELTS valid?
IELTS scores (TRF or eTRF) are typically valid for two years from the date of the test. After this period, the scores may no longer considered official for most purposes, including university admissions and some visa applications.
What is the English test for US visa?
C1 Advanced and IELTS accepted by USA universities, colleges and employers. C1 Advanced and IELTS are accepted as reliable proof of English language ability by many US universities and colleges.
Do you need IELTS for work permit?
Generally, open work permits such as those for spouses, those issued under public policies and those issued under the International Experience Class do not require IELTS. On the other hand, those backed by a job offer, such as those supported by an LMIA are more likely to require proof of language proficiency.
Is IELTS accepted in the USA?
IELTS is globally recognised – IELTS is recognised by over 12,500 organisations around the world and the vast majority of American institutions that require proof of English ability. IELTS is fair, accurate, and comprehensive : IELTS teaches the four core English skills: Speaking, Writing, Reading and Listening.
Which test is best for the USA?
The Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) is one of the most important assessments for students in the United States. SAT scores are accepted by nearly every university in the United States. The minimum SAT score in the United States is 1000, but this might vary greatly from course to course and university to university.
Is IELTS required for a USA work visa?
For those planning to work in the United States, you'll be happy to know that there is no English language requirement or IELTS certification needed for applying to be a permanent resident.
What is a good IELTS score for the USA?
Ideally, the acceptable IELTS score to study in the USA is 6.5 band overall, however, to get a scholarship, students should aim a little higher and try to achieve an overall score of 7 or above with not less than 6.5 in each module.
Is IELTS 7 hard?
Is It Hard to Get 7 in the IELTS? Achieving a score of 7 in the IELTS test, particularly in the production skills of Writing and Speaking, can be challenging. Many candidates face difficulty in making the leap from 6.5 to 7.
Is 9 a good score in IELTS?
IELTS Band Score: 9 — Skill Level: Expert
The test taker has fully operational command of the language.
Which is cheaper IELTS or TOEFL?
The examination fees for both the IELTS and TOEFL exams usually fall within the range of $200 to $250. However, the exact cost can vary based on the country where the exam is taken. Factors such as local currency value, administrative expenses, and test center fees can influence the overall price.
Which ielts test is the hardest?
Both IELTS Academic and General Training tests are more or less similar. However, IELTS Academic can be said to be on the tougher side.
Can IELTS be taken online?
You can take IELTS Online on your own computer or laptop. IELTS Online uses a combination of human and artificial intelligence (AI) input to ensure remote proctoring of online testing. You will need to install the Inspera Exam Portal software before you take the test, which is the platform that IELTS Online runs on.