Can You Study Abroad with a Low IELTS Score? Yes, You Can!
Scored lower than expected on your IELTS exam? Don’t worry! A low IELTS score doesn’t mean the end of your study abroad dreams. Many top universities across the world accept students with flexible English proficiency requirements—and some even offer alternative ways to prove your language skills!
If you’re looking for universities that accept low IELTS scores in the U.S., Canada, the U.K., Australia, and Europe, this blog is for you. Read on to find out how you can still secure admission to a great university despite a low IELTS score.
1. Universities That Accept Low IELTS Scores in the U.S.
Many U.S. universities understand that English proficiency is more than just a test score. That’s why they offer:
✔️ Conditional admissions with English language courses
✔️ Alternative tests like TOEFL, Duolingo, or Pearson PTE
✔️ English placement tests upon arrival
Some universities that accept a low IELTS score:
✅ University of New Orleans – Minimum IELTS: 5.5
✅ California State University (multiple campuses) – Minimum IELTS: 5.5-6.0
✅ Kent State University – Minimum IELTS: 5.5
2. Universities in Canada Accepting Low IELTS Scores
Canada is one of the most popular study destinations, but many students worry about high IELTS score requirements. The good news? Several top universities accept low IELTS scores or offer English preparation programs to help students qualify.
Some universities that accept a low IELTS score:
✅ Brock University – Minimum IELTS: 6.0
✅ University of Saskatchewan – Minimum IELTS: 5.5
✅ Memorial University of Newfoundland – Minimum IELTS: 5.5
3. Universities in the U.K. with Low IELTS Requirements
The U.K. offers world-class education, and many universities provide IELTS waivers or alternative language tests. Some also accept students with a lower IELTS score on the condition that they complete a pre-sessional English course.
Top universities with low IELTS requirements:
✅ University of Essex – Minimum IELTS: 5.5
✅ University of Portsmouth – Minimum IELTS: 5.5
✅ University of Bedfordshire – Minimum IELTS: 5.5
4. Australian Universities Accepting Low IELTS Scores
Australia is another popular destination for national students. Many universities offer English language support programs for students who do not meet the standard IELTS requirement.
Universities that accept a low IELTS score:
✅ University of Southern Queensland – Minimum IELTS: 5.5
✅ Charles Darwin University – Minimum IELTS: 5.5
✅ University of Canberra – Minimum IELTS: 5.5
5. European Universities with Low IELTS Requirements
Many European universities either accept a lower IELTS score or allow students to prove their English proficiency through alternative means, such as previous education in English or interviews.
Examples of universities with flexible IELTS requirements:
✅ University of Geneva (Switzerland) – IELTS: 5.5
✅ University of Amsterdam (Netherlands) – IELTS: 5.5-6.0
✅ Sapienza University of Rome (Italy) – IELTS: 5.5
What If Your IELTS Score Is Too Low? Kandor Has the Solution!
If your IELTS score isn’t meeting university requirements, don’t panic! Kandor’s AI-powered IELTS prep app is designed to help national students like you improve faster and achieve their target band score.
Why Use Kandor?
✔️ AI-driven feedback on speaking and writing
✔️ Full-length IELTS mock tests with real-time scoring
✔️ Personalized study plans to improve weak areas
✔️ Exam simulations to reduce test-day anxiety
With Kandor, students improve their IELTS score quickly and move closer to their dream universities.
