English Language requirements
How to demonstrate that you have the required level of English to study with us
Who needs an English Language qualification?
If you're an international student who’s about to start studying with us, you may need to demonstrate that your English language skills are sufficient to study for a degree at a UK university.
Unless you’re a national of a majority English speaking country, you'll need to submit an English language qualification that's recognised by the University. Your English language qualifications must have been achieved within two years of the course start date.
Study English in your home country
If you need to improve your English language score or you want to be more prepared before you start your studies, there are many opportunities to study English in your home country.
The British Council provides English language teaching and preparation for the IELTS examination. Our Regional Offices can also help you find accredited IELTS examination centres in your country.
Tests and scores we accept
If you have a qualification that's not listed here, please contact our International Admissions team and we'll consider your qualifications on an individual basis: internationaladmissions@bathspa.ac.uk.
Undergraduate students
IELTS
You’ll need 6.0 overall. This must include a minimum of 5.5 in Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing.
We also accept the IELTS Online Test. Please note that this test is only available in a few countries/regions. We advise you to check the IELTS Online website to confirm if this test is available to you.
TOEFL iBT
A total of 72, to include a minimum 18 in Reading, 17 in Listening, 20 in Speaking, and 17 in Writing. Please send your scores to the University through your TOEFL iBT account online account.
PTE Level B2
The required score is 59 overall with at least 55 each in Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing.
Please send your scores to the University (Bath Spa University > All Departments > All Programs) through your Pearson online account. The online results should then take 2 working days to come through to the University.
Duolingo
110 overall, with a minimum of 95 in each component, including sub-scores.
Kaplan Test of English
This must include a minimum overall score of 426 (Main Flight) with all four components at 396.
Postgraduate students
IELTS
Depending on your course, you’ll need either IELTS 6.5 or 7.0. For visa nationals this must include a minimum of 5.5 or 6.0 in Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing. Check the course page for more information.
We're now accepting the IELTS Online Test as well. Please note that this test is only available in a few countries/regions, and we'll advise you to check the IELTS Online website to confirm if this test is available to you.
TOEFL iBT
This must include a total of 75, to include a minimum of 18 in Reading, 17 in Listening, 20 in Speaking, and 17 in Writing.
Please send your scores to the University through your TOEFL iBT account online account.
PTE Level C1
Our postgraduate courses have differing requirements depending on the course. For specific information please see the course webpage.
- For courses requiring IELTS 6.5, the PTE required score is 59 overall with at least 59 in each of Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing.
- For courses requiring IELTS 7.0, the PTE required score is 67 overall with at least 62 in each of Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing.
Please send your scores to the University (Bath Spa University > All Departments > All Programs) through your Pearson online account. The online results should then take 2 working days to come through to the University.
Duolingo
120 overall, with a minimum of 95 in each component, including sub-scores.
Please provide your Candidate ID Number and Candidate secret number to allow the results to be verified online.
Kaplan Test of English
This must include a minimum overall score of 459 (Main Flight) with all four components at 396 for courses that require an IELTS score of 6.5, and an overall score of 495 (Main Flight) with all four components at 396 for courses that require an IELTS score of 7.0.
Alternative qualifications
A degree from a majority English speaking country
To qualify, you must hold a degree awarded by a recognised institution in a majority English speaking country, listed under 'Exceptions' on the Student Route visa page.
West African Examinations Council
This requires a minimum of 5 subjects (one of which must include English) at C6 level.
iGCSE
This requires a minimum of 6 subjects, at A*-C including English, at A*-C.
International Baccalaureate
This requires a score of 32 overall, and it must include English Language (Higher or Standard) with a minimum of Higher 5.
Foundation years and A-levels
These could have been studied in the UK or in a majority English speaking country.
Cambridge CAE and CPE
Undergraduate - 169 overall with no less than 162 in each skill.
Pre-Sessional English courses
If your qualification doesn't meet our English language requirements, you can join our Pre-Sessional English course before you begin your degree. These courses improve your English language skills and confidence, so that you have the best chance to succeed.
Applicants applying for a Pre-Sessional English course will require a Home Office approved 'Secure English Language Test (SELT). There are two qualifying qualifications:
English Language support while you study
Studying in a different language can be a challenge, adding to the pressure of completing your degree. We can support you throughout your journey at Bath Spa University.
The English Language Unit
The English Language Unit is a free service that runs throughout the year, available to all students whose first language is not English. Through one-to-one tutorials and short courses, the ELU can help you improve your English skills and confidence in writing and speaking.
The Academic Skills service (ASk)
The University’s Academic Skills service (ASk) offers individual sessions, workshops and courses to help you improve your academic skills. They can help with the transition to university and returning to your studies after a break. They cover a variety of topics, including:
- Reading and writing
- Referencing
- Digital literacy
- Critical thinking.