Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 29 October 2026
BHMS English levels
From BHMS's FAQ and Postgraduate Diploma page. BHMS states IELTS levels only and gives no band minimums.
| Programme | IELTS | Other tests |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate (BA in Global Business, Hotel and Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts) | 5.0 level or equivalent | Duolingo may be possible if you have no official test |
| Postgraduate Diploma in Business and Hospitality Management | 5.0 or equivalent | As above |
| Other postgraduate programmes (MSc, MBA) | 6.0 level or equivalent | As above |
Official tests and the visa
BHMS says meeting its English level is essential for non-native speakers. If you lack an official test, contact BHMS about an online option such as the Duolingo English Test, but the Swiss Embassy may request an official English test result for your visa application, so an IELTS taken at a test centre is the safer choice.
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Preparatory English
BHMS runs a 5 to 10 week Preparatory English Programme to help you reach the required level. Students without a bachelor's, or with one outside hospitality, can reach the MSc through a Graduate Certificate or Postgraduate Diploma.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your BHMS programme page and in your offer, so check it there before you book a test.
Minimum vs competitive score
Where BHMS Business and Hotel Management School publishes an IELTS score, it is the minimum: the floor an application has to meet to be considered, not a score that guarantees an offer.
Competitive programmes, and courses with far more applicants than places, may expect more than the minimum, and some departments set their own overall or per-skill scores, often for writing or speaking. The course page has the final word, so check it before you book a test.
If you are close to the line, aim for a margin above it: one weak skill can miss the requirement even when the overall band clears it. Not sure where you stand? Take a free IELTS mock test and get a band for each skill.
Frequently asked questions
What IELTS does BHMS need?+
IELTS 5.0 level or equivalent for undergraduate programmes and 6.0 for postgraduate programmes; the Postgraduate Diploma lists 5.0.
Does BHMS accept Duolingo?+
BHMS says you may have the option of an online test such as Duolingo if you have no official test, but the Swiss Embassy may still ask for an official result.
Does BHMS have an English course?+
Yes. A 5 to 10 week Preparatory English Programme.
Does BHMS set IELTS band minimums?+
Its pages state an overall IELTS level only, with no per-band minimums.
Keep reading
Related
- IELTS for Switzerland
- Swiss Hotel Management School IELTS requirement
- Duolingo vs IELTS for universities
- Free IELTS mock test with AI band score
- All 2279 guides
Guide updated on 29 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.
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