Can a UK university waive IELTS for your Student visa?

Appendix Student rule ST 13.3 says that where the sponsor has assessed your English, it must state this and the method of assessment on the CAS (Appendix Student). Home Office caseworkers check the CAS to see what level is required and what assessment was carried out (caseworker guidance).

The rules do not list which methods a university may use. It might rely on its own test, an interview, previous study or a test that is not on the SELT list. What matters for the visa is that the CAS records the assessment and confirms B2.

Courses below degree level need B1, and the self-assessment route in EL 8.1 applies only at degree level or above, so these students prove English another way, usually with a SELT. The same applies if your sponsor is not a higher education provider with a track record of compliance.

For a combined pre-sessional course where you start at B1, rule ST 15.3 says the B1 must be assessed "by a method other than assessment by the student sponsor" (Appendix Student). Caseworkers can also weigh concerns about your English when they assess whether you are a genuine student. Immigration rules change, sometimes at short notice. Confirm the current rule on the gov.uk Student visa English page before you book a test or apply. This guide is general information, not legal or immigration advice.