Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 31 October 2026
How Gates and Cambridge admission connect
Gates Cambridge says applicants submit one application for admission and funding through the University's portal. Its eligibility page covers citizens of any country outside the UK applying for a PhD, a full-time MLitt or a full-time one-year postgraduate course; MBAs, PGCEs and MASt courses are excluded.
Cambridge's English rules
From the Cambridge postgraduate English page.
| Point | Rule |
|---|---|
| Accepted tests | IELTS Academic, IELTS for UKVI Academic, One Skill Retake, IELTS Online; TOEFL iBT incl. Home Edition; C1 Advanced and C2 Proficiency for some courses |
| Score | Set on each course page |
| When to prove it | Usually after an offer; at application for the LLM and MCL |
| Test age | No more than 2 years before the course starts |
| Combining tests | Not possible |
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Exemptions
You usually do not need a test if you are a national of a majority English-speaking country and were educated there, or you hold a 3-year degree equivalent to a UK bachelor's from such a country, excluding Canada, completed no more than 2 years before your course. The Applicant Portal estimates whether you need a test.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need IELTS before applying for Gates Cambridge?+
Not for most courses. Cambridge usually asks for evidence after it makes an offer; LLM and MCL need it at application.
What IELTS score do I need?+
The score for your course, shown on its Cambridge course page.
Does Cambridge accept IELTS One Skill Retake?+
Yes, it is on the accepted list.
Does Cambridge accept PTE or Duolingo?+
They are not on the accepted list read today.
Keep reading
Related
- University of Cambridge IELTS requirement
- IELTS One Skill Retake
- Rhodes Scholarship IELTS requirement
- All 3605 guides
Guide updated on 31 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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