Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
HKMU IELTS by level
From HKMU's undergraduate requirements for overseas applicants, taught postgraduate entry requirements and research postgraduate application page.
| Programme | IELTS Academic | Other tests |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's (non-local) | 6.0 | TOEFL iBT 79, PBT 550; SAT EBRW 590 |
| Most taught master's | 6.0 | TOEFL iBT 79 (4.0 from 21 Jan 2026); CET-6 430 |
| MA TESOL, PgDip English Studies for Language Teaching | 6.5 | TOEFL iBT 79 (4.5); CET-6 500 |
| Research postgraduate | 6.5, Writing 6.0 | TOEFL iBT 79 with Writing 19, PBT 550 |
School qualifications and exemptions
For undergraduates, HKMU also accepts school English results, including GCE A/AS-level English grade E, GCE O-level English grade C, GCSE or IGCSE English C/4, IB English grade 4, Canadian Grade 12 English 70% and HKDSE English Level 3, as well as a higher diploma or associate degree from an English-medium institution.
For taught master's, the test applies only if your bachelor's was not taught in English. Research degrees waive it for a degree taught in English. PTE and Duolingo are not listed on the pages we read.
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Test rules for postgraduate study
Postgraduate scores must come from a single attempt and be within two years of the test date when you apply. TOEFL iBT Home Edition and IELTS Online are not accepted, and the taught postgraduate FAQ adds that IELTS Indicator is not accepted either. An interview may be held. The entry requirements page also marks a few programmes, such as MA TESOL, as "not applicable" for the test rule while listing scores for them, so confirm with the programme.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your HKMU programme page and in your offer letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Minimum vs competitive score
Where Hong Kong Metropolitan University (HKMU) 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 HKMU need?+
IELTS Academic 6.0 for bachelor's and most taught master's, 6.5 for MA TESOL, and 6.5 with Writing 6.0 for research degrees.
Does HKMU accept IELTS Online?+
Not for postgraduate study. IELTS Online, IELTS Indicator and TOEFL iBT Home Edition are not accepted.
Do I need IELTS for an HKMU master's if my degree was in English?+
No. The taught postgraduate test requirement applies when your bachelor's degree was not taught in English.
How long is IELTS valid for HKMU?+
Two years from the test date.
Keep reading
Related
- IELTS for Hong Kong
- HKBU IELTS requirement
- PolyU IELTS requirement
- How long is IELTS valid?
- All 3112 guides
Guide updated on 30 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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