RCVS minimum scores
From the RCVS English language requirements page, read in October 2026. You must reach the required scores in all four areas.
| Test | Overall | Components | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| IELTS Academic or IELTS UKVI Academic (paper or online) | 7.0 or higher | 7.0 or higher in three; 6.5 minimum in one | Less than two years old when you submit |
| OET, veterinary version only (paper or online) | Grade B | B or higher in three; C+ minimum in one | Less than two years old when you submit |
Score patterns the RCVS accepts and rejects
These are the RCVS's own IELTS examples. A score below 6.5 in any component fails, however high the overall. A free timed mock on BandLadder gives you a band score to check against these rules before you book.
| Overall / Listening / Reading / Speaking / Writing | RCVS decision |
|---|---|
| 7.0 / 7.0 / 7.0 / 7.0 / 7.0 | Accepted |
| 7.0 / 6.5 / 7.0 / 7.0 / 7.5 | Accepted |
| 7.5 / 7.0 / 8.0 / 7.0 / 6.5 | Accepted |
| 6.5 / 7.0 / 7.0 / 6.5 / 6.0 | Not accepted |
| 7.0 / 6.5 / 6.0 / 7.0 / 7.5 | Not accepted |
| 7.5 / 6.0 / 7.0 / 8.0 / 8.0 | Not accepted |
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Take a free scored IELTS mock →Retakes and exemptions
If you miss the scores, the RCVS lets you retake individual components rather than the whole test, but you must still meet the overall score as well as the component scores. Upload a good scan of your Test Report Form (photocopies are not accepted) or have the test centre post it to the RCVS.
You may be exempt if your veterinary degree was taught and examined entirely in English. Your university must confirm directly to the RCVS that all teaching and examinations were in English and that English was the sole language of instruction. Regulators change these rules, sometimes at short notice. Confirm the current scores on the RCVS page before you book a test.
Frequently asked questions
What IELTS score do vets need for the RCVS?+
IELTS Academic or UKVI Academic with 7.0 overall, 7.0 or higher in three components and at least 6.5 in the fourth.
Does the RCVS accept IELTS Online?+
Yes. The RCVS lists IELTS UKVI Academic or Academic, available as paper or online tests.
Can I retake one IELTS component for the RCVS?+
Yes. You can retake individual components, but you must still meet the overall score requirement.
Is OET accepted by the RCVS?+
Yes, the veterinary version only: grade B overall, B or higher in three components and C+ minimum in one.
How long is an IELTS result valid for the RCVS?+
Results must be less than two years old when you submit your application.
Keep reading
Related
- IELTS for vets in Australia (AVBC)
- IELTS UKVI vs IELTS Academic
- IELTS for the UK
- Free IELTS Academic mock test
- All 711 guides
Verified against the linked official sources on 6 October 2026. Rules change: confirm on the official page before you book or apply.
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