Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
ielts.org's guidance for academic courses
ielts.org gives universities this table for setting entry scores (ielts.org). It does not say which degrees count as linguistically demanding; that is the university's call. ielts.org adds that English ability is not proof of overall academic capability.
| IELTS band | Linguistically demanding academic courses | Less demanding academic courses |
|---|---|---|
| 7.5–9.0 | Acceptable | Acceptable |
| 7.0 | Probably acceptable | Acceptable |
| 6.5 | English study needed | Probably acceptable |
| 6.0 | English study needed | English study needed |
| 5.5 | English study needed | English study needed |
If your university asks for C1
Some universities state their requirement as a CEFR level. ielts.org's CEFR page says the C1 threshold falls between 6.5 and 7, and an institution wanting a high degree of confidence that an applicant is C1 may set 7 rather than 6.5.
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Check the overall and each skill
Doctoral requirements are often written as an overall band plus a minimum in each skill, for example in Writing. Read the exact wording on the department page, then compare your Test Report Form skill by skill.
Find published minimums in our IELTS university requirements data. Every university, employer and visa authority sets its own minimum, often with a minimum in each skill as well as overall. Check the exact requirement before you book. This guide is general information, not official IELTS advice.
Frequently asked questions
Is IELTS 7 enough for a PhD?+
Often. ielts.org rates 7.0 'probably acceptable' for linguistically demanding academic courses and 'acceptable' for less demanding ones. Your university decides.
Is IELTS 6.5 enough for a PhD?+
Some universities accept it. ielts.org's guidance rates 6.5 as needing more English study for linguistically demanding courses.
Does ielts.org's table apply to research degrees?+
ielts.org does not name degree types. It leaves each institution to decide whether a course is linguistically demanding, so the department's own requirement is what counts.
Does IELTS have a PhD band?+
No. IELTS reports bands from 0 to 9; each institution sets its own minimum.
Keep reading
Related
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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