Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 31 October 2026
Accepted tests
From IMRD admissions.
| Test | Minimum |
|---|---|
| Academic IELTS | 6.5, minimum 6 for writing |
| TOEFL iBT (Home Edition accepted) | 80 |
| TOEFL paper-based | 550 |
| Cambridge English: C1 Advanced (CAE) | Listed |
| CEFR B2 | Listed |
| TOEIC, TOEFL ITP, Duolingo and others | Not accepted |
Who is exempt
Nationals of EU and EEA countries and a listed group including Australia, Canada, Ghana, India, Kenya, Nigeria, the Philippines, South Africa, Sri Lanka, the UK and the USA can be exempt. They need a stamped and signed certificate from their home university showing at least 60 ECTS credits taught in English in a previous bachelor's or master's.
Free test: are you at the IMRD master's's score yet?
Take a free AI-scored IELTS mock test and get a band for each skill, so you know how far you are from the requirement before you book the real test. Free account, no card.
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Dates on the page
Applications for the September 2027 intake opened in October 2026. For the September 2026 intake the page gave 31 March 2026 for non-EEA nationals and 31 May 2026 for EEA nationals; check the IMRD application manual for the 2027 dates.
Minimum vs competitive score
Where the IMRD master's 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
Is IELTS 6.5 with 5.5 in writing enough for IMRD?+
No. Writing must be at least 6.
Does IMRD accept Duolingo?+
No. The page says Duolingo is not accepted.
Can Indian applicants skip IELTS?+
India is on the exemption list, with a university certificate showing at least 60 ECTS taught in English.
Is TOEFL Home Edition accepted?+
Yes, at 80.
Keep reading
Related
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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