University English requirements

What IELTS score do you need for the University of Manchester?

The University of Manchester sets English scores course by course. Its typical scale runs from IELTS 5.5 up to 7.5+, which it equates to PTE Academic 59–63 up to 79+. It accepts IELTS Academic and IELTS for UKVI, including One Skill Retake, but only at official test centres: IELTS Online is not accepted. Tests are valid for two years.
  • Checked against official sources · 4 October 2026
  • 3 sections
  • IELTS

Typical English scores for Manchester

This is the typical-scores table on Manchester's English language requirements page. Your course profile gives the exact score, and sub-skill minimums may also apply. UKVI's floor for a Student visa at degree level is CEFR B2, but Manchester's academic Schools often ask for more.

IELTS overallPTE Academic / UKVITOEFL iBT (0–120)TOEFL iBT (1–6 scale)C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency
5.559–63724 (4 in all skills)162–168
6.064–69804.5 (4.5 in all skills)169–175
6.570–75904.5 (4.5 in all skills)176–184
7.076–781005185–190
7.5+79+109–1205.5191–230

Which IELTS, PTE and TOEFL versions count

IELTS: IELTS Academic and IELTS UKVI are accepted, including One Skill Retake on those two tests. The test must be taken in person at an official IELTS centre. IELTS General, IELTS Online, IELTS Home and IELTS Indicator are not accepted. Manchester stresses that IELTS Online is not accepted even though it mirrors IELTS Academic.

PTE Academic is accepted in UKVI and non-UKVI versions, but not PTE Online or PTE Home. TOEFL iBT is accepted, but not the Special Home Edition. Scores from tests after 21 January 2026 are reviewed case by case against ETS equivalency tables. Duolingo is not on the list.

IELTS, PTE, TOEFL and Trinity ISE are valid for two years after the test date and must still be valid on the first day of Welcome Week.

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When you need a UKVI SELT

A UKVI-approved SELT taken in person is needed for courses below degree level, such as standalone foundation or pre-sessional courses. It is also needed for an integrated course on a joint CAS, where a foundation year or pre-sessional is part of the full degree. For direct degree entry, the wider list above applies.

Manchester's University Centre for Academic English runs pre-sessional and in-sessional courses for international students.

Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your Manchester programme page and in your offer letter, so check it there before you book a test.

Frequently asked questions

Does the University of Manchester accept PTE?+

Yes, PTE Academic and PTE Academic UKVI, from 59–63 for an IELTS 5.5 course up to 79+ for 7.5+. PTE Online and PTE Home are not accepted.

Is One Skill Retake accepted at Manchester?+

Yes, for IELTS Academic and IELTS UKVI taken at official test centres.

Does Manchester accept IELTS Online?+

No. Manchester accepts in-person IELTS at official test centres only and specifically excludes IELTS Online.

Do I need IELTS for UKVI for Manchester?+

Only for courses below degree level or an integrated course on a joint CAS. For direct degree entry, IELTS Academic is accepted.

What IELTS do I need for a master's at Manchester?+

It is set per programme on the course profile. Manchester's typical range runs from 5.5 to 7.5+.

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Verified against the linked official sources on 4 October 2026. Rules change: confirm on the official page before you book or apply.

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