IELTS

International English Language Testing System (IELTS)

When applying to schools and institutions in the UK, it’s inevitable that students will be assessed for their English ability. For primary and secondary education, this is usually done through entrance exams of the schools you’re applying to. At sixth form and university level, it’s most common to use the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).

IELTS is the world’s most popular English language test, in which students will be evaluated all of their English skills – reading, writing, listening and speaking.

IELTS results is valid for two years.

Do you need to take IELTS? *

If you’re aged 16+, you may take IELTS to test your English ability. When it’s compulsory, our education consultants will advise accordingly during the consultation process.

To get a quick and initial judgement, students and parents may also follow the guidelines below, based on the type of schools and programmes you’re applying to:

• If you’re applying to Boarding Schools: IELTS is usually not required.
• If you’re applying to State Further Education and Sixth Form Colleges: IELTS is usually always required.
• If you’re applying to Universities: It will depend on the universities and programmes you’re applying to. Many universities now accept English in HKDSE as evidence of your English ability. Normally if you’ve achieved level 4 in HKDSE English, you may be exempted from taking IELTS.
• If you’re applying to International Year One or University Foundation: IELTS is usually required.

* Admissions policies and student visa regulations affect whether you’re required to take IELTS. Please consult our education consultants or the institutions you’re applying to for a definite judgement.

English Requirements and Different Types of IELTS: What’s IELTS for UKVI (Academic)?

IELTS for UKVI (Academic) is the version of IELTS designated by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) for visa purposes and it’s currently the most widely accepted version of IELTS. Therefore, if test dates allow, we’d highly recommend that students take IELTS for UKVI (Academic).

Test Fees

Currently test fees for the three most popular versions of IELTS are:

Test Centres

How to Apply

As a British Council Approved Registration Centre, students can apply to take IELTS in British Council (Hong Kong) through us. Alternatively, students may also apply online on the British Council website.

Remarks

This guidelines was last updated on 7^th July 2026.