Are you looking for the best alternative to IELTS for studying in the UK? If so, then OIETC can be the perfect fit for you. Many UK universities accept OIETC as an English language proficiency test and the minimum OIETC score requirement for UK is B2+ which is equivalent to the IELTS 6.
Most of the students want to skip the IELTS due to fear. But IELTS is the most widely accepted English test in the world. However, UK Universities also accept other English tests like OIETC, PTE, Duolingo etc. Finding the OIETC accepted universities can be difficult for international students so in this blog we will mention the universities that accept OIETC in UK, their requirements and the application process. So, if you want to study in UK without IELTS, this blog will help you a lot.
Check Your Eligibility!
What is OIETC?
OIETC (Oxford International English Test Centre) is an English language testing organization that provides assessments for students and professionals worldwide. It offers an alternative to the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) called the English Language Level Test (ELLT). Let’s explore some key features of OIETC.
- Alternative to IELTS: OIETC provides a reliable testing system for institutions or countries that may not require IELTS but still need proof of English proficiency.
- Focus on Academic and General English: The tests assess listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills, tailored for specific needs such as studying abroad or work-related purposes.
- Flexible Testing Options: Tests can be taken online or at designated test centres, offering convenience for candidates.
| What are the Uses of OIETC? | |
| University Admissions | Many institutions accept OIETC test scores as part of their language requirements for international students. |
| Work and Visa Applications | Some immigration programs and employers recognize OIETC as proof of English proficiency |
Modules of Oxford International English Test Centre (OIETC)
Like the IELTS test, OIETC also has 4 modules. Such as-
- Reading
- Listening
- Writing
- Speaking
Reading
The reading test is done automatically with advanced AI monitoring to ensure security. It includes two texts and takes 40 minutes to finish.
Listening
The listening test lasts 20 minutes. You will hear two audio recordings and need to answer questions based on them.
Writing
The writing test takes 60 minutes. You will write an essay sharing your opinion on a given topic. Your essay will be sent directly to an examiner for evaluation.
Speaking
For the speaking test, you can book a time that works best for you. The test is done with a live examiner and has three parts, which take about 15 minutes to complete.
List of OIETC Accepted Universities in UK
Now you know about the modules of OIETC, we should now discuss the OIETC accepted university in the UK. The UK is an OIETC accepted country and a huge number of universities accept the ELLT test for English language proficiency, but here we will mention a list of some top-ranked OIETC-accepted universities in UK so that you can enrol in your desired university in the upcoming intake.
- Bangor University
- International College Robert Gordon Aberdeen, ICRG
- University of Bristol
- University of Strathclyde
- Bangor University International College
- Keele University International College
- University of Chester
- Birmingham City University
- Birmingham City University International College, BCUIC
- Ravensbourne University
- University of Greenwich
- London South Bank University
- Canterbury Christ Church University
- Robert Gordon University Aberdeen
- University of Hertfordshire
- De Montfort University
- De Montfort University International College
- University for the Creative Arts
- University of Roehampton
OIETC Accepted Popular Universities in UK in 2025
Are you an international student planning to study at a top UK university and have taken the OIETC English Language Level Test (ELLT)? We’re here to help!
Here’s a list of the top 10 UK universities that accept ELLT scores to guide your search. Visit the universities’ websites to check their other admission requirements and application steps so you can apply quickly and confidently.
Bangor University
Bangor University is a public university in Wales, known for its welcoming approach to international students. Ranked 474th globally by QSWUR 2025, it accepts OIETC scores. To apply, you need a minimum score of B2+ overall, with B2 in each section.
Birmingham City University
Located in Birmingham, the UK’s second-largest city, Birmingham City University accepts OIETC for English proficiency. The university offers flexible undergraduate and postgraduate courses. The minimum OIETC score required is B2 in all sections.
Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU)
CCCU, located in Canterbury, Kent, is an OIETC-accepted university ranked 109th in the Complete University Guide 2025. To apply, you need an OIETC score of B2+ overall, with B2 in each section.
De Montfort University (DMU)
DMU, another OIETC-accepted university, offers over 170 professionally accredited courses. Many programs include a one-year work placement for hands-on experience.
London South Bank University (LSBU)
LSBU, a public university in London, is ranked 114th in the Complete University Guide 2025. It accepts OIETC scores, making it a great option for studying in London without IELTS.
Robert Gordon University (RGU)
RGU, located in Aberdeen, Scotland, is ranked 91st by the Complete University Guide 2025. This modern university offers a variety of exciting degree programs and accepts OIETC scores for admission.
University of Hertfordshire
This modern university provides career-focused programs across undergraduate, postgraduate, and STEM courses. It accepts OIETC scores, making it a great option for the January intake.
University for the Creative Arts (UCA)
UCA, ranked 85th in the Complete University Guide, is a public university that accepts OIETC scores. It’s a great choice for international students seeking creative education without IELTS.
University of Bristol
Ranked 54th in the QS World University Rankings 2025 and a top 20 UK university by the Complete University Guide, the University of Bristol is part of the prestigious Russell Group. It offers excellent education and career opportunities and accepts OIETC scores.
University of Chester
The University of Chester, founded in 1839, has three campuses and is ranked 56th in the UK by the Complete University Guide 2025. Voted as the sixth-best UK university for international students by WhatUni, Chester also accepts OIETC scores.
| University | Score Requirements |
| Bangor University | B2+ overall, with B2 in each section |
| Birmingham City University | B2 in all sections |
| Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU) | B2+ overall, with B2 in each section |
| De Montfort University (DMU) | Overall B2+ with B2 in each section |
| London South Bank University (LSBU) | B2+ overall, with B2 in each section |
| Robert Gordon University (RGU) | B2+ overall, with B2 in each section |
| University of Hertfordshire | B2+ overall, with B2 in each section |
| University for the Creative Arts (UCA) | B2+ overall, with B2 in each section |
| University of Bristol | C1 overall with B2+ in each section |
| University of Chester | B2+ overall |
Scoring System OIETC Vs IELTS
To apply for a UK student visa you must need a required score to qualify for the degree. Almost every UK university accepts IELTS as it is one of the main requirements for a UK student visa. However, some universities offer different tests for English language requirements for UK. Let’s explore the OIETC Vs IELTS scoring system to get a better understanding of it.
| IELTS | OIETC |
| 3.5 | A2 |
| 4 | A2+ |
| 4.5 | B1 |
| 5 | B1+ |
| 5.5 | B2 |
| 6 | B2+ |
| 6.5 | C1 |
| 7 | C1+ |
Minimum OIETC Score Requirement in UK
Every university in the UK has its entry requirements for international students. However, knowing the minimum OIETC score can help you understand what you might need to qualify. Let’s look at the minimum OIETC score required for a UK student visa.
| Degree Name | IELTS score | OIETC equivalent score |
| Bachelor degree | IELTS 6.0 with no band less than 5.5. | Overall score B2+ with B2 in each scale. |
| Postgraduate degree | IELTS 6.5 with no band less than 6.0. | Overall score C1 with B2+ on each scale. |
Remember, you cannot use your OIETC score to apply for a foundation program in the UK. You’ll need UKVI IELTS instead. As per Gov. uk, the minimum IELTS score for a foundation program is 4.5. Once you complete the IELTS test, your result will be emailed to you. After receiving it, send the result to the admissions team to confirm your application. However, if you don’t want to take any English test you can also check the MOI accepted universities in UK.
How to Study in UK with OIETC?
Students may worried about the application process in UK with an OIETC test. You need to follow some simple steps if you want to study in UK with an OIETC score.
- Check University Requirements: Research universities in the UK that accept OIETC scores. Make sure your score meets their minimum requirements.
- Choose Your Course and University: Select the course and university that match your career goals and OIETC score.
- Submit Your Application: Apply to your chosen university through their website or application portal. Include your OIETC score as proof of English language proficiency.
- Wait for an Offer Letter: If your application is accepted, you’ll receive an offer letter. Review it carefully and accept the offer.
- Prepare for Your Visa: Use your OIETC score as part of the requirements for your UK student visa application. Make sure all other documents are ready too.
- Start Your Journey: Once your visa is approved, prepare for your move to the UK and begin your studies!
Final Words
The Oxford International Education Group Language Test Centre offers an alternative to IELTS for international students who want to study abroad in the UK. Many top-ranked universities in the UK accept OIETC scores.
Besides IELTS and ELLT, there are other English language tests you can use to study in the UK. If you need guidance on English language tests or other requirements, AIMS Education can help. Our expert counsellors provide free, reliable support to make your study abroad journey smooth and successful.
FAQ
Is OIETC accepted in the UK?
Ans: Many universities in the UK accept the OIETC English Language Level Test (ELLT), including the University of Birmingham, the University of Bristol, the University of Hertfordshire, and Bangor University.
What is the minimum score for OIETC?
Ans: The minimum OIETC score requirement for UK is B2+ which is equivalent to the IELTS 6.
Which University accepts ELLT in the UK?
Ans: Bangor University, Birmingham City University, Canterbury Christ Church University, De Montfort University, London South Bank University etc. are the ELLT accepted universities in UK.
Which English test is easy for a UK visa?
Ans: If you’re applying for a spouse visa or a parent visa, you can take the PTE Home A1 test, which is a basic English test. If you’re already in the UK and need to extend your A1 visa, you can take the PTE Home A2 test.
AIMS Education is the best study abroad consultancy firm guiding students in selecting courses, universities and help them apply and secure their student visas. Also, AIMS Education is a British Council-certified agent and is listed on the British Council global agent list. We provide student recruitment services in UK, USA, Australia, Canada, Hungary, Poland, Denmark, Malta, Finland, France, Austria, Spain, Sweden, Malaysia and UAE. Not only this but also AIMS Education is an ICEF Accredited Agent, UCAS Registered Centre, PTE and Language Cert Partner.