Postgraduate Language Requirements
The IELTS and TOEFL standard of English Language levels listed below are applicable to all postgraduate courses except our MA English Literature by Research where the minimum grade for IELTS is 7.0 (with 6.5 or above in each component). The table also lists the equivalents from other test providers.
The UKVI English Language requirement for the student visa route is set out in the Appendix English Language of the Immigration Rules.
Minimum entry requirements for postgraduate entry
| Examination | Minimum Grade |
| IELTS | Average of 6.5 (with 6.0 or above in each component) (See also: Approved English language tests which includes a list of approved tests and providers.) |
| TOEFL* (iBT) | 79 (minimum component scores of Listening 12, Reading 13, Speaking 18, Writing 21). Accepted for Undergraduate level courses or above. |
| Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic)** | 59-65 (with 4 minimum component scores of 59) |
| Skills for English | B2 Pass with Merit |
| WAEC | Minimum grade for entry is C4, B3, B2 and A1 |
| Language Cert IESOL B2 Level | Minimum score 38/50 per skill |
* Please use code 8775 when indicating The University of Buckingham as a score recipient. We will then receive your results directly.
** Please note that we only accept tests taken in person at a test centre. We do not accept the online test.
Visa requirements
The UKVI has clear guidelines and requirements. All applicants must achieve the minimum requirements in all 4 components (listening, reading, speaking and writing). The minimum entry requirement for a degree level course is a Common European Framework grade of B2. IELTS, TOEFL and Pearson equivalents are shown below.
| Common European Framework (CEF) | IELTS | TOEFL (Internet-based) | Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) | Skills For English Level Description |
| B2 | Overall score 6.0 – 6.5 All 4 components at a minimum of 5.5 | Overall score 79 Listening 12 Reading 13 Speaking 18 Writing 21 | Overall score 59–65 All 4 components at a 59 minimum | B2 Pass – Pass with Merit (the latter maps to the CEFR B2+ level) |
| C1 | Overall score 7.0 – 8.0 All 4 components at a 7.0 minimum | Overall score 110-120 Listening 26 Reading 28 Speaking 28 Writing 28 | Overall score 76-84 All 4 components at a 76 minimum | C1 Pass |
| C2 | Overall score 8.5 – 9.0 All 4 components at a 8.5 minimum | Overall score 85-90 All 4 components at a 85 minimum | C2 Pass |
Additional information
- International Baccalaureate (IB) English Language score of 4 or above will be accepted.
- Other English language qualifications may be recognised. Please submit full details, including your examination results, with your application.
- Your language certification must be recent: TOEFL and IELTS results are valid for two years.
- All aspects of your academic record, including your English language level, will be taken into account when your application is being considered.
English Language Course at Buckingham
We offer English foundation courses which are designed to prepare you for university study. Successful completion of these allows progression to various degrees at The University of Buckingham if the relevant academic requirements have been met.
Contact
Please contact our Admissions Office if you need any more information.