🇬🇧 Durham, United Kingdom
IELTS Requirements at Durham University — Scores & Tips
Durham University in United Kingdom requires IELTS Academic for international student admissions. The minimum overall band score is 6.5 for undergraduate programmes and 7.0 for postgraduate programmes. Requirements may vary by department and programme.
6.5 UG Minimum
7.0 PG Minimum
IELTS Academic Module Required
QS #78 Ranking
IELTS Score Requirements at Durham University
| Level of Study | Overall Minimum | Component Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate (UG) | 6.5 | 6.0 each |
| Postgraduate (PG) | 7.0 | 6.5 each |
This university requires IELTS Academic. General Training scores are not accepted for degree-level admissions.
About IELTS Requirements at Durham University
Durham requires IELTS Academic with a standard minimum of 6.5 for most undergraduate programmes. Law and some humanities programmes require higher scores.
View official English language requirements at Durham University
IELTS Tips for Durham University Applicants
- •Always check the specific programme page on the Durham University website. Requirements can differ between departments and even between courses within the same faculty.
- •If your score is 0.5 to 1.0 bands below the requirement, check whether Durham University offers a pre-sessional English course. Many universities provide conditional admission with a language bridge programme.
- •Pay close attention to individual component requirements. Many programmes at Durham University set a higher minimum for Writing because academic writing is critical for coursework and dissertations.
- •IELTS results are valid for two years. Plan your test date so your scores are current both when you apply and when you enrol at Durham University.
- •UK universities use UCAS for undergraduate applications. Your IELTS score must be valid on the start date of your course, not just the application deadline. Plan your test accordingly when applying to Durham University.
- •Most UK universities, including Durham University, offer pre-sessional English courses of 6–20 weeks. If you score 0.5–1.0 bands below the requirement, apply for the pre-sessional as a backup.
- •The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) IELTS is only needed for visa-level courses. For degree programmes at Durham University (a recognised Sponsor), a standard IELTS Academic is accepted.
- •Many UK programmes have tiered requirements — for example, English Literature may require 7.5 while Engineering requires 6.5. Always check the specific course page at Durham University.
- •UK postgraduate taught programmes (Masters) often require higher Writing scores (6.5–7.0) because of dissertation requirements. Focus extra preparation time on Writing Task 2 essays.
Frequently Asked Questions: IELTS for Durham University
What IELTS score do I need for Durham University?
Durham University requires a minimum overall IELTS score of 6.5 for undergraduate programmes and 7.0 for postgraduate programmes. Some departments and specific courses may have higher requirements.
Does Durham University accept IELTS General Training?
Most universities, including Durham University, require IELTS Academic for degree-level admissions. A small number of institutions accept General Training for certain programmes. Always check the specific requirements on the university's admissions page.
Does Durham University offer pre-sessional English courses?
Many universities, including Durham University, offer pre-sessional English courses for applicants who score 0.5 to 1.0 bands below the requirement. Check the university website for current availability and entry criteria.
How long are IELTS scores valid for Durham University admissions?
IELTS scores are typically valid for two years from the test date. Durham University requires that your scores be current at the time of application and enrolment.
Do I need UKVI IELTS for Durham University?
For degree-level study at Durham University (a recognised Student Sponsor), you can use a standard IELTS Academic test. UKVI IELTS is only required for pre-sessional courses or below-degree-level programmes.
Can I combine IELTS scores from two tests for Durham University?
No. UK universities, including Durham University, require all four component scores to come from a single test sitting. You cannot combine scores from multiple attempts.
Sources & References
- •Official admissions and English language requirements page at Durham University
- •IELTS Official — ielts.org — Test information and global recognition data
Requirements were last verified in March 2026. University admission requirements may change with policy updates. Always verify requirements directly with the university before submitting applications.
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