GREAT Scholarships
IELTS Requirement & Application Guide
Use this listing to plan your research, not as confirmation of eligibility. Requirements, funding and deadlines can change. Confirm your course and current application cycle with the official provider. An unknown requirement is not a waiver.
- IELTS
- 6.5
- Components
- L 5.5 / R 5.5 / W 5.5 / S 5.5
- Study level
- Postgraduate
- Deadline
- Varies by university (typically January-April)
Last verified: 2026-03
About GREAT Scholarships
GREAT Scholarships are a joint initiative between the UK government's GREAT Britain Campaign and the British Council. They offer tuition fee reductions of at least GBP 10,000 for one-year postgraduate taught programmes at participating UK universities. The scheme targets students from specific countries across Africa, Asia, and the Americas.
Listed IELTS requirement
| Overall | L | R | W | S |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 |
Accepts: Academic ✓ / General ✗
Also accepted: TOEFL iBT 79, PTE Academic 54
Tips for Meeting the Requirement
- 1GREAT Scholarships require IELTS 6.5 overall with 5.5 in each band. Focus first on ensuring no component falls below 5.5, then build your overall score to 6.5.
- 2Each participating university may set additional requirements above the minimum. Check the specific university's IELTS requirement for your chosen programme before applying.
- 3Applications open as early as September and close as late as May, depending on the university. Take your IELTS early to avoid missing deadlines at your preferred institutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What IELTS score is required for GREAT Scholarships UK?
Which countries are eligible for GREAT Scholarships?
How much do GREAT Scholarships cover?
Prepare for your English requirement
A practice Writing estimate can help identify what to work on. It does not establish scholarship eligibility.
Connect with scholarship winners
Our community includes students who successfully secured IELTS-requiring scholarships. Get real advice on applications and preparation.