English language entry requirements

All students applying to the University of Liverpool must demonstrate that they are competent in the use of the English language and satisfy the University’s requirements. The qualifications on our Undergraduate and Postgraduate pages are accepted by the University and are considered to satisfy a minimum of CEFR B2 level in each component (speaking, writing, listening and reading). This is the minimum level acceptable for degree level study in order to secure a visa to enter the UK via Student Route.

For more information about the University's responsibility for assessing English Language ability, download our Liverpool English vouching document.

Support meeting English language requirements

Help is available if you want to study here but don't yet meet the English language requirements. Our pre-sessional English courses allow you to progress to academic study once completed.

Register for our online English language courses

Minimum requirements by subject area and level of study

The tables on the Undergraduate and Postgraduate pages specify the levels of English required to enter programmes within the University’s three faculties. The level required will vary according to the programme and the level of study that you are applying for. Where programmes have a specific requirement, these will be listed separately. The tables for each level are split into:

  • International English Language tests (UKVI Secure English Language Tests - SELT)
  • International English Language tests (Non-SELT)
  • International Country-specific English qualifications (for students educated in English medium)
  • Partner Institutions/University of Liverpool tests

Please note the University can only consider the latest English Language qualification for entry to our academic programmes.  Combinations of English Language qualifications will not be considered.

Majority English speaking countries

Students who are nationals from a majority English-speaking country (as defined by the UKVI) are automatically assumed to meet minimum English language requirements. These countries are:

  • Antigua and Barbuda
  • Australia
  • Bahamas
  • Barbados
  • Belize
  • British Overseas Territories
  • Canada
  • Dominica
  • Grenada
  • Guyana
  • Jamaica
  • Malta
  • New Zealand
  • Republic of Ireland
  • St Kitts and Nevis
  • St Lucia
  • St Vincent and the Grenadines
  • Trinidad and Tobago
  • United Kingdom
  • United States of America

Medicine and Dentistry undergraduate degrees

Students applying for undergraduate MBChB or BDS (clinical medicine or dentistry) programmes will usually be asked for evidence of an international qualification in English language (IELTS or TOEFL iBT) unless they are a national or have been educated from Year 10 onwards from one of the majority English-speaking countries above. For these students, their secondary level English will be assessed for suitability. Standard offers for medicine and dentistry for IELTS and TOEFL iBT are outlined in the Undergraduate and Postgraduate pages.