Study abroad without IELTS - 5 reasons why taking an English Language test is worth it in the long run

Studying and passing the standardized IELTS test need a significant amount of time and preparation, depending on your English language skills and test-taking abilities. As of Jan 2022, the IELTS test fee ranges between 13000-15000INR and, you will have to shell out more if you decide to join an IELTS class or buy practice materials.

So why should you even bother taking the test if there are plenty of other options to study abroad without IELTS?

Even though universities that do not require IELTS scores, particularly in the European Union, the Far East, and Central Eurasia, are gaining popularity as a study abroad destination, taking an English Language test like IELTS or TOEFL brings about a lot of other benefits.

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1. Top Universities and Colleges have higher IELTS cut-off scores

Most of the well-ranked universities in Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand have high minimum IELTS score requirements to qualify for application. Universities need to be sure that you can understand your classes and perform at your best when the language of instruction is English. If you are applying to competitive universities with low acceptance rates, having a top-notch IELTS band would certainly help your application stand out!

Therefore, if you decide not to attempt an English Language Test, you could miss out on applying to several universities, thereby narrowing your available options. The quality of the university or college that you chose will have a huge impact on your student life, learning experience, and your employability during and after graduation.

2. IELTS scores could be a pre-requisite or a defining factor in visa applications

According to IELTS.org, if you are applying for a work visa, professional recognition, or permanent residency in Canada, it is likely that you will be required to present evidence of English language proficiency. Certain types of student visas and visas for healthcare professionals by UKVI also have minimum CEFR level requirements. However, there are certain exceptions if the medium of instruction of your previous school or degree was English.

There has been a rise in the number of international students moving abroad for studies and then dropping out of college to work full-time. Therefore, visa officers need to be satisfied that your primary objective to move abroad is for the same reason stated in your application. Therefore, having a strong Statement of Purpose (SOP) and a higher IELTS band could be a determining factor in your student visa applications.

3. Exemption from taking language classes at the university

Most full-time programs have a mandatory English language class as part of your curriculum, either in the first or second semester of university. If you could demonstrate an excellent command of English and possess a standardized English test result, you could be exempt from opting for this class entirely or from mandatory attendance. If you are paying your tuition fees on a credit-hour basis, you could even slightly lower your student fees as well! However, please contact your college counselor or Student Support Office to know whether you qualify for such an exemption.

Certain universities, particularly in Europe, require students from non-native English-speaking countries to attend academic English workshops before starting their study programs. These workshops could vary between two weeks to three months. Having a good IELTS score could help you get an exemption if your dream university requires you to take mandatory English workshops.

4. Better credibility as a foreign student

Being an international student abroad has its fair set of opportunities and challenges - from getting a part-time job to qualifying for scholarships to securing that dream internship. If you are an international student, you are assumed to be knowing communicative English. However, when it comes to applying for a job or internship, adding your IELTS test scores to your resume could help you stand out and also help build credibility as an English speaker. It is particularly beneficial when applying for service-based professions where you are expected to interact with customers and your team.

5. Improves your confidence speaking in English

If you have read this far, then you are at least considering moving abroad for work or studies. For the next few years, you will be interacting with your friends, colleagues, and even strangers on the street in English. So if you are not used to communicating in English often, it could be a rougher transition for you once you make it to your dream country. Preparing and attempting a standardized test like IELTS could help you brush up your language skills and make you better in effective writing and confident in having engaging conversations.

If you have any more questions or concerns regarding IELTS or which option to choose from, feel free to speak to one of our advisors.

All the best!

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Published on Jan 19, 2022