UK

IELTS score required depend on university and course, but here is guide-

• 6.0 overall (no band below 5.5): Entry-level threshold for many mid-ranked universities.
• 6.5 overall (no band below 6.0): The most common requirement across UK universities.
• 7.0 overall (no band below 6.5): Required by Russell Group and highly competitive programmes.

If you have 6.0 bands currently, you are close — improving your Reading band from 5.5 to 6.0 while maintaining other bands at 6.5 will open up significantly more options.

Note- Shiksha Study Abroad provides free IELTS preparation classes (multiple batches) to help you improve your score.

Most UK universities accept IELTS, TOEFL iBT, and PTE Academic. Here are the standard benchmarks for Master's programmes:

IELTS: Overall 6.0 – 7.0 (with no individual band below 5.5 or 6.0 depending on the university).

TOEFL iBT: 79–100 (varies by university).

PTE Academic: 50–65 overall (roughly equivalent to IELTS 6.0–6.5).

Duolingo English Test: Some universities accept DET scores of 100+.

Note: Higher-ranked universities require higher scores. Always check the specific English requirement for your chosen course — some departments set higher thresholds than the general university minimum.

Yes many UK universities accept students with backlogs, particularly those ranked outside top 50. But-

• Russell Group and top-50 universities generally do not accept backlogs.
• Universities ranked 51–200 may accept 1–2 cleared backlogs with a good overall percentage.
• Universities ranked 200+ generally accept backlogs freely as long as the degree is completed.

Your counsellor will specifically target universities that match your backlog history during shortlisting.

There is no single universal minimum, but here is guide-

• 60% and above- Eligible for many good universities including many ranked in top 100-200 globally.
• 55-60% - Still eligible for accredited universities with internship and PSW visa options.
• Below 55%- Pathway programs are available that help bridge gap and lead into Masters.

Note- Even with low percentage, good IELTS score, relevant work experience, or good SOP can make significant difference in your application.

Min balance in back required for Indian students who want to study at UK Uni is mentioned below-

• Outside London- Remaining tuition fee with GBP 9,207 for 9 months or GBP 1,023 per month
• London- Remaining tuition fee with GBP 12 K for 9 months or GBP 1,334 per month

Money must be in your account, parent or guardian's account for 28 days. Counsellor will calculate exact amount on basis of university fee and deposit.

Tuition fee payment works according to steps mentioned below-

• Deposit-Pay a deposit (usually £2,000 – £4,000) to secure your offer and receive your CAS.
• Visa-Show total funds (including remaining tuition + living cost) for visa purposes.
•  On arrival-Pay the first instalment at university registration.
• Remaining-Pay the second instalment (usually mid-semester or start of second term).

Note- You do not need to pay the full tuition before leaving India. Only the deposit is needed upfront. The rest can be paid after you arrive.

Students can look at mentioned below information about calculating living cost in the UK for Indian students who want to study at UK Uni-

Total cost in UK include - tuition, living cost for 12 months, visa fee, NHS surcharge, flight and initial setup cost.

Example- Outside London PG student must show about INR 28L - INR 35L in bank account for visa which should have tuition deposit deducted and full year living cost. Counsellor can provide detail figure as soon as the university is decided.