Which English tests are actually accepted

Only the funder’s named list counts. An “equivalent” you assume is not an equivalent they accept.

Updated 18 Oct 2026Last checked 20 Sept 20267 min readAlso in FR

Read the named list

IELTS Academic and TOEFL iBT appear often; many funders also name Cambridge, PTE, or Duolingo — or none of those. If your certificate is missing from the list, write to the provider before you pay for a new test.

Scores and validity

Minimum overall and component scores both matter. Most certificates expire after two years for admissions purposes. A test you have not taken yet is “unknown”, not a failure — plan the date so results arrive before the deadline.

Waivers

Some programmes waive tests for prior study in English. Waivers are programme-specific; a previous waiver elsewhere does not transfer automatically.

Official sources used

  • Programme pages (verify per opportunity), accessed 20 Sept 2026