English Language Requirements

If English is not your first language you must be able show that your English language proficiency is at a level which allows you to successfully complete your chosen course of study.

Each of our Academic Departments at Sheffield have individual requirements. You must meet each of the scores for the departments you wish to study in.

If you want to study in more than one department, you must meet the highest score.

English Language Factsheet

Please ensure you download, read and keep the English Language Factsheet. This has some very important information you require to apply to Study Abroad Programme.

Important Note: Information can change at any point if new legislations are implemented.

International students at english speaking universities

If you were previously educated in a non English speaking country and now study in an English medium university (for example Japanese national studying in an american university) then you will need to provide proof of English with your application

Acceptable English Tests

We do not accept "internal/institutional" English Language Tests.

Please visit the link on your right to find out which tests the University of Sheffield accepts.

Minimum English Language Scores

As set by the UK Border Agency (UKBA), you can ONLY apply for a place on the Study Abroad Programme if you have the following level of English or above:

IELTS: 5.5 with 5.5 in all components (Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking)

TOEFL iBT: 72 with 17 in Listening, 17 in Writing, 18 in Reading and 20 in Speaking

Pearson PTE: 51 with 51 in all components (Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking)

Validity of English Language Certificates

The UK Border Agency (UKBA), has set a 2 year time limit on the validity of language tests.

If your certificate is going to run out before you arrive in Sheffield, you will need to resit the test and send the new certificate to Sheffield before you arrive.