IELTS & Tests

IELTS Scores Explained: What You Need for Top Universities

May 29, 2026 · 1 min read · AFI IELTS Advisors

From 5.5 pathway programs to 7.0+ for competitive courses — how to plan your test timeline.

Different countries and courses accept different IELTS bands. A 6.0 might work for a foundation route while MBA programs often ask for 6.5 overall with no band below 6.0.

Tips:
• Book your test 3–4 months before earliest application deadline.
• If you are short by 0.5, ask about pre-sessional English or MOI exemptions.
• PTE and Duolingo are accepted at select partners — verify per university.

AFI maps your target score to real programs in our live catalog so you do not waste applications.

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