English language requirements for postgraduate students

Do I need to provide an English language test score?

Whether you will need to provide an English language test score to evidence your English language ability depends on your educational background.

Decisions are normally taken based on the criteria below, but the University of St Andrews reserves the right to ask for additional evidence of English language ability, for example, an ECCTIS Qualification and Language Service (QLS) English Proficiency and Qualification Comparison verification confirming that the qualification is equivalent to CEFR Level C1, or a language test.

You should not need to provide an English language test score to evidence your English language ability if you meet one of the criteria listed below. However, please note that the University reserves the right to request additional evidence of English language ability, such as a valid English language test score, in relation to any application to the University.

Obtaining an ECCTIS Qualification Language Service (QLS) English Proficiency and Qualification Comparison

If you have studied a degree in a country from a non-majority English-speaking country, you can apply for an English Proficiency and Qualification Comparison from the ECCTIS Qualification Language Service (QLS) confirming that the degree was taught in English to a particular standard. This service can be used where you have completed your degree (it cannot be used if you are still studying for your degree).

In order for the University to accept an ECCTIS QLS verification as evidence of English language, ECCTIS must confirm that the qualification is equivalent to CEFR Level C1. Statements indicating that a degree programme meets the requirements of CEFR level B1 or B2 are not acceptable.

Please note that the University reserves the right to request additional evidence of English language ability, such as a valid English language test score, in relation to any application to the University.

Students who cannot provide any of the evidence mentioned in the three sections above will need to submit a valid English language test score as stated in the programme entry requirements.

Which English language test score should I provide?

This will depend on whether you are a postgraduate taught student or a postgraduate research student.

Providing your English language evidence

To submit evidence of your English language ability, follow the relevant link below:

If you do not have evidence available when you submit your application, this will form part of any conditional offer made by the University and:

  • you will be expected to provide the evidence at a later date
  • you may be required to attend a pre-sessional course