B2 for most undergrad, C1 for competitive and postgrad
The common pattern across UK, European, Canadian, and Australian universities: undergraduate admission typically asks for CEFR B2, which maps to roughly IELTS 5.5–6.5. More selective programs and most postgraduate degrees want C1 — about IELTS 6.5–7.0 or higher. The UK Student visa itself requires a minimum of B2.
These are ranges, not promises. Requirements vary by country, by university, and even by department — a competitive course at the same school can demand a higher band than the general entry minimum. Always check the exact requirement for your specific program before you rely on a number.
What B2 and C1 actually mean
B2 means you can follow a lecture, read academic texts with effort, and write a structured essay with some errors that don't block understanding. C1 means you can do all of that comfortably, argue a nuanced point, and read dense material without constantly translating in your head — the level selective programs assume you'll need to keep up.
If you can read a real news article (not a simplified one) and get the gist without a dictionary, you're likely around B2. If you can follow a fast academic discussion between native speakers, you're reaching C1.
Check if you're in range before you pay
An official IELTS or equivalent test costs $200 or more and is the only thing a university will accept on your application. Before you book it, a free self-check tells you whether you're already near B2/C1 or still a level away — and which skill is holding you back.
Nivelo's free 5-minute test gives you a CEFR range and shows where your reading and listening sit. Take it early in your application timeline, while there's still time to close the gap on the weak skill before the real exam.