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Study in the UK Without IELTS: MOI and Other Options for Bangladeshi Students

Many UK universities accept a Medium of Instruction letter, HSC English results or their own online tests. Here is how it works - and what the visa officer still checks.

Adept International

, 2 min read

A student writing notes at a desk

IELTS is the best-known English test, but it isn't the only route into a UK university. Many universities offer alternatives for Bangladeshi students. Here are the main options, and the caveats to know about.

Option 1: a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter

If your previous degree was taught in English, some UK universities accept an MOI letter from your university as proof of English, usually for postgraduate courses. Each university sets its own rules: some accept MOI for all courses, some only for certain subjects, and many require a minimum grade in your previous studies. Lists of ‘MOI-accepting universities’ change every intake, so always confirm with the university - or with us - for your course and intake.

Option 2: HSC or O/A-level English results

Some universities accept a strong grade in HSC English, or in English at O or A level, instead of a test for undergraduate or foundation entry.

Option 3: the university's own or an alternative test

Many universities accept online tests such as the Oxford International English Test (OIETC) or the Oxford ELLT, or run their own online assessment and interview. These are often cheaper and quicker to book than IELTS - compare them in IELTS vs OIETC vs PTE.

What the visa rules say

For degree-level courses, UK visa rules let your university assess your English itself, so your CAS can confirm your English without a Secure English Language Test (SELT). For courses below degree level, such as some foundation programmes, you usually need a SELT such as IELTS for UKVI.

Even with MOI, the visa officer may hold a credibility interview. If you can't confidently answer basic questions about your course in English, your visa can be refused, so practise speaking before your interview.

Is studying without IELTS right for you?

  • Yes, if your previous studies were in English and you're comfortable speaking and writing in English.
  • Consider taking a test anyway if you want the widest choice of universities or scholarships - some courses and scholarships still require IELTS or an equivalent score.

Talk to our admissions team to find universities that accept MOI for your subject and intake.

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