Dreaming of studying in the UK but stressed about the IELTS test? Don’t worry! In 2026, over 120 UK universities will allow Bangladeshi and international students to apply without requiring an IELTS score. They offer other ways to prove your English skills, saving you time, money, and stress. This enhanced guide, updated for August 2026, explains everything in simple, beginner-friendly language. You’ll learn about alternatives to IELTS, top affordable universities, specific courses, application steps, visa updates, cultural tips, and career prospects. Additionally, I address 12 common questions to help clear up your doubts. Let’s make your Study Abroad dream a reality!
Why Skip IELTS?
UK universities need proof that you can handle English for lectures, assignments, and discussions. IELTS is popular, but not mandatory. Many schools now accept other tests, school records, or interviews. This is ideal for Bangladeshi students from English-medium schools or those who find the IELTS exam expensive (approximately BDT 25,000). In 2024, Bangladeshi student visas decreased by 39% due to stricter rules; however, universities remain flexible with their English requirements to attract students like you.
Alternatives to IELTS: Tests and Costs
You can use these tests as an alternative to the IELTS. They’re available in Bangladesh (e.g., Dhaka, Chattogram) and accepted in 2026:
| Test | Cost (BDT, approx.) | Score Needed | Availability in Bangladesh | Notes |
| TOEFL iBT | Cost (BDT, approx.) | Score Needed | Dhaka, Chattogram | Online, widely accepted |
| PTE Academic | 24,000–28,000 | 59–65 | Dhaka | Fast results, computer-based |
| Duolingo English | 20,000–22,000 | 95–120 | Online (home) | Cheapest, growing acceptance |
| Cambridge C1 Advanced | 7,000–8,000 | 176+ | Dhaka, Sylhet | Prestigious, good for top universities |
Check university websites for exact scores. For example, the University of Bristol accepts a TOEFL of 90 for Computer Science. Test centres, such as the British Council in Dhaka, administer TOEFL and Cambridge exams.
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Ways to Apply Without Any Test
You can skip tests entirely if you meet these conditions:
- English-Medium Education: Studied in English for your HSC or bachelor’s? Get a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate from your school or university. It confirms that English was the language of instruction.
- High English Grades: O-Level English (Grade C+) or HSC English (80%+) often work. For example, Swansea University accepts HSC English scores of 80% for the Business program.
- University Interview: Schools like the University of Bolton assess you via Zoom or their English test.
- Pre-Sessional English Course: Join a 4–12-week English course at the university. The University of Essex offers these programs for students with weaker English skills.
These options are suitable for Bangladeshi students from schools such as Scholastica or International Hope School.
Top Affordable UK Universities Without IELTS in 2026
These 10 universities welcome Bangladeshi students without requiring an IELTS score. They’re affordable and offer waivers or alternative tests. I include sample courses and tuition (2026 data, £1 = BDT 160):
| University | Location | Sample Course (Waiver Option) | Undergraduate Tuition (per year) | Postgraduate Tuition (per year) | English Waiver Options |
| University of Bristol | Bristol | BSc Computer Science (MOI, PTE) | £24,700 (~BDT 3,299,680) | £30,500 (~BDT 4,076,320) | MOI, PTE, Cambridge |
| University of Warwick | Coventry | BA Business (MOI, Interview) | £24,800 (~BDT 3,313,088) | £22,600 (~BDT 3,019,136) | MOI, TOEFL, Interview |
| Birmingham City University | Birmingham | BSc Nursing (Duolingo, O-Level) | £16,085 (~BDT 2,150,824) | £16,300 (~BDT 2,178,496) | MOI, Duolingo, O-Level |
| University of Portsmouth | Portsmouth | BEng Engineering (MOI, PTE) | £17,200 (~BDT 2,298,944) | £17,200 (~BDT 2,298,944) | MOI, PTE, Pre-Sessional |
| University of Greenwich | London | BA Media (Duolingo, MOI) | £15,100 (~BDT 2,017,664) | £15,100 (~BDT 2,017,664) | Duolingo, TOEFL, MOI |
| University of Essex | Colchester | BSc Psychology (Pre-Sessional) | £19,500 (~BDT 2,605,920) | £18,750 (~BDT 2,505,600) | Pre-Sessional, MOI |
| University of Central Lancashire | Preston | MBA Business (MOI, Interview) | £14,900 (~BDT 1,990,944) | £15,500 (~BDT 2,070,720) | MOI, Interview, O-Level |
| Sheffield Hallam University | Sheffield | BSc IT (PTE, Duolingo) | £16,385 (~BDT 2,189,254) | £16,385 (~BDT 2,189,254) | PTE, Duolingo, MOI |
| University of Bolton | Bolton | BSc Civil Engineering (Internal Test) | £10,000 (~BDT 1,337,600) | £10,000 (~BDT 1,337,600) | Internal Test, MOI |
| Swansea University | Swansea | BSc Economics (MOI, Cambridge) | £16,900 (~BDT 2,257,664) | £17,000 (~BDT 2,270,720) | Cambridge, MOI |
Fees are approximate. Check university websites for updates.
These schools offer strong job prospects. For example, Birmingham City’s nursing graduates have a 97% employability rate.
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Step-by-Step Application Guide
Follow these steps to apply in 2026:
- Select Your University and Course: Choose schools similar to those listed above. Check if your course (e.g., Warwick’s BA Business) skips IELTS.
- Check English Rules: Confirm if they accept MOI, Duolingo, or interviews—email admissions for clarity.
- Gather Documents: Collect HSC/bachelor’s transcripts (80%+ or GPA 2.75+), passport, personal statement, two references, and MOI or test scores.
- Apply Online: Use UCAS for undergrad (deadline: January 29, 2026, for September start). Apply directly for a master’s degree via the university’s portal.
- Prove English Skills: Submit your MOI, test results, or attend an interview. For example, Bolton’s internal test is free.
- Pay Fees: Some schools charge £20–£50 for applications. Pay online.
- Get Your Offer: Universities typically reply within 2–8 weeks with a CAS if you are accepted.
- Apply for a Visa: Use the CAS for a UK Student Visa (£490 + £300/year NHS surcharge).
Start 8–12 months early. Consider using agencies like SI-UK or the British Council in Dhaka for assistance.
UK Student Visa Updates for 2026
In 2026, visa rules tightened:
- Graduate Visa: Now 18 months for job hunting, not 2 years.
- Dependants: Only PhD students bring family. Others face restrictions.
- Funds Proof: Show £1,450/month (London) or £1,120/month (elsewhere) for 9 months.
- Fraud Checks: Bangladeshi applicants face additional scrutiny due to a history of using fake documents.
- English Proof: If your university waives the IELTS requirement, they confirm your skills for the visa.
Apply online with your CAS, bank statements, and passport. Avoid fake documents to prevent delays.
Career Prospects for Bangladeshi Graduates
A UK degree boosts your career in Bangladesh or globally. Popular fields include:
- IT: Software engineering, data analysis (UK salaries: £30,000–£40,000). There is high demand in Bangladesh’s outsourcing sector.
- Business: Consulting, finance (£25,000–£35,000). Great for Dhaka’s corporate jobs.
- Healthcare: Nursing, public health (£28,000–£38,000). NGOs like BRAC value UK training.
- Engineering: Civil, renewable energy (£32,000–£42,000). Bangladesh’s infrastructure boom needs engineers.
The 18-month Graduate Visa lets you work in the UK post-study. Many return to Bangladesh with better job offers due to UK credentials.
Cultural Tips for Bangladeshi Students
Adjusting to life in the UK is exciting but also challenging. Here’s what to expect:
- Weather: Cold and rainy (0–15°C). Bring warm clothes and umbrellas.
- Food: Find halal shops in cities like London or Manchester. Cook Bangladeshi dishes to save money (approximately BDT 20,000–30,000/month on groceries).
- Politeness: UK culture values “please” and “thank you.” Be punctual for classes.
- Community: Join Bangladeshi student groups at universities like the University of Greenwich. Cities like Tower Hamlets have vibrant Bangladeshi communities.
- Homesickness: 65% of students feel it. Attend university events, sports, or festivals to meet new people and make friends.
Living costs are £12,000–£15,000/year outside London. Share flats or use dorms (£408–£1,800/month) to save.
Scholarships for Bangladeshi Students
Reduce costs with these:
- Chevening: Full funding for master’s, including fees and living costs.
- GREAT Scholarships: £10,000 for 2026–27, 10 available for Bangladeshi students.
- University-Specific: E.g., Portsmouth’s International Scholarship (£1,600), Bolton’s Excellence Scholarship (£3,000).
- Commonwealth: For undergraduates and master’s students, targeting Bangladesh.
Apply 8–12 months early via the university or British Council websites.
F&Q Apply to UK Universities Without IELTS
1. Can I study without any English test?
Yes! Get an MOI certificate if you studied in English at school or university.
2. Which university is the cheapest without IELTS?
The University of Bolton starts at £10,000/year, making it an excellent option for engineering students.
3. Does the visa require IELTS?
No, if your university accepts your MOI or other proof, they handle it.
4. How long does applying take?
2–6 months from application to offer. Start early!
5. What if my English needs work?
Take a pre-sessional course, such as the one offered at Essex, to improve your skills before classes.
6. Are scholarships open without IELTS?
Yes, like GREAT or Chevening. Your grades matter most.
7. Are scholarships open without IELTS?
Yes, like GREAT or Chevening. Your grades matter most.
8. Can I work in the UK while studying?
Yes, 20 hours/week during term, full-time in holidays.
9. Which test is easiest for Bangladeshi students?
Duolingo is affordable (BDT 7,000) and can be taken from the comfort of your own home.
10. Do all courses skip IELTS?
No, some, like those at Bristol, may need it. Check your program.
11. How do I get an MOI certificate?
Ask your school for a letter confirming English as the teaching language.
12. Why is TOEFL good?
It’s online, widely accepted, and available in Dhaka.
13. What if my visa gets delayed?
Use genuine documents and apply early. Agencies like SI-UK help avoid issues.
Conclusion
In 2026, you can study in the UK without taking the IELTS by using alternative tests, such as Duolingo or a MOI certificate. Consider affordable universities such as Bolton or Greenwich, which offer courses in IT, business, and other fields. Follow the application steps, prepare for life in the UK, and secure scholarships to save money. Despite visa challenges, your UK degree opens doors to great careers in Bangladesh or beyond. Apply now—check university websites or contact the British Council in Dhaka. Your UK adventure awaits!
