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IELTS for the USA - A Comprehensive Guide
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) holds immense popularity among students aspiring to study in the US. Serving as a comprehensive English language proficiency assessment, IELTS is widely accepted by academic, professional, and immigration authorities across more than 140 nations globally.
In the US alone, IELTS is accepted by over 3,400 institutions including Ivy League institutions and programs (visiting programs, Fulbright scholarships, degree programs, masters, PhD, MBA, etc.) as proof of English language proficiency.
Available on paper and computer
Faster results with IELTS on Computer
Accepted by over 3,400 institutions
Test for study, work and migration
Why study in the US?
The US is home to some of the world’s best universities and offers remarkable benefits to international students who choose to study in the USA. Here are some of the prominent reasons why studying in the US is a great choice:
- Academic excellence: The US boasts some of the finest universities, a lot of which consistently rank in the world university rankings. As per the QS World University Ranking 2023, five of the top 10 universities are from the US. Similarly, the Times Higher University Education Ranking has also ranked six of the American universities among the top 10 list of universities
- Flexible education system: American universities and colleges offer a myriad of courses and programs to choose from
- Cultural diversity: The US is a melting pot of different cultures, races, and ethnicities. Its diverse environment ensures that there is acceptance among all communities
- Vibrant campus life: It's a known fact that the campus life of the US is matchless. Irrespective of the university you study at, you will find yourself amid new cultural experiences
Why do more International Students Choose IELTS for Studying in the US?
IELTS has always been popular with students who want to study in the US. here’s why:
- Choose a format that suits you: IELTS is offered in two formats – pen and paper and computer-delivered. You can opt for the format that is most suitable for you
- Face-to-face speaking test: This is a more efficient way of evaluating as a real-life trained examiner is there to talk to you than a machine
- Frequency of the exam: IELTS is offered up to 4 times a month for paper-based and up to 7 days a week and 3 times a day for computer-delivered format
- Faster results: Results for the computer-delivered exam are out within 3-5 days
Also Read: Know Top Reasons to Giving IELTS Test
IELTS for USA Study Visa
If you aspire to study in the US, you will generally need to apply for a student visa. Here are the main types of student visas you can consider:
| F Student Visa | These visas are tailored for those seeking to enrol in an accredited US college or university or to pursue English language studies at an intensive language institute. This type of visa is the most commonly used for academic purposes. |
| J Exchange Visa | These visas are typically granted to students participating in short-term exchange programs, which may include high school or university study. |
| M Student Visa | These visas cater to students enrolling in non-academic or vocational study or training programs within the US. |
Before initiating your student visa application, you must obtain either an I-20 or a DS-2019 form from the college or university where you have secured admission. Additionally, it is essential to have documented proof of funding for your first year of study. Once you possess the I-20 or DS-2019 form, you can proceed with your student visa application.
If you are applying for a US student visa, you need to appear for IELTS Academic Test and obtain a minimum IELTS band score of 6.5 is usually expected. The minimum overall IELTS band score requirement for undergraduate degrees in the US is 6.0, whereas post-graduate degrees generally require a minimum band score of 6.5. The minimum IELTS score varies depending on the specific universities. For example, prestigious Ivy League schools often set a minimum overall score requirement of 7.0, whereas other institutions may typically ask for a score of 6.0 or 6.5.
Furthermore, advanced-level courses that involve complex concepts and significant human interaction generally necessitate a higher IELTS band score. Examples of such courses include Journalism, Literature, Medicine, and Psychology, among others.
IELTS Requirements of the Top Universities in the US
While every university has different criteria for accepting IELTS, the top universities in the US usually prefer a band score of 6.5 or 7.0 for admission.
Minimum IELTS Requirements of the Top Universities in the US
Here are the IELTS requirements of some of our top partner universities:
| S. No. | Universities | Required IELTS score* |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arizona State University | 6 |
| 2 | Washington University in State Louis | 6.5 |
| 3 | Rochester Institute of Technology | 6.5 |
| 4 | Colorado State University | 6 |
| 5 | Saint Louis University | 6.5 |
| 6 | The University of Texas at Arlington | 6.5 |
| 7 | Pace University | 7 |
| 8 | University of New Haven | 7.5 |
| 9 | Iowa State University | 6 |
| 10 | Northeastern University | 7 |
IELTS for USA Work Visa
The US offers a wealth of opportunities for individuals seeking to pursue their education abroad and secure future employment. With its rich cultural diversity, ample prospects for career advancement, and numerous travel possibilities within the country, it comes as no surprise that many aspire to attain permanent residency in the US.
Additional Read: Information About IELTS Work Visa
Work and get a Green Card in the US with a Study Visa
Acquiring an F-1 study visa and completing a degree from an American university is a popular and relatively straightforward pathway towards eventually obtaining permanent residency in the United States.
Although the typical minimum IELTS band score is 6.0 to 6.5 out of 9, the specific requirement may differ across universities.
Getting a Green Card through a Work Visa
To work in the US, you are required to take the IELTS General Test. Here are some of the most common visa types available:
| H-1B visa | This temporary work visa is obtained through your employer and allows you to work in a specialised occupation. |
|---|---|
| H-1B1 treaty-based temporary work visa | This visa is specifically designed for Singapore and Chile citizens with a job offer from their employer. |
| H-3 (trainee) visa | This visa enables you to come to the US as a trainee or Special Education Exchange Visitor to receive training in programs such as child education. |
| O visa (persons with extraordinary ability) | This visa can be obtained if you possess exceptional abilities in fields such as education, arts, business, sciences, athletics, and more. |
| P visa (artists, entertainers) | This visa applies to athletes, entertainers, artists, and essential support personnel. |
| Q visa | This work visa is suitable for individuals seeking to participate in Exchange Visitor programs designated by either the Department of State or the Department of Homeland Security. |
| EB-1 Visa | Individuals who previously held student visas and further want to obtain green card holder status may apply for the EB-1 visa or first-preference employment-based visa, facilitating a smooth transition from student to employee residing in the US. |
If you are planning to study in the US, then your IELTS band score must be high enough. Universities and colleges will look at your IELTS score as part of their admission process. Therefore, you must work hard on improving your vocabulary and writing skills so that these areas do not hinder your application for higher education programs such as undergraduate degrees, postgraduate courses, and research projects conducted by universities/colleges in the US.
IELTS Test Fee
For more information: Fees for IELTS for USA
High quality IELTS prep material to improve your score for USA
Preparing for and securing a good IELTS score is an invaluable step towards unlocking the doors of USA's best institutions.
IELTS Taster (Sample test)
Get a flovour of the IELTS 2 tests (Listening and Reading)
Expert tips
Specially curated videos and tips by experts and high-band scorers
Free IELTS Masterclass
A 60-minute session by an IELTS expert to guide all about the exam
What to do if the IELTS Band Score is not High Enough?
If your English skills are still not good enough for what is required to score a good band, then it may be worth investing some extra time to prepare better. At IDP, we have a range of free materials available to help you prepare for your IELTS exam. You can register yourself to access the preparation material available on our website.
Additionally, if you want to know more about the IELTS test, you can visit to your nearest IDP IELTS test centre. Our team of IELTS experts will clear all your doubts.