Top IELTS 5.5 Band Accepting Universities in UK [Updated List 2025]

Studying in the UK can be one of the most rewarding opportunities for a college student as you can experience the new country's charm and culture. Promoting standardised exams such as IELTS, TOEFL, GMAT, and GRE is one of the most important steps when planning to study in the UK. However, many students fear that low IELTS scores will prevent them from enrolling in their dream courses in the UK.

If your score is between 5.5 and 6.5, most schools and universities will gladly accept your application. But if you have an IELTS score of less than 5.5, it is evident that you have anxiety about what to do.

Here, we have compiled an extensive list of universities abroad that accept low IELTS scores worldwide for bachelor’s and master’s courses. You can check the details below so that you can apply to make your dream of studying abroad come true by studying in the UK.

Here is the list of universities accepting 5.5 IELTS Band Scores. Candidates can apply for these IELTS 5.5 Band Score Universities in UK.

With their 5.5 IELTS band score, candidates can apply for UK Universities, as mentioned below.

The University of Leeds is one of the oldest universities in the UK, founded in 1904. It is a public university located in West Yorkshire, England. The university ranked 75 in the QS World University Ranking and 129 in THE Ranking 2024. Every year, many students choose the University of Leeds to study in the UK due to its top-quality education and innovative teaching and research.

Contact Details

• Address: Woodhouse, Leeds LS2 9JT, United Kingdom

• Phone number: +44 113 243 1751

• Email Id: study@leeds.ac.uk

• Website: https://www.leeds.ac.uk/

Do you know that the University of Aberdeen was founded in 1495? Yes, as apparent from the foundation year, the university is the oldest in the world. It is a public research university that has a huge reputation among all international students. The university is mainly famous for its world-class education and various research programs, especially in soil science.

As per the QS World University Ranking 2024 and the Ranking 2024, the university has secured its position in the top 200.

Contact Details

• Address: King's College, Aberdeen AB24 3FX, United Kingdom

• Phone number: +44 1224 272000

• Email Id: servicedesk@abdn.ac.uk.

• Website: https://www.abdn.ac.uk/

The University of Liverpool was founded in England in 1881 to give its students an excellent educational experience and great career possibilities. 71% of students are satisfied with their education, and 88% of those who study at this university are employed. In any case, the acceptance rate is a mere 13.9%, which implies that the institution will only provide an offer letter to worthy applicants who meet all the prerequisites.

Contact Details

• Address: Liverpool L69 3BX, United Kingdom

• Phone number: +44 151 794 2000

• Email Id: irro@liverpool.ac.uk

• Website: https://www.liverpool.ac.uk/

A prominent university in the UK, Queen Mary University of London, admits applicants with IELTS scores of 5.5 bands. The institution offers both undergraduate and graduate programs, enabling students to pursue their goal of attending the best university in the United Kingdom, even with lower IELTS band scores. The university's extensive course offerings are its strongest feature. The institution offers more than 400 postgraduate courses in addition to more than 300 undergraduate courses.

Contact Details

• Address: Mile End Rd, Bethnal Green, London E1 4NS, United Kingdom

• Phone number: +44 20 7882 5555

• Email Id: studentenquiry@qmul.ac.uk

• Website: https://www.qmul.ac.uk/

Apart from the universities mentioned in the list above, a brief description of some UK universities accepting 5.5 IELTS band score are as follows: 

The University of Sussex is recognised as one of the top universities in the world and is a campus institution that emphasises research. They guarantee that students who enrol in the university to shape their future will receive an outstanding education, leading to academic success and superior outcomes. Moreover, the institution offers more than 500 undergraduate and graduate courses. Their extensive array of courses will assist students in selecting the one that best fits their interests. The university now holds the 19th position in the nation and is ranked 175th among Best Global Universities.

Contact Details

• Address: Falmer, Brighton BN1 9RH, United Kingdom

• Phone number: +44 1273 606755

• Email Id: dcm@sussex.ac.uk

• Website: https://www.sussex.ac.uk/

The University of Sheffield was founded in 1905 in the United Kingdom. Due to its long history of scholarly achievement and international influence, the university is ranked 104 position in the QS World ranking. Most international students choose it for their higher studies due to its innovative research projects and dedication to global cooperation.

Moreover, the university serves a wide range of academic interests and career objectives with its extensive variety of over 350 unique educational courses. Its research efforts have paid off, with a sizable portion of studies resulting in practical applications and advances for society. 

Contact Details

• Address: Sheffield S10 2TN, United Kingdom

• Phone number: +44 114 222 2000

• Email Id: english@sheffield.ac.uk

• Website: https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/

The University of Dundee was founded in 1881, and it cheers on a charitable donation from the Baxter Family with the mission of using innovation, research, and knowledge application to improve the lives of university students. The university offers more than 200 research-based courses. Moreover, it has attained a higher rating for several courses, which is the greatest aspect. The university is renowned for its consistent performance and job openings. Over 75% of students have been offered a position in their chosen sector every year.

Contact Details

• Address: Nethergate, Dundee DD1 4HN, United Kingdom

• Phone number: +44 1382 383000

• Email Id: asc@dundee.ac.uk.

• Website: https://www.dundee.ac.uk/

Established in 1881, this university pioneered its field. It is ranked 7 in the UK for research power and 2 when it comes to leading employers. The university has given its students a top-notch, research-heavy education for over 150 years. Over 80% of the university's former students are employed and make good money. The University of Nottingham is ranked 15th in the nation and 130th in the globe.

Contact Details

• Address: Nottingham NG7 2RD, United Kingdom

• Phone number: +44 115 951 5151

• Email Id: office@nottingham.ac.uk.

• Website: https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/

The University of East Anglia is a public research university in Norwich, England, founded in 1963 by Frank Thistlethwaite. It was founded to comprehend, empower, and act upon the opportunities presented to students to mould their careers. With 26 academic colleges, the University of East Anglia has a stellar reputation for providing the highest education available worldwide.

Contact Details

• Address: Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7TJ, United Kingdom

• Phone number: +44 1603 456161

• Email Id: admissions@uea.ac.uk

• Website: https://www.uea.ac.uk/

This UK institution was founded in 1963 and is popular among international students. There are two campuses in Malaysia and Singapore. Moreover, it is part of the Rusell Group University, which is renowned for its emphasis on research. They use a student-centred strategy that will benefit the community as a whole and the students. Their mission is to develop students into tomorrow's leaders and problem solvers. They have demonstrated top-notch academic instruction, inventiveness, and originality.

Contact Details

• Address: Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, United Kingdom

• Phone number: +44 191 208 6000

• Email Id: india@ncl.ac.uk

• Website: https://www.ncl.ac.uk/

Several esteemed universities in the UK provide outstanding education and degrees that are respected across the world. Studying in the UK offers you the chance to develop the abilities and self-assurance required to reach your full potential. For overseas students wishing to pursue higher education at UK universities, it is strongly advised to apply early because many programs have earlier deadlines.

Many universities in UK accept an IELTS band score of 5.5. Still, getting into these top universities in the UK can be difficult if you do not complete the application process correctly.

Below is the process to apply for IELTS 5.5 band score universities in UK for bachelor's and master's degrees. 

• Step 1 – Select the universities from the above list that accept applications with a 5.5 IELTS Band score. 

• Step 2 – Check the admission criteria to apply for these universities and ensure you meet the requirements. 

• Step 3 – Go to the university’s official website and apply for it as per the given guidelines. You can apply to all selected universities together through UCAS for undergraduate courses. On the other hand, for postgraduate courses, you have to apply separately for your selected universities. 

• Step 4 – Upload all the required documents mentioned on the application form and apply.

• Step 5 – Wait for the response from the university; if you receive an offer letter, accept it and pay the admission fees. 

• Step 6 – Now, apply for the student visa and attend the interview.

• Step 7 – Make arrangements for accommodation and go to the UK to study.

International students who want to study at universities abroad or apply for a UK study visa must know the documents required for the university and visa. Candidates need to submit these documents when applying for university and visa interviews.

However, some more documents can be added to the list based on your course, university, and visa type. Below, you can check the list of these documents required to apply for UK student visas and universities. 

• An updated valid passport or other travel document.

• A confirmation from your course provider indicating your acceptance for studies or CAS. 

• Evidence that you have sufficient funds to cover your course costs and live abroad.

• A current ATAS certificate if your nationality and course demand it.

• If you are under 18, provide proof of approval from your parents or other legal guardians.

• If you are under 18, documentation confirming your relationship to your parent or guardian. 

• The results of your TB test.

• If your financial sponsor has paid for your living expenses and course fees within the past 12 months, they must have given you written permission to apply. 

• A qualifying certificate or certifications.

• Transcript.

• Print the results of your qualification or transcript. 

• Evidence of accommodations. 

• A certificate of language competency. 

• Statements and a bank certificate.

• IELTS certification.

If you prepare and use the appropriate tactics, you may raise your IELTS score for admission to a UK university. You may raise your IELTS score by following these tips: 

• Read, write, speak, and listen to the IELTS test several times to familiarise yourself with the format. You will be more prepared for each component if you understand the exam structure. 

• Develop your abilities and confidence by routinely practising the IELTS exam sections. To reduce exam anxiety and enhance your performance, make use of practice questions, example answers, and mock exams. 

• For every portion of the test, identify your areas of weakness and spend more work strengthening those areas. Concentrated practice may help you improve significantly in any area—vocabulary, grammar, listening comprehension, speaking fluency, etc.

• Learn new terms and expressions that are applicable to both academic and everyday settings to help you increase the size of your vocabulary. You can become familiar with new words in context by reading scholarly articles, academic newspapers, and academic periodicals written in English. 

• Regularly listening to English-language audio content, such as podcasts, news broadcasts, and TED lectures, will help you improve your listening abilities. 

• To increase your understanding, practice listening for the essential points, major themes, and finer nuances. 

• Practice with a range of materials to enhance your understanding of reading, such as fiction, periodicals, and scholarly papers. 

• Pay close attention to the writer's argument, point of view, key ideas, and supporting details.

• Take note of the essay's grammatical style, consistency, and cohesiveness. To find areas that need work, get input from classmates, instructors, or tutors. 

• Frequently practice speaking English with friends, family, or language exchange partners to become more fluent and pronounce the language correctly. 

• Listen to a recording of you speaking and identify any places where your pronunciation and clarity may be improved. 

• Learn efficient time management techniques. Be comfortable pacing yourself throughout practice exams to prevent running out of time on exam day. 

• Complete lengthy practice exams in a timed format to get a feel for the exam and pinpoint your areas of weakness. Examine your work and concentrate on improving your areas of weakness before the actual exam.

Various UK Universities accept 5.5 IELTS band scores as proof of English Proficiency. Candidates with a 5.5 IELTS UK band score still have admission and career growth opportunities. Above, we have provided the complete universities accepting 5.5 IELTS band scores. Knowing these universities that accept 5.5 scores helps you to pursue your academic and career goals in the UK. However, it is essential to carefully review the admission criteria, seek university support services, and remain proactive in your language learning journey to maximise your success. Moreover, it is recommended that you improve your IELTS Band score.

If you would like to know more about IELTS 5.5 band scores universities in UK, we encourage you to speak with our team of expert counsellors at Meridean Overseas Education Consultants (MOEC). Our counsellors will provide you with guidance throughout your study abroad. Get help with the application process, SOPs, and filing for a visa. Visit us and get one-to-one counselling, or avail yourself of free video counselling via our website. We will be happy to help you, so please do not hesitate to contact us at application02@meridean.org or 1800-1230-00011.

Question: Can I apply to study in the UK with an IELTS score of 5.5 band?

Answer: Yes, several UK universities accept IELTS scores of 5.5 band for admission to certain programs. However, you must check the specific requirements of each university and program you are interested in.

Question: What types of programs can I pursue with a 5.5 band score in the IELTS exam?

Answer: While some universities may accept 5.5 band scores for undergraduate or postgraduate programs, it is more common for students to be eligible for foundation or pathway programs. These programs help improve English language proficiency and prepare students for further academic study.

Question: Will I need to meet any additional requirements besides the IELTS score for admission?

Answer: Depending on the university and program, you may be required to meet additional requirements such as academic qualifications, work experience, or a personal statement. You must review the admission criteria carefully before applying.

Question. Can I improve my English language skills while studying in the UK if I have a 5.5 band score?

Answer. Yes, studying in the UK provides an excellent opportunity to improve your English language skills through immersion in an English-speaking environment. Universities often offer support services such as language workshops, tutoring, and language exchange programs to help students succeed.

Question. Will a 5.5 band score limit my employment opportunities in the UK after graduation?

Answer. Although some employers may prefer a higher IELTS score, but having a 5.5 band score should not necessarily limit your employment opportunities in the UK. Focus on gaining relevant work experience, developing transferable skills, and continuously improving your English proficiency to enhance your employability.

Question. What are some IELTS 5.5 band universities in the UK for masters?

Answer. Some universities in the UK, like the University of Leeds, the University of Aberdeen, the University of Liverpool, and the University of Sussex, accept IELTS scores of 5.5. However, keep in mind that while a 5.5 might meet the basic language requirement, the universities will also look at other parts of your application, such as your academic records, work experience, personal statement, and recommendation letters.