This guide explains in clear and simple English how students from Nigeria can apply for a UK master’s degree **without having to take IELTS**. You’ll learn about accepted alternatives, documents needed, and step‑by‑step application advice. We also show how IvyPlug can help with essays, personal statements, and planning your study journey.
1. Why You Don’t Always Need IELTS
Some UK universities understand that not all students can take IELTS. They allow other ways to prove your English skills, such as:
- MOI (Medium of Instruction) certificate – shows your previous degree was taught in English.
- Alternate tests – like TOEFL, PTE, Cambridge, Duolingo.
- Internal university test or interview – the school tests you directly.
- Pre‑sessional English courses – you study English at the school first, then start your master’s.
Many universities now accept these options instead of IELTS :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}.
2. Accepted Proofs of English for Master’s in UK
2.1 Medium of Instruction Certificate (MOI)
A MOI letter should include:
- Your name, institution, and programme
- Statement that your instruction was fully in English
- On official letterhead with stamp/signature
- Issued within the last few years
MOI is accepted widely for master’s programmes :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}.
2.2 Alternate English Exams
- TOEFL iBT
- PTE Academic or PTE UKVI
- Duolingo English Test
- Cambridge exams (C1 Advanced, C2 Proficiency)
These tests are accepted by many UK master’s programmes :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.
2.3 Internal Test or Interview
Some universities let you take their own test or do an interview in English. If you pass, IELTS is not required :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.
2.4 Pre‑sessional English Course
If your English score is low, you can take a short course at the university before the main programme. When you complete it, you can start your master’s without IELTS :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.
3. Universities That Accept No‑IELTS for Master’s
Here are some UK universities that offer master’s programmes **without requiring IELTS**, often using MOI or other methods:
- University of South Wales
- University of Hertfordshire
- Birmingham City University
- University of Portsmouth
- University of Greenwich
- Sheffield Hallam University
- De Montfort University
- Robert Gordon University
- University of Essex
- University of Brighton
- University of Northumbria
- London South Bank University
These schools may accept MOI, alternate exams, or internal tests :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.
For each school and programme, double-check the entry page to see which method they allow.
4. Step‑by‑Step Application Guide
Step 1: Shortlist Courses and Universities
Pick master’s programmes that match your goals. Look for those that accept MOI or other proofs instead of IELTS. Use university websites and lists above as reference :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
- Academic transcripts and degree certificate
- MOI certificate (if applicable)
- Alternate exam result (TOEFL, etc.), if you have one
- CV or résumé
- Personal statement / motivation letter
- 2–3 recommendation letters
- Passport copy
Step 3: Work on Your Personal Statement
Write in clear English explaining:
- Why you chose this course
- Your background and skills
- Your career goals after graduation
This is a key part of your application.
Step 4: Apply Online
Most master’s programmes allow direct online applications. Follow these steps:
- Create an account on the uni portal
- Select your programme and intake (e.g., September 2025)
- Upload scanned documents
- Pay the application fee (usually £50–100)
- Submit your application
Step 5: Wait for an Offer
The university reviews your file and checks your English proof. If successful, they send you an offer letter (either conditional or unconditional).
Step 6: Accept Offer & Get CAS
Unconditional offer means you can accept it and receive a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) number. This is required for your UK visa.
Step 7: Apply for UK Student Visa
With your CAS, apply for a Tier 4 (General) visa. You need:
- Valid passport
- CAS number
- Proof of funds (approx £1,334 per month)
- TB test (if required)
- English proof (MOI or accepted test)
Step 8: Prepare for Travel & Arrival
- Book your flight once visa is granted
- Arrange accommodation (university halls or private)
- Get UK travel insurance
- Pack important documents: offer letter, CAS, passport, financial proof
Step 9: Settlement in the UK
- Register with immigration (BRP collection)
- Open a UK bank account
- Buy a UK SIM card
- Attend university orientation
- Start your classes and academic journey!
5. Tips to Boost Your Application
- Request MOI early: It may take time to get.
- Consider alternates: Testing by TOEFL or Duolingo may help.
- Write a strong personal statement: It shows your English skill.
- Apply early: Intakes are busy and places fill fast.
- Check CAS conditions: Ensure English proof is valid for visa.
- Prepare for possible interview: Some schools ask for one.
6. How IvyPlug Can Help You
If you’re unsure about essays, MOI, visa, or choosing universities, IvyPlug offers full support:
- Essay & personal statement help: Structure, tone, style, grammar.
- Application advising: Choose best English proof method, pick universities.
- Visa support: Help with CAS, funds proof, and visa application.
- Test prep: For alternate tests or internal English interviews.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can I do a UK master’s without IELTS? | Yes, if university accepts MOI, alternate test, internal test, or pre‑sessional English :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}. |
| Is an MOI enough for visa? | Yes, if uni accepts, and it meets UKVI conditions (on letterhead, signed, contact info) :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}. |
| Can I take Duolingo? | Yes. It’s accepted by many universities but always confirm for your course. |
| Do I need a pre‑sessional course? | You may. It’s helpful if your English isn’t strong yet. |
| When should I start? | About 10–12 months before your intended start date. MOI and visa take time. |
8. Summary Checklist
- Choose universities accepting MOI or alternate proof.
- Request MOI from your Nigerian institution.
- Optionally take TOEFL, Duolingo, or PTE.
- Prepare and submit documents + application fee.
- Wait for offer → receive CAS.
- Apply for student visa with all documents.
- Book travel, find accommodation, and prepare for arrival.
- Settle in the UK and begin your studies!
9. Final Thoughts
Studying for your master’s in the UK **without IELTS** is doable if you plan ahead. Use an MOI certificate, take an alternate English test, or use internal tests/interview options. Pick a university, gather your materials, write good essays, and apply early. For extra help with applications, visa process, and English proof, IvyPlug can guide you every step of the way. Your UK study journey starts here—best of luck!