If you plan to study in the UK but struggle to meet the English language requirements for tests such as IELTS, OIETC, or TOEFL, we have some good news! Many UK universities now offer internal English language tests as an alternative way of proving your proficiency. The universities themselves accept these tests and are often easier, quicker, and more affordable. In this article, we’ll learn about internal English tests, how they work, registration fees, how to prepare, and which universities in the UK currently offer them.
An Internal English Test is a university-administered English language assessment designed to evaluate a student’s ability to study in English. It is usually taken online and tests your skills in:
- Reading
- Writing
- Listening
- Speaking
These tests are university-specific; QA Affiliated Universities accept QA’s PASSWORD internal English test, meaning the results are only valid for the institution that offers them. If you pass, you won’t need to submit external test scores like IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or even Duolingo.
UK Universities Offering Internal English Language Tests
Here are the popular UK universities that allow students to take an internal English test instead of a specific language test like IELTS, OIETC & Duolingo:
1. QA Universities
For students who have applied through QA Higher Education, they offer the QA Higher Education/Password English Language Tests that are accepted by the Ulster University Branch Campuses, Northumbria University, and the University of South Wales.
These tests are only available to those who hold a Conditional Offer with QA and QA’s partners. By giving the PASSWORD exam, students can take admission in all its universities
Essential Considerations for the Test
To ensure a smooth testing experience, you must use a desktop or laptop with a stable internet connection—mobile devices are not supported. Skype must be installed, and a working webcam, microphone, and speakers are essential for communication. A valid passport is also required for identification during the test.
English Language Test Structure and Modules
Password Skills is made up of four test modules – reading, writing, listening, and speaking. The test takes 3 hours and 5 minutes to complete and is run in two parts. The first part assesses reading and writing, and the second part assesses listening and speaking. Test-takers can take a break between the two parts. The test is aligned to the CEFR (A2 to C1) and delivers extremely accurate and reliable results. Divided these texts among their passages.
The Speaking module includes a self-introduction, topic discussion, and debate. Listening and Reading involve answering questions based on audio and texts, while Writing requires a 250–300 word essay. Each section is assessed to determine overall proficiency.
Booking Your English Language Test
After receiving a conditional offer, students must complete a declaration form and select a test date. A confirmation will follow with all instructions. On test day, communication is conducted via Skype. If a reschedule is needed, timely notice is required. The test is administered by QA Higher Education assessors.
For more information about the test modules.
2. University of Northampton
UONL has partnered with Password to deliver computer-based English language tests. Designed and academically managed by CRELLA (the Centre for Research in English Language Learning and Assessment), Password English language tests are involved in the development and validation of many of the world’s most renowned English language assessments, including IELTS and the Cambridge suite.
The tests are formally aligned to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), the international standard for describing language ability.
Click here to learn with details about the UONL English Test.
Several UK universities, as well as QA-affiliated institutions and the University of Northampton, offer internal English language tests as an alternative to external exams such as IELTS. The University of the West of England (UWE Bristol) offers online English language test (ELT), frequently in conjunction with foundational or pre-sessional English courses. Birmingham City University offers its online English test for postgraduate applicants. Regent’s University London, a private university, offers flexible assessment options, including internal tests and interviews. University College Birmingham, renowned for its vocational programmes, permits applicants who do not meet IELTS requirements to take an internal English test. Likewise, the University of Law carries out internal assessments during admissions for students who do not have valid external English test scores. These options make it easier and more flexible for international students who want to study in the UK.
Who Can Take an Internal Test?
Generally, internal English tests are ideal for:
- Students who studied in an English-medium school but lack IELTS/TOEFL certificates
- Those who missed the IELTS test dates or failed to meet the required score
- Applicants from countries where English is widely used but not considered a native language
Internal English tests open a new gateway to studying in the UK for students who may struggle with external English proficiency exams. With flexible test formats, fast results, and growing acceptance among UK universities, it’s a reliable route to start your academic journey in the UK, without IELTS or TOEFL. While a retake option is available, a mandatory waiting period ensures candidates have adequate time for preparation. Partner universities accept this test as a valid measure of English proficiency, streamlining the admission process for eligible applicants.
Want Help Applying?
If you’re interested in applying to one of these universities or need help preparing for the internal test, contact STS Global Education for step-by-step support.
