Introduction
With over 1.5 billion speakers spread across 180+ countries, English is the most spoken language for business communication worldwide. But it’s not everyone’s first and native language. It’s completely understandable, then, that you may experience some performance anxiety when applications to study abroad compulsorily ask for English language proficiency tests. You might find yourself asking, is IELTS required for a Dubai student visa?
While the International English Language Testing System, popularly known as the IELTS, is a widely accepted test of competence, there are several higher education institutions in Dubai that do not compulsorily require applicants to take the IELTS test to get accepted into academic programs. In its place, they measure proficiency through alternative and reliable gauges.
In this post, we’ll examine whether the IELTS is required for a Dubai student visa
Understanding Dubai Student Visa Requirements
Is IELTS required for a Dubai student visa?
Not really. However, every international student wishing to study in Dubai needs to apply for a student visa, which is also known as the student residence visa. You will need to apply 7-14 days after getting accepted and should provide:
Academic requirements
- An acceptance letter from an institute licensed by the Dubai Ministry of Education
- School academic transcripts and high school certification (Xth and XIIth or their equivalent).
- Language proficiency tests. Some universities exempt students from taking IELTS, provided they can provide proof of studying in an English medium and scoring 70%+.
- For those pursuing Master’s degree programs, the preceding degree needs to be attested by the U.A.E. embassy in your country of origin. For example, if your Bachelor’s degree was obtained from India, the U.A.E consulate in India needs to attest it.
Note: Attestation is checked upon arrival and is mandatory for all. We advise you to plan posting your document to the embassy well in advance as a buffer against processing delays.
Legal Requirements
- A passport that is valid for a minimum period of 6 months.
- Medical insurance coverage (compulsory, with price depending on coverage).
- Several passport-sized photos, measuring 51mmx51mm. Preferred clothing should be dark.
- The completed online visa form.
Financial requirements
- Proof of funds sufficiency from the sponsor, if self-sponsored (a 6-month bank statement will suffice). As a general guideline, we suggest showing a minimum balance of AED 30,000*, or ~INR 7.2L*.
- The proof to cover the cost of living (min AED 25,000 annually).
- The sponsorship letter and proof of receipt of scholarship(if awarded).
- Payment receipt for tuition fees.
*figures are correct as of the date of publishing.
Medical requirements
- Medical fitness tests for tuberculosis, HIV, and Hepatitis B. A background check is carried out in addition to the medical checks.
Since the visa serves as residence proof, it’s typically issued 7 days after arrival and after clearing the medical and background checks. The visa will be stamped on your passport. Officials will also issue you an Emirati card, entitling you to move around freely and work part-time for up to 60 hours/ month during term time (or 15 hours weekly) and 160 hours/month otherwise
Benefits of Studying in Dubai
- Academic Exposure: With its new E-33 strategy, Dubai is championing educational excellence and partnering with leading research bodies to fund scholars in the fields of information communication technology, bioengineering innovation and climate change. Several American and British universities have set up campuses in Dubai, with the possibility to transfer and benefit from a truly global education. Dubai’s commitment to innovation offers manifold opportunities to tap into your own potential and further your dreams!
- Proximity to India: Compared to the U.S and U.K., Dubai is close to India, presenting affordable airfare for weekend trips or semester breaks for when homesickness hits hard!
- Cost of Education: Academic programs in Universities like Murdoch and Amity University start at AED 25000-35,000* (approx INR 5L to 8L*), which is 3x more affordable than the tuition in universities located in the U.S, U.K. and Australia.
- Safety: Dubai is consistently ranked for its low crime rate and quick responsiveness from the Dubai Police that keeps the streets safe.
- Updated Visa Policy: exceptionally gifted students with a demonstrable record of scoring 90% in school can qualify for the long-term 5-year student visa, preventing you from having to annually renew it and pay the requisite fee. Outstanding students can even remain in the country for 10 years without a sponsor by taking the Golden visa route. The processing time has been considerably reduced with Salama, the AI-powered system that simplifies transactions, reduces navigation and shortens residency processing timelines.
- Lucrative Job Market: With high demand in the transportation/logistics/warehousing, consumer goods and retail industries, students can discover and explore career pathways that let them apply their learning in the practical context. Some universities have strong industry linkages that let students get paid internships, which can support them financially.
- Part-time Work Opportunities: Students who hold a valid U.A.E. work permit and have the necessary authorization from their university are allowed to work part-time for 4 consecutive hours. This is granted at the discretion of the Ministry of Human Resources.
- Alternative English Proficiency Testing: Students whose first language isn’t English can submit proof of having studied in the English medium with consistently high marks. The university may additionally send interview invitations as part of the assessment process. Some universities like Wollongong (UOWD) administer their own internal test to determine the candidate’s aptitude for their chosen course. Accepted IELTS alternatives include TOEFL, Pearson Test of English and Cambridge exams. This varies from university to university.
How to Apply for a Dubai Student Visa
- Apply to institutions before deadlines and ensure all documentation included is updated and error-free. The individual application requirements can vary according to the university, but commonly include aptitude tests, interviews and language competence exams.
- The accepted tests include TOEFL, PTE (Both Internet and Paper-based testing), Cambridge C1/C2 and even Duolingo certification (only at select universities). Like the IELTS, TOEFL scores are valid for 2 years.
- Apply for the visa and fill out the application form after receiving the formal acceptance letter from the university.
- The application form will ask you to fill in your passport number, degree, expected start date and pay the requisite application fee. Processing usually occurs within 10-15 working days.
- Fees for visa processing: AED 2,300 -AED 2,700
- Visa deposit refundable: AED 2,500- AED 3,000
- Medical insurance costs: AED 1,300- AED 1,400
- Gather academic, financial and medical documents, including previous academic transcripts, passport-sized photos, financial proof for tuition fee receipts, lodgings and daily expenses (bank statements or a letter from the sponsor) and medical tests.
Comparison of English Proficiency Tests
| Test Name | Score Validity | Acceptance Score | Accepted By |
|---|---|---|---|
| IELTS | 2 years | 6.0–6.5 (UG/PG) | A majority of the universities accept either IELTS or TOEFL- including the University of Dubai, Heriot-Watt University Dubai, Middlesex University Dubai, University of Wollongong in Dubai and American University in Dubai. These are also licensed institutes by the GDRFA. |
| TOEFL iBT | 2 years | 60 for UG;80 for PG. | Same as above. |
| Duolingo English Test (DET) | 2 years | 160 points based; take-home test that can be completed in 2 hours and entails Speaking, Listening,Reading and Writing sections. | Test scores are sent to the university by Duolingo.At present, New York University (Dubai), Global Banking and Nest Academy of Management in Dubai accept DET scores. |
| PTE Academic | 2 years | 50–70 (varies by program) | Broadly accepted (University of Wollongong in Dubai, Heriot-Watt, Middlesex, American University in Dubai). |
| Cambridge English (C1 Advanced/C2 Proficiency) | Indefinite (often 2 years for admission purposes) | C1 Advanced: 169–180+ | Accepted by select top universities (University of Dubai, Heriot-Watt University Dubai). More acceptance for C2 scores. |
| EmSAT (English) | 2 years | 1400+ (for most UG/PG; varies) | Default requirement for UAE nationals and some international students at public/universities in UAE; not always used by private institutions. |
| University Internal Test | N/A (Typically valid only for that admission cycle) | University sets level (typically equivalent to IELTS 6.0) | Specific universities, e.g., Middlesex University Dubai, for applicants without standard test scores. |
| Medium of Instruction Waiver | N/A | N/A (proof of English-medium prior education) | On a case-by-case basis, and if there’s an exemplary academic record in English. |
Tips for Preparing for English Proficiency Tests
-
Daily Check-ins
Set an alarm on your phone, time limit and a person to converse with in English. It can be a family member, friend, neighbor or even a run to a favorite cafe, gym or library. The more you interact with people who are already fluent in English, the more confident you emerge in your communication.
- Solve Word Puzzles Crosswords and word challenges can greatly improve your vocabulary and allow you to understand the context in which to use certain words.
- Listen to Podcasts and Audiobooks Subscribing to English podcasts on Spotify, Apple or other streaming platforms carries dual benefits; you not only improve your listening and comprehension ability but can also understand interviewing styles as per the audience and guest. This helps you when your turn with the admissions team comes up!
- Explore Language Learning apps Even if DET’s not as widely accepted as IELTS or TOEFL, language apps gamify learning, making it more fun! Besides Duolingo, apps like Mango Learning, Bunpo, Busuu and LingoDeer can be instantly downloaded to get you going!
- Watch TV series and movies without subtitles Yes, we know- asking you to watch something without subtitles is like asking you to ride a bicycle for the first time without the training wheels. But at some point, the wheels have to come off, and if you can master cycling, then you can become conversant in English. Consciously uncheck subtitle options before proceeding to binge-watch your favourite TV shows. What’s more, you’ll hear different accents and can tell the American and British accents apart, which will come in useful when you eventually become part of an international cohort!
Conclusion
Is IELTS required for a Dubai student visa? Not strictly speaking. While it’s a trusted barometer of one’s understanding of the English language for professional purposes, it’s not the only scale that universities use to measure a student’s competence. So long as your academic records, medical tests and background checks are satisfactory, nothing can stop you from pursuing your dream of studying in a city as vibrant and dynamic as Dubai!
Fateh Education brings 20+ years of specialised experience in higher education consulting, helping you play to your strengths and align your profile to academic requirements. If you’re ready to set foot in Dubai, we’ve got you covered. Reach out to our education advisors to make your goals a reality!
FAQS
No, while most universities do not ask for the IELTS score, they expect evidence of competence through alternative tests such as their internal tests, TOEFL or Cambridge C1 and C2 scores.
The alternative English language proficiency tests that are recognized in Dubai include TOEFL iBT, Pearson Test of English (PTE), Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE), DET and emSAT (Dubai-based).
Students may be exempted from taking the IELTs exam if they have a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate from their former school, and if their marks are between 70 to 90%.
Being offered a place at a recognized Dubai university qualifies you to apply for the Dubai student visa, regardless of whether you took or didn’t take any English proficiency tests. While some universities completely exempt IELTS, it’s best to check with the university’s admissions office beforehand for what proof is accepted by them that you’re proficient in the language.