The general picture
| Country | Typical requirement | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Cyprus | 5.5 | Many universities run their own English test |
| Bulgaria | 5.5 | The university's own online test is common |
| Malta | 5.5–6.0 | English is an official language |
| Hungary | 5.5–6.0 | Varies by programme on Stipendium |
| Italy | 6.0 | Many master's accept an MOI certificate |
| Greece | 6.0 | Varies by programme |
| Finland | 6.0–6.5 | Band conditions common |
| Sweden | 6.5 | "English 6" standard, no band below 5.5 |
| Denmark | 6.5 | The strictest |
⚠️ The final number belongs to the programme, not the country. Use this table to shortlist, then check each programme page.
Bachelor's versus master's
A common misconception is that master's programmes ask for more. Often it is the reverse:
- Bachelor's requirements can be stricter, since the student arrives straight from school and will study in English for three or four years
- Master's programmes frequently allow a waiver where the previous degree was taught in English — which is where an MOI certificate helps
"Overall" is not the whole condition
This is the most overlooked requirement and the most common cause of rejection. It is usually written like this:
"IELTS Academic 6.5 overall, with no individual band below 5.5"
So 6.5 overall with 5.0 in writing does not qualify.
For Bangladeshi test-takers the lowest band is typically writing, then speaking. Prepare for band balance rather than simply raising the overall — see the preparation plan.
Academic, not General
Always IELTS Academic. General Training is not accepted for study; it is for migration and work. Sitting the wrong module costs both the fee and two months.
Validity
IELTS scores are normally valid for two years. Taking the test too early can mean it expires during the application cycle, particularly if you are planning a year ahead. It must be valid at both the admission and the visa stage, so time it deliberately.
Where flexibility exists
Three alternatives genuinely work, each with limits:
- 1The university's own English test — common in Cyprus, Malta and Bulgaria; usually online and inexpensive
- 2An MOI certificate — where previous study was in English; works for many Italian master's, less so in the Nordics
- 3Another test — TOEFL almost everywhere, PTE in many places, Duolingo in some
⚠️ But note: a waiver at admission does not guarantee one at the visa stage. Some countries require separate language evidence for the residence permit. Check both the admissions office and that country's immigration page.
Practical strategy
- 1Choose programmes first, then set the target score — not the other way round
- 2Aim half a band above the requirement — a safety margin, and it helps for scholarships
- 3Budget time and money for a second attempt — do not assume one sitting will do it
- 4Match the result date to the application deadline — results take time to arrive
Official sources — check for yourself
Rules and figures change. We review these articles periodically and show the date above, but always confirm the current requirement with the official source before you act on it.
Common questions
What IELTS score do I need for Europe?+
Roughly three levels: 5.5 for Cyprus, Bulgaria, Malta and many Hungarian programmes; 6.0 for Italy, Greece and many Finnish ones; 6.5 for most Nordic programmes and Denmark. The final number belongs to the programme, so check each page.
Is the overall score enough?+
No. Requirements usually read '6.5 overall, with no individual band below 5.5', so 6.5 overall with a 5.0 in writing does not qualify — and writing is typically the weakest band for Bangladeshi test-takers.
Academic or General Training?+
Always IELTS Academic. General Training is not accepted for study; it is for migration and work. Sitting the wrong module costs the fee and the preparation time.
How long is an IELTS score valid?+
Normally two years, and it must be valid at both the admission and the visa stage — so taking it too early in a year-long plan risks expiry mid-cycle.
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