Language & IELTS
Find the exact English requirement for your programme, check whether MOI or Duolingo is accepted instead, and book the test early enough to retake it.
English proof worries students more than it should. Start by finding the exact requirement for your specific programme rather than the country in general — the figures for your shortlisted countries are shown below. Most European bachelor's and master's programmes ask for somewhere between IELTS 5.5 and 6.5, and many also specify a minimum in each band, which is the part people miss until it is too late.
IELTS is not always the only route. A large number of universities accept a Medium of Instruction certificate — an official letter from your school or college confirming you were taught in English — and some accept Duolingo English Test or their own online assessment. Cyprus, Malta and Bulgaria are the most flexible about MOI; Italy and the Nordic countries usually want a recognised test. Never assume: the programme page states which evidence it accepts, and that page is the only authority worth trusting.
Plan the timing backwards from the application deadline. Book your test at least two to three months before you need the score. Results take a few days, and if the score comes back below the requirement you need enough room to book a retake and still make the deadline. Popular Dhaka slots at the British Council and IDP fill up weeks ahead, so book the date before you feel ready rather than after.
Pick a country to see this stage's country-specific detail — costs, IELTS, documents and the funds you must show.