Applicants need to be proficient in using English in an academic setting. You may need to submit evidence that you meet our English language requirements.

For most courses, you do not need to provide evidence until we make you an offer. We will let you know what is required.

For theMaster of Law (LLM) andMaster of Corporate Law (MCL) courses, you need to provide evidence when you apply. Check the course pages for further guidance.

Do I need to take a test?

When you apply, the Applicant Portal will estimate whether you need to submit an English language test result. 

You do not usually need to submit an English language test result if:

• you are a national of a majority English-speaking country and were educated in such a country

or

• you have a 3-year qualification equivalent to at least a UK Bachelor's Degree from a majority English-speaking country, excluding Canada. You must have graduated from that course no more than 2 years before the start of your chosen Cambridge course or have been living and working in a majority English-speaking country since you graduated.

Accepted language tests

We accept the following language tests:

• IELTS (Academic), IELTS for UKVI Academic, IELTS One Skill Retake, IELTS Online
• TOEFL iBT (including Home Edition) taken on or before 21 January 2026* 
• C1 Advanced and C2 Proficiency (for some courses)

Checkyour course page for the scores required for your course. 

It is not possible to combine scores from different language test certificates. You must meet the minimum requirements for all elements in the same sitting.  

* Due to changes in test format, if you complete your TOEFL after 21 January 2026, you may be asked to take an additional assessment at the University of Cambridge Language Centre.

Taking your language test

When to take your test

There can often be long waiting times for language tests. 

You should usually make arrangements to take a test as soon as possible after you get an offer. This means that you will have enough time to resit the test if you need to. 

Your test result must be dated no more than 2 years before the start of your course. 

How to provide your results

You can report your language test results by uploading a valid test certificate to:  

• the Applicant Portal before you submit your application. This is optional for all courses except LLM and MCL 
• your Self-Service account after you’re made an offer  

We will verify your results using online verification services. 

We cannot accept test reports that are sent to us directly from IELTS or TOEFL. 

If you need a visa

If you meet the language requirement for admission, you will not need to provide further evidence of your English language ability in your visa application.

Find out more aboutvisas and immigration.