How to apply
English Language requirements
for postgraduate programmes
Non-native speakers of English need to be able to demonstrate the required level of English Language competence to enrol on our programmes.
The table on the right shows which English Language proficiency qualifications we accept. We prefer IELTS because it shows us which areas of your English might need to be improved.
If you have a lower score than any of these, but at least 5.0 in IELTS or equivalent, you may be offered a place if you attend an approved Pre-sessional English Language course at Goldsmiths. We also offer International Pathways, designed for students preparing to study for a postgraduate degree at Goldsmiths or another UK institution.
Some programmes require a score of 7.0 in IELTS (including 7.0 in the written element) before admission can be considered. This will be stated in individual programme descriptions where relevant.
Social work programmes
Please note that non-native speaker applicants to social work programmes must provide evidence that they meet communicating and comprehension skills to IELTS at level 7.
Please note that IELTS, TOEFL and other English Language proficiency qualifications are not acceptable in place of GCSE English for Initial Teacher Education programmes.
In line with the validity period for IELTS and TOEFL qualifications, English proficiency qualifications must be less than two years old at the time you will commence the course to be valid.
*The IGCSE English as a Second Language qualification needs a supplementary certifying certificate (which can be applied for at a cost of £37-£50) to meet our requirements.
| Test | Minimum required score/level | Higher equivalence score |
| IELTS | 6.5 (with a minimum of 6.5 in the written element and no individual element lower than 6.0) | 7.0 (with a minimum of 7.0 in the written element and no individual element lower than 6.5) |
| TOEFL | 92 in the internet based test (with minimum scores of listening 21, reading 22, speaking 23 and writing 23) | 100 in the internet based test (with minimum scores of listening 23, reading 24, speaking 25 and writing 25) |
| Pearson Test of English (Academic) | A score of 58 overall with at least 58 in the written element and no individual element lower than 51 | An overall score of 65 with at least 65 in the written element and no individual element lower than 58 |
| IGCSE English as a Second Language* | Grade C | Grade B |
| Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency of English Level 5 | Grade C | Grade C |
| Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English Level 4 | Grade B | Grade B |
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