Kingston University London Introduces English Test Waiver for International Students for 2026 Intake

Kingston University London Introduces English Test Waiver for International Students for 2026 Intake

Kingston upon Thames, EnglandLocation
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Shreyashi Pathak

Study Abroad Expert | Updated on - Dec 4, 2025

Kingston University London has announced a helpful update for Indian students applying for the 2026 intake. The university now offers an English language waiver, meaning eligible students do not need to take IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE to prove English proficiency. Instead, Kingston accepts Class 12 (XII) English scores from recognized Indian education boards as proof of language ability.

This waiver makes the admission process faster, easier, and more affordable, saving students the cost of English tests (for example, IELTS typically costs around ₹16,500). The requirement is assessed during the application review and follows UKVI (UK Visas & Immigration) guidelines.

This benefit is available for both UG and PG applicants, provided they meet the required score threshold in English. It is especially useful for students coming from English-medium schooling backgrounds.


English Score Requirement for Waiver at Kingston University (Class 12 Board-Wise)

To offer a fair English waiver, Kingston University London sets different minimum English marks for different Indian boards, since grading standards vary. These scores refer only to the English subject and help the university match equivalent IELTS levels. For example, 70–80% in English generally equals an IELTS score of 6.0–6.5.

If students meet the required percentage based on their board, they can qualify for the English language waiver for UG and PG admissions in the 2026 intake.

Minimum English Marks Required (Board-wise)

Exam Board Equivalent to IELTS 6.0 / 6.5 (Most UG & PG) Equivalent to IELTS 7.0 (Some Programs) Notes
CBSE / ISC (CISCE) 70% 75% Accepted for most courses; applies to core English.
Maharashtra State Board (HSC/HSSC) 70% 75% Same criteria as CBSE/ISC; includes Mumbai University-affiliated schools.
Other State Boards (Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, etc., except Punjab, Haryana, Gujarat) 80% 85% Higher requirement due to grade variation; confirm during application.

Score Conversion Guide

  • 70% in English = IELTS 6.0 (no band below 5.5)
  • 75–80% = IELTS 6.5 (no band below 6.0)
  • 85%+ = IELTS 7.0 for specialist/advanced programs

If your score is slightly below the requirement, students can choose Kingston’s Pre-Sessional English Courses (4–10 weeks) to meet the proficiency level.


Eligibility Criteria for the English Waiver at Kingston University

To be eligible for the English language test waiver, Indian applicants must meet the following key requirements:

  • Complete Class 12 from a recognized Indian board.
  • Score the required minimum percentage in the English subject (based on board-wise criteria mentioned later).
  • Provide official mark sheets/transcripts during the application process.
  • Apply to a course where the required English level matches the waiver standard (e.g., IELTS 6.0 equivalent for most UG programs).

The waiver is available for both Undergraduate and Postgraduate courses.

For PG applicants, eligibility can also be met through a Medium of Instruction (MOI) Certificate from a Bachelor’s degree taught fully in English, valid for up to 5 years (not applicable to franchise/affiliated college programs).

Important Notes:
  • Class 12 qualification should ideally be completed within the last 2–3 years for automatic approval. Older results may need additional documents.
  • Students from Punjab, Haryana, and Gujarat State Boards are not eligible for the waiver and must submit standard English tests like IELTS.
  • Certain high-demand or specialist programs such as MA Journalism or Healthcare courses may require higher English scores equivalent to IELTS 7.0.

Why This Waiver Is a Big Advantage for Indian Students

This English waiver can make a real difference for Indian applicants. Here’s how:

  • Save Money: You don’t need to spend ₹15,000–₹20,000 on IELTS or TOEFL exam fees and coaching. You can use that money instead for visa costs or your first month’s stay in Kingston upon Thames.
  • Save Time: No waiting for test dates or results. Just submit your Class 12 marksheet and move faster toward receiving your offer.
  • Less Stress: You can focus on applications, SOPs, references, and portfolios instead of exam pressure. Kingston values your overall profile, not just a language score.
  • Better Access: Students from smaller towns or areas with fewer test centers benefit the most, making UK study opportunities more equal and accessible.

Overall, Kingston University’s English waiver policy is thoughtfully designed for Indian students, recognising that many of us already study through English from school onward. This makes the application process for the 2026 intake easier, quicker and more affordable since there is no need to take a separate English test. Once your application is in progress with the waiver, you can also explore opportunities like the £5000 International Scholarship, which supports strong academic performance and helps reduce study expenses. This creates a clear and encouraging pathway for Indian students planning to study at Kingston University.

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