How Pakistani Students Can Study Abroad Without IELTS

Many Pakistani students aspiring to study abroad are often discouraged by the fear of being rejected due to insufficient English proficiency scores

Concerns about achieving the required scores in the IELTS (the global and most popular English proficiency test) can deter students from applying, due to the challenging nature for non-native English speakers. In addition, the high fees make it impractical to attempt the test multiple times.

Different countries typically have alternative requirements to prove English proficiency. For instance, in the USA, alternatives include:

Acceptance if English is the student’s native language
Completion of one year of full-time academic study at a US institution

However, these requirements can sometimes be complex or stringent, which might deter many aspiring learners from applying.

For Pakistani students concerned about meeting the English proficiency requirements to study abroad, Malaysia offers several practical and less stressful options.

No IELTS? No problem!

In Malaysia, international students without IELTS scores have the following alternatives:

Medium of Instruction Letter: Students who have studied at English-medium institutions can provide a letter from their previous school confirming this. This letter can often waive the need for standardised English proficiency tests.
Recognised Qualifications: Holding recognised qualifications such as IGCSE O-Level, GCE A-Level, IB or CBSE can exempt students from taking additional English tests.
On-Arrival English Proficiency Test: Students can take an English proficiency test (such as IELTS, TOEFL or PTE Academic) upon their arrival in Malaysia.

Study in Malaysia without IELTS

For students who have difficulties securing their medium of instruction letter from their former school, the third option is especially popular because it greatly reduces the stress of getting ready before arrival.

Additionally, many Malaysian universities offer intensive English courses to help students quickly and effectively reach the required proficiency levels.

The location where you take your test can vary. You may need to take it at an official test centre or at your selected Malaysian university. This flexibility accommodates different circumstances, ensuring that you can select the most suitable setting for your testing needs.

Here’s an overview of the standard procedure for the third option:

Gain Admission: Students must first gain admission by receiving an offer letter from their chosen Malaysian university.
Arrival in Malaysia: Upon arrival, students who do not have an English language competency certificate can get a student pass for up to 12 months. They then have two options:

Option 1: Apply for a Visa Approval Letter (VAL) application and take an English proficiency test.

Option 2: Apply for a Visa Approval Letter (VAL) application and enrol in an English language certification programme. They will take the English proficiency test after completing the course.

Types of English Proficiency Tests in Malaysia

IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Widely recognised, it assesses listening, reading, writing and speaking skills. A minimum score of 5.5 is typically required.
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Another globally accepted test, often requiring a minimum score of 80 for the Internet-based Test (iBT).
PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English Academic): This test assesses practical English skills and is widely accepted. The Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) requires a minimum PTE Academic score of 47 for Bachelor’s degrees and above.

However, students are advised to check their university or college's specific language score requirements.

For Pakistani students planning to study in Malaysia, here’s a general summary of the fees for various English proficiency assessments available in Malaysia

English Proficiency Test Fees in Malaysia

IELTS LifeSkills	MYR 820 (PKR 48,750)
IELTS Academic or IELTS General Training (IELTS on Computer)	MYR 865 (PKR 49,640)
IELTS for UKVI	MYR 935 (PKR 55,600)
TOEFL iBT	RM 921 (PKR 54,760)
PTE Academic	RM690* (PKR 41,020) This rate is available when registering through Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) during the VAL application process.

The Ideal Study Destination

Malaysian universities are dedicated to offering extensive support services that make studying a worry-free experience.

Through academic advising, personalised tutoring, and access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, students can not only achieve their English certification with ease but also excel academically and reach their full potential.

Get a personalised support from our counsellors if you are interested in these opportunities. Reach out by clicking the WhatsApp icon in the right corner.

How Pakistani Students Can Study Abroad Without IELTS

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