If you are planning to apply for an undergraduate programme at University College London (UCL) for 2026 entry, it is important to understand the required application steps and academic criteria — including English language proficiency. This guide explains both the general entry requirements and the English language requirements in clear, straightforward terms.

1. Application Process and Entry Requirements

When applying to UCL you should follow these steps:

1. Apply via UCAS. UCL’s undergraduate programmes are entered through UCAS for the 2026 admissions cycle.
2. Ensure you meet the entry requirements for the programme you are interested in. Meeting the minimum requirement does not guarantee admission because competition may be high.
3. Select the year of entry. Most UCL programmes begin in Year 1 (first year) unless otherwise stated. Some may consider Year 2 entry in very limited cases.
4. Apply by the UCAS “equal consideration” deadline to ensure your application is given full review. Applications after this date might not be treated equally.

Academic Requirements

UCL evaluates your application based on specific subject and grade requirements rather than UCAS tariff points.

1. For UK A-level applicants: UCL typically expects offers in the range A A A to A B B**, depending on the programme.
2. For the International Baccalaureate Diploma (IBDP): UCL requires at least three higher level (HL) subjects. They equate IBDP scores roughly to A-level grades:
3. AAA ≈ 40 points overall including 20 in three higher level subjects
4. A*AA ≈ 39 points and 19 in three higher level subjects
5. AAA ≈ 38 points and 18 in three higher level subjects
6. For other UK/qualification types (BTEC, Access to HE Diplomas, Scottish Highers, etc.), each programme page lists the required equivalent grades. Always check the website for your specific qualification.

Subject Requirements

1. If a programme specifies a subject requirement (for example, A-level in Mathematics or Chemistry), that subject must be taken at the required level.
2. Some qualifications are not accepted for certain programmes (for example, UCL does not accept the International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme [IBCP] for most programmes).

2. English Language Requirements

If you are not a national of a majority English-speaking country, or have not studied in one, you will generally need to provide evidence of English language proficiency.

When proof is not required

You do not need to provide English language evidence if you are a national of one of these majority English-speaking countries: Australia, Canada, New Zealand, USA, UK, Ireland, and some Caribbean territories.

How you can meet the requirement

You can meet UCL’s English language requirement by one of the following:

1. Completing at least 12 consecutive months of academic study (leading to a qualification) in a majority English-speaking country within the last two years before the enrolment date.
2. Taking an accepted English language test or qualification: UCL assigns proficiency requirements on a Level 1 to Level 5 scale — Level 5 is the highest. You should check the specific test scores required for your programme.

Tests and scores (examples)

1. For the IELTS Academic test:
2. Level 1: Overall 6.5 with minimum 6.0 in each component
3. Level 2: Overall 7.0 with minimum 6.5 in each component
4. Level 3: Overall 7.0 with minimum 7.0 in each component
5. Level 4: Overall 7.5 with minimum 7.0 in each component
6. Level 5: Overall 8.0 with minimum 8.0 in each component
7. For the TOEFL iBT:
8. Level 1: Overall 92 with reading/writing 24 each and speaking/listening 20 each
9. Level 2: Overall 96 with reading/writing 24 each and speaking/listening 22 each
10. Level 3: Overall 100 with reading/writing 25 each and speaking/listening 23 each
11. Level 4: Overall 109 with reading/writing 27 each and speaking/listening 23 each
12. Level 5: Overall 110 with reading/writing 29 each and speaking/listening 23 each

Important notes

1. Your test result must be no more than two years old at the date of enrolment.
2. UCL does not accept “one-skill” retakes of some tests; you will likely need to retake the full test if you do not meet the required component scores.

3. Tips for Applicants from Bangladesh or International Applicants

1. Confirm whether your national qualification is considered equivalent to UK A-levels or IBDP as specified by UCL for your chosen programme. Use the “Other qualifications” section on the UCL programme page.
2. If you are required to provide an English language test result, book early — test centres become busy, especially for IELTS/TOEFL.
3. Make sure you meet both overall and component minimum scores for your test — UCL checks each skill separately.
4. If you completed your prior education in English but outside a majority English-speaking country, check whether it qualifies under the “12 months study” rule.
5. While meeting minimum grades is essential, also focus on your personal statement, subject relevance and other application components — competition is strong.

4. Final Thoughts

Applying to UCL for undergraduate study requires you to:

1. Meet the academic entry requirements for your chosen programme.
2. Fulfil the English language requirements if applicable.
3. Apply via UCAS by the relevant deadline and ensure all conditions of your offer are met.

Doing all of this carefully will ensure your application is in the best position for consideration. Good preparation now will support your chance of success in joining UCL in 2026.

References

1. https://www.ucl.ac.uk/prospective-students/undergraduate/how-apply/entry-requirements
2. https://www.ucl.ac.uk/prospective-students/undergraduate/how-apply/english-language-requirements