Can You Get an English Proficiency Waiver? Universities Accepting 12th English Marks Instead of IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE in 2026

Each year, many students start preparing for English proficiency tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE before checking if their chosen universities might actually waive these requirements.

Some universities consider your Class 12 English marks, English-medium schooling, or other evidence of language skills. If you meet their standards, you might not need to take an English test.

Yes, English proficiency waivers are real — but they're never automatic.

Universities in the UK, Ireland, USA, Canada, and Australia may waive English-language test requirements such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE if you studied in English and earned good marks in Class 12 English.

However, each university has its own definition of what counts as "strong marks."

Some universities require 70% in English, while others want 75% or more. Some look at your entire schooling history rather than just one subject. So, assuming you will get a waiver without checking can be risky.

The distinction most students miss

Getting a waiver for an English test does not mean the university has dropped its English language requirement.

Universities still need proof that you can study in English. Instead of a test like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE, they might accept other evidence of your English skills.

This is why two students applying to the same country might get very different decisions.

For example, a student with 85% in CBSE English might get a waiver, but another student with similar grades and lower English marks may still need to take IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or another accepted test.

Which countries are most flexible?

Some countries are much more open to giving English proficiency waivers than others.

You should not pick a country just because it offers waivers. The university, program quality, work options after graduation, and total cost are more important.

Universities that may consider 12th English marks

Since policies change often, always check the latest requirements from the official sites or consultancies before you apply.

Many universities have considered English waivers for eligible Indian students, including:

• University of Warwick
• University of Manchester
• University of Glasgow
• University College Dublin
• University of Adelaide
• University of South Australia (After merger known as Adelaide University)

It is interesting that top-ranked universities are not always stricter. Some may offer an English proficiency waiver, while others still require test scores like IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or the Duolingo English Test.

That's why university selection matters more than assumptions.

Should you skip English proficiency tests if you're eligible for a waiver?

Even if you qualify for a waiver, taking an English language test can still be a good idea.

Scoring high on IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL can significantly strengthen your application, especially for competitive universities, programs, or scholarships with few seats. Some scholarship providers and visa offices might consider these test results as supporting evidence of your academic skills.

There is also another practical benefit.

If you apply to several universities and only some accept waivers, having a valid English test score gives you more flexibility and keeps your options open during admissions.

Many successful students see an English test as a useful backup, not just a requirement.

A quick example from ACHIVIA students

At ACHIVIA, an overseas education consultancy in India, counselors first check whether students qualify for an English proficiency waiver before advising them on whether to take the IELTS or another English test.

For example, take one of our students, Chinmay Sahoo, who secured admission to the University of Warwick with the help of ACHIVIA and navigated admissions and visa processes with absolute ease and clear guidance throughout his application journey.

Similarly, Aarzoo Verma, who was admitted to University College Dublin, thanked the team for helping with her application documents, scholarship essays, and IELTS preparation when needed.

The main point is not that everyone should skip English proficiency tests.

Instead, the right approach depends on your profile, the universities you are applying to, and your timeline.

What documents do universities usually ask for?

If you plan to ask for an English proficiency waiver, get these documents ready early:

• Class 10 and Class 12 mark sheets
• Medium of Instruction certificate
• School letter confirming English as the language of teaching
• Passport
• Academic transcripts
• University-specific waiver form (if required)

Missing even one document could delay a decision by weeks; hence, it's important to ensure all documents are well prepared.

Related resources

You might also find these ACHIVIA articles helpful:

• Cracking the IELTS: Your Complete Guide to Success
• Duolingo English Test: A Game-Changer for Indian Students Studying Abroad?
• Exams to Write to Pursue a Bachelor's Degree Abroad

FAQ

Q: Can CBSE students get an IELTS waiver?

A: Yes. Many universities review CBSE English scores and may grant waivers if you meet their minimum requirements. The exact cutoff varies by institution.

Q: Is a Medium of Instruction certificate enough?

A: Sometimes. Many universities require it together with academic transcripts and English subject scores.

Q: Which country offers the most IELTS waivers for Indian students?

A: The UK and Ireland generally provide some of the most accessible waiver pathways, although eligibility rests on the university and program.

The students who manage this best aren't looking for shortcuts — they're the ones who ask the right questions early. Before registering for IELTS, it's worth getting your profile evaluated against the specific requirements of your target universities. The answer might save you time, money, and months of unnecessary preparation.

Ready to find out if you're eligible for an English proficiency waiver? Book your free Study Abroad Counseling session with ACHIVIA today. Get expert support for University Selection, SOP / Essay Editing, Resume Review, and IELTS / TOEFL Test Preparation.

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