If you want to study in Europe, you will often need proof of English. The exact level depends on the university, the programme, and sometimes the country. Many programmes ask for a level around B2 or C1, or for an IELTS or TOEFL score in a similar range.
What B2 and C1 usually mean
These levels come from the Common European Framework of Reference, often called CEFR. They are not a test score by themselves. They describe how well you can use English in real study situations.
- B2 means you can follow main ideas in lectures, read course texts, and write clear text on familiar topics.
- C1 means you can use English more flexibly, understand complex material, and write more detailed academic work.
- Some courses, especially in medicine, law, or teaching, may ask for a higher level or extra proof of writing and speaking.
Universities may list the requirement as a CEFR level, an IELTS score, a TOEFL score, or a different accepted test. The same programme can also accept more than one test.
Why the requirement changes
There is no single English rule for all of Europe. Each university sets its own admission rules, and some programmes add their own language limit.
- Undergraduate courses often ask for B2 or an IELTS score around 6.0 to 6.5.
- Master's courses often ask for C1 or an IELTS score around 6.5 to 7.0.
- Research programmes may ask for strong academic writing and reading, even if the formal number looks simple.
Do not guess from the country alone. A university in the same city can have different rules for different degrees, and sometimes even for different language tracks.
How universities check your English
Most universities ask for one of these:
- IELTS Academic
- TOEFL iBT
- Cambridge English exams
- PTE Academic
- A school diploma or previous degree taught in English, if the university accepts it
Some universities accept a certificate from your previous school or university if your full programme was taught in English. Others still want a test score. If the university allows an exemption, the rule is usually strict and limited.
Always check the programme page and the university's admissions page. That is the official source for the current accepted tests, minimum scores, validity period, and any exemption rules.
How to read an English requirement
When you see a language requirement, read the full sentence, not only the number.
- Check whether the programme wants an overall score only, or minimum scores in each part.
- Check whether the university accepts online test versions.
- Check whether the score must be recent. Many universities want a test that is still valid when you apply or enrol.
- Check whether the requirement is for admission, or only for final enrolment after you get an offer.
This matters because some universities let you apply before you have the final test result, but they will still need the proof later.
What to do if your level is lower
If you are below the stated requirement, you still may have options. The safe path is to check the programme rules and contact admissions before you assume anything.
- You may be able to take a pre-sessional or foundation course.
- You may be able to retake the test before the deadline.
- You may find another programme with a lower English requirement.
- You may qualify for a language exemption if your previous degree was taught in English, but only if the university says so.
Do not send a weak score and hope it will be ignored. Admissions offices usually follow the written rule. If the page says the minimum is fixed, they can reject an application that does not meet it.
How to avoid common mistakes
A few simple checks can save you time and money.
- Use the exact programme page, not a general page about the university.
- Check the official admissions page for the latest score and test list.
- Read whether the requirement is for EU and non-EU students alike, or whether the rules differ.
- Make sure your name on the test result matches your application documents.
- Keep a screenshot or PDF of the requirement in case the page changes later.
If the wording is unclear, write to admissions and ask one direct question: what English proof do you accept for this exact programme this year?
Common questions
Is B2 enough for university in Europe?
Sometimes yes, especially for some bachelor's programmes. But many master's programmes ask for C1 or an IELTS score around 6.5 or higher. Check the specific programme page.
Is IELTS 6.5 always enough?
No. Some programmes accept 6.5, some ask for more, and some also require a minimum score in each section. Always check the university's admissions page and the programme page.
Can I study in Europe if my previous degree was in English?
Possibly, but not always automatically. Some universities accept an English-medium certificate or transcript, while others still want a test score. The official admissions page will say what they accept.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents, and admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you and write first.
This can make it easier to hear from programmes that match your level and background.
Rules, fees and deadlines change. Check the university's own admissions page and the official immigration site of the country before you act on anything here.