IELTS Requirement for Dual Degree Programs Abroad
By Abhinav Jain, Founder & Director, Gateway International | Btech, MBA, Serial Entrepreneur | Study abroad consultants and AI in business specialist| 12 min read | ✓ Verified Expert
Introduction
If you’re an ambitious Indian student who dreams of earning two internationally recognized degrees in one shot, you must first learn the requirements for the IELTS Dual Degree Abroad. In 2025, the international universities are raising the English-proficiency requirements, especially for dual and double-major programs. This guide contains the latest IELTS band expectations, application strategies and expert insights. It’s designed to give you the confidence to unlock the world’s top academic Gateway’s 17 years of experience and more than 50,000 success stories, you’re in the right place to start your journey.
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Why Are IELTS Requirements for Dual Degree Abroad Programs So Important in 2025?
In 2025, universities all over the world are tightening English language requirements for IELTS dual degree abroad combined-course, and double-major admissions. Indian students must meet or exceed the IELTS dual degree abroad standards to have access to top-notch education, global networks, and post-study employment opportunities.
- Global Trend: In 2025, over 1.8 million Indians are expected to study abroad. See, dual degree programs are gaining popularity for their career and PR advantages. (ICEF Monitor, 2025).
- Indian Context: Combined or two-degree IELTS programs, which make up 31% of Indian applicants, are mainly driven by job market demand and the PR incentives in countries like Canada, the UK and Australia.
- Personal Impact: The IELTS score is the gateway to scholarships, internships and a career in the global economy.
| Country | IELTS Overall Band (Dual Degree) | Sectional Minimum | Top University/Competitive Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA | 6.5–7.5 | 6.0 | 7.0–7.5 |
| UK | 6.0–7.0 | 5.5 | 6.5–7.0+ |
| Canada | 6.5–7.0 | 6.0 | 7.0+ |
| Australia/NZ | 6.5–7.0 | 6.0 | 7.0+ |
| Ireland | 6.0–6.5 | 5.5–6.0 | 6.5+ |
| Singapore | 6.0–8.0 | 6.0+ | 7.0–8.0 |
🎯 Important: IELTS One Skill Retake (2025 Update)
If you miss the required band in one section, you can now retake that section within 60 days, making it easier to meet the IELTS dual degree abroad cut-offs and the combined IELTS.
Check Out: U. S. Student Visa Woes: 44% Fewer Indian Students Choose America — Here’s What’s Changing
What Are the 2025 IELTS Requirements for Dual Degree, Combined, and Double Major Programs?
The requirements for IELTS dual degree abroad in 2025 are set by each university, but generally follow these patterns:
- Minimum Overall Band: For most dual-degree, combined program, and double major IELTS admissions, the IELTS required band is 6.5.
- Sectional Minimums: Generally, IELTS is accepted at a minimum score of 6.0 for each band (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking).
- Top Universities: Ivy League, Russell Group and Group of Eight (in Australia) often expect a general average of 7 or 7.5, with no band less than 7.
- Program-Specific: If your dual degree involves two faculties (for example, business and engineering), you must meet the higher IELTS requirements.
- Conditional Offers: If you fall short, many universities offer pre-sessional or pathway programmes.
The requirements for IELTS dual degree abroad programmes will be found on the official university websites.
How Do IELTS Requirements Differ for Two-Degree, Combined, and Double Major Programs?
For IELTS dual degree abroad applicants, the requirements are generally the same as for single-degree applicants. But there are a few nuances:
- Two-degree IELTS: No need for a separate band unless otherwise stated, but higher selectivity for top.
- Combined program IELTS: May require you to reach the highest band score of all participating faculties.
- Double major IELTS band: If your major is in a competitive field (e.g. STEM), expect stricter English proficiency cutoffs.
Universities may require further interviews or written statements to determine your readiness for the academic rigor of a dual or combined degree.
What Is the Step-by-Step Process for Indian Students to Meet IELTS Dual Degree Abroad Requirements?
The IELTS Dual Degree abroad process is complex, but with a clear road map, Indian students can increase their chances of success.
- Research Programs: Find dual degree, combined degree or double major IELTS options in your target countries.
- Check Eligibility: Check the academic, age, and English language requirements for each university.
- Prepare for IELTS: For the top courses, aim for seven points overall and at least 6.5 points Use the official preparation resources and consider coaching.
- Register & Take IELTS: Early registration is recommended (minimum age 16, valid passport required).
- Apply to Universities: Submit your records and application before the deadline.
- Conditional Offers: If you don’t meet the band, you can enrol for pre-sessional English or preparatory courses.
- Visa Application: Use your IELTS result to apply for a student visa (mandatory for most countries).
Gateway International offers a free SOP (statement of purpose) generator and a free profile evaluation to help you.
Which Top Universities and Countries Offer Dual Degree Programs for Indian Students?
IELTS dual degree abroad landscape of 2025 is full of opportunities for Indian students. Here are a few of the most popular places of study.
- USA: The Ivy League, which includes Harvard, Princeton, Columbia, and Cornell, offers dual and combined degrees in science and business.
- UK: Oxford, Cambridge, UCL and the Russell Group of universities offer double-degree and double-major IELTS programs.
- Canada: At the University of Toronto, the University of British Columbia, and at McGill,
- Australia: UNSW and Monash University (members of the Group of Eight) offer flexible combinations of IELTS courses.
- Europe: Sciences Po in France, ETH in Switzerland, and the great German universities with their requirements.
Each university sets its own requirements for IELTS and dual degrees, so check the requirements before applying.
| University | Country | IELTS Band (Typical) | Dual/Combined Program Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Harvard University | USA | 7.0–7.5 | Engineering + Business |
| University of Cambridge | UK | 7.0 | Natural Sciences + Computer Science |
| University of Toronto | Canada | 6.5–7.0 | Double Major (Economics + Math) |
| University of Melbourne | Australia | 7.0 | Science + Commerce |
| ETH Zurich | Switzerland | 7.0 | Engineering + Data Science |
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What Are the Scholarships and Funding Options for IELTS Dual Degree Abroad?
Financing a dual degree abroad can be a challenge, but Indian students have access to a number of scholarships and financial aid.
- Merit Scholarships: The scholarship is awarded to students with high academic achievements and strong IELTS.
- Need-Based Grants: For students with a demonstrated financial need.
- Government Scholarships: In the United Kingdom the Chevening Scholarship, in Germany.
- Partner University Discounts: Many dual-degree partners offer reduced tuition fees for IELTS students.
- Education Loans: Indian banks and NBFCs offer specialized loans for IELTS dual degree abroad programs. Learn more about education loans.
Gateway International helps you find and apply for the best scholarships and other forms of financial aid, thus increasing your chances of success.
Riya Zainab
“I had the best agent and team guiding me every step of the way from shortlisting universities to submitting applications and securing my visa. They were incredibly hands-on throughout the process, especially Divya Israni, who went above and beyond to help me get into my first-choice university. I seriously couldn’t have asked for a more supportive and amazing team!”
What Are the Main Challenges and Benefits of Pursuing an IELTS Dual Degree Abroad?
To pursue a double degree abroad opens the door to a world career, but it brings with it special challenges and rewards.
Challenges
- High IELTS Band Requirement: Most two-degree IELTS programs need a 7.0+ IELTS score, which can be stressful.
- Time Management: A combined program IELTS path means balancing two majors, double coursework, and exams.
- Cost Factor: Studying a double major IELTS band program abroad can be more expensive due to extra tuition and living costs.
- Visa & Eligibility Issues: Meeting eligibility for both degrees and visa paperwork can be tricky.
Benefits
- Global Recognition: An IELTS dual degree abroad boosts career options in multiple countries.
- Skill Development: You gain expertise in two subjects under one study plan.
- Faster Career Growth: Employers value combined program IELTS qualifications for diverse knowledge.
- Networking Advantage: Connect with global peers and build stronger professional links across two disciplines.
Gateway International provides end-to-end support from IELTS preparation to post-arrival mentoring, helping you overcome every obstacle.
Arihant Jain
“Huge thanks to the amazing team for my French student visa! Hashmeet Ma’am was brilliant with the overall guidance and admission. Simran Ma’am was a lifesaver with the perfect visa documentation, making VFS a breeze. And Zainab Ma’am totally prepped me for my interviews with Campus France and EPITA. Thanks to their collective expertise, I got my visa approved incredibly fast, in just a few days! Highly recommend their service for anyone applying to France!”
How Gateway International Helps You Succeed with IELTS Dual Degree Abroad
Gateway’s 17+ years of experience and 50,000+ successful placements will make your IELTS dual degree abroad a smooth journey:
Step-by-Step Consultancy Support
- Profile Evaluation & Personalization: In-depth assessment to match you with the best two-degree IELTS and combined IELTS options.
- Country & Course Selection: A professional advice to find the right destination and program for you.
- Application & Visa Guidance: Support for documentation, SOPs and visa interviews for dual-degree programmes.
- Scholarship & Funding Support: Help in identifying and applying for scholarships and loans.
- Pre-Departure & Post-Arrival Support: Orientation, accommodation and continuous guidance for a smooth transition.
Success Story Spotlight
A student from Bombay, who was aiming for a double IELTS band in business and artificial intelligence, struggled with the writing section of the test. Honestly, gateway’s targeted coaching and profile review helped her improve her score from a 6.5 to a 7.5. She got admission to a I mean, top UK university and received a 30% scholarship. Today, she’s thriving in her dual degree program and credits the personal approach of the Gateway staff for her.
Student Queries & Direct Q&A
Q1: What is the minimum IELTS band required for dual degree programs abroad?
Most universities require an IELTS band of 6.5-7.5 for a dual degree abroad program, with no individual band below 6.0. Top universities and competitive majors expect scores of 7.0.
Q2: Do two-degree IELTS or combined program IELTS pathways have different requirements?
Generally, the requirements are the same as for single-degree programs. But if your major is in two faculties, you must meet the requirements of the higher one.
Q3: Can I apply if my IELTS score is slightly below the cutoff?
Many universities offer conditional admission or pre-sessional English courses for those who are just below the required level. The new IELTS One-Skill Retake policy helps improve the individual band scores.
Q4: Are scholarships available for double major IELTS band students?
Yes, there are many merit- and need-based scholarships for the dual-degree students. Strong IELTS scores (7.0+) will increase your chances.
Q5: Is IELTS mandatory for all dual degree programs?
IELTS is the most widely accepted English language proficiency test for admission to double major, combined program, or joint degree programmes. Some universities accept TOEFL or Duolingo, but for visas IELTS is preferred.
Q6: Can I retake just one IELTS section if I miss the band?
Yes, the IELTS One-Skill-Retake policy allows you to retake any one of the four parts of the test within a 60-day period, making it easier to reach the required score.
Q7: How can Gateway International help me with my application?
Gateway International provides a personal counseling, IELTS preparation, scholarship guidance, and end-to-end support for the success of the IELTS and dual degree abroad admission.
Conclusion
In 2025, a place in IELTS dual degree abroad is a transforming step for Indian students. You’ll have access to the best global opportunities, scholarships and world-class education by understanding the IELTS requirements, preparing strategically and relying on the expertise of Gateway International’s team. Remember that the right preparation today means success tomorrow.
Explore IELTS Dual Degree Requirements
Get the latest insights on the minimum IELTS scores needed for dual degree programs in 2025.
About the Author
By Abhinav Jain, Founder & Director, Gateway International | Btech, MBA, Serial Entrepreneur | Study abroad consultants and AI in business specialist| 12 min read | ✓ Verified Expert
Frequently Asked Questions
For dual degree programs abroad, the general IELTS requirement in 2025 ranges from 6.0 to 7.5, with exact demands varying by institution.
Yes, as of 2025, you can retake specific sections of the IELTS within 60 days to meet university requirements.
The IELTS One-Skill Retake policy allows you to retake only the section you did not pass initially, within 60 days, aiming to help you meet your required scores more flexibly.
Yes, there are merit-based and need-based scholarships as well as partner university discounts and government scholarships like the Chevening Scholarship.
Gateway International provides counseling, application support, visa guidance, and pre-departure orientation to help you succeed in securing a dual degree abroad.
Students should thoroughly research program requirements, prepare for IELTS using official resources, and consider expert coaching where necessary.
Dual degree programs offer global exposure, extensive professional networks, enhanced employability, and eligibility for various scholarships.
