MOI Accepted Universities in UK 2025 Intake
Medium of Instruction or MoI certificate is an official record verifying the language proficiency of an individual who has completed their education in a specific language. Educational institutions typically issue it, which is often required for international students seeking admission to universities abroad, applying for work permits, or pursuing permanent residency in foreign countries.
For UK student visas, the MOI certificate serves as crucial evidence, demonstrating the student’s English proficiency and suitability for their chosen course of study. So, knowing which UK universities consider MoI instead of standardized English proficiency tests is crucial. Let’s check out the MOI accepted universities in UK.
UK Study Options Without IELTS: The Role of MOI
Why Choose MOI Over IELTS for UK Universities?
The MOI certificate can be an alternative to IELTS, provided it meets specific criteria, and the university accepts it as an acceptable form of English language proficiency evidence.
It demonstrates that the student has been instructed in English throughout their educational journey, indicating their ability to comprehend academic materials, participate in classroom discussions, and engage with the broader academic community in English.
MOI Requirements for UK University Admissions
To utilize the MOI certificate as an alternative to IELTS, students must meet specific criteria set forth by the UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI) authorities. These conditions typically involve:
- Completion of academic studies in English: The student must have completed their secondary or higher education in an institution where English was the primary language of instruction.
- Minimum English language proficiency: The UKVI must recognize the institution where the student studied as providing a high standard of English language education.
- Duration of English-medium studies: The duration of the student’s studies in English must be sufficient to demonstrate their proficiency in the language.
- Recent English-medium studies: The completion of English-medium studies should be relatively recent, typically within the past two to five years.
Top UK Universities That Accept MOI as IELTS Alternative
Many UK universities recognize the MOI certificate as an alternative to IELTS, offering students more flexibility in demonstrating their English language proficiency. These universities often have specific requirements and conditions for accepting the MOI certificate, which students should carefully review before applying. Here’s a MOI accepted university list in the UK:
- University of Warwick
- Birmingham City University
- Robert Gordon University
- University of Bristol
- Aston University
- University of Greenwich
- University of Central Lancashire

MOI Accepted Universities in UK 2025
Comprehensive list of MOI accepting universities in the UK
Many universities in the UK require standardized English language tests like IELTS or TOEFL, and many institutions also accept the Medium of Instruction certificate as an alternative. Here’s a comprehensive list of universities in the UK that accept MOI as an alternative to IELTS for international students in 2025:
Public Universities:
- University of South Wales
- University of Brighton
- University of Suffolk
- University of Hertfordshire
- University of Portsmouth
- University of Greenwich
- Northumbria University
- University of Wolverhampton
- University of West London
- University of Bedfordshire
- London Metropolitan University
- University of Central Lancashire
- University of Bolton
- University of Salford
- Edge Hill University
- Liverpool Hope University
- Leeds Beckett University
- Nottingham Trent University
- Sheffield Hallam University
- Teesside University
- Birmingham City University
- Coventry University
- Solent University
- University of East Anglia
- University of Essex
- University of Kent
- University of Reading
- University of Southampton
- University of Sussex
- University of York
- University of Bristol
- Aston University
- University of Warwick
- Robert Gordon University
- University of Central Lancashire
- University of Bristol
- University of East Anglia
- University of Essex
- University of Kent
- University of Reading
- University of Southampton
- University of Sussex
- University of York
- University of Birmingham
- University of Leeds
- University of Leicester
- University of Liverpool
- University of Nottingham
- University of Glasgow
- University of Aberdeen
- University of Dundee
- University of Stirling
- Cardiff University
- Swansea University
- University of Manchester
- University of Edinburgh
- Queen’s University Belfast
- University of Oxford
- University of Cambridge
- Imperial College London
- King’s College London
- University College London
Private Universities:
- University of Roehampton
- Regent’s University London
- Queen Mary University of London
- University for the Creative Arts
- University of Buckingham
- BPP University
- St Mary’s University
- University of Westminster
- Richmond, The American International University in London
- Arden University
- Glasgow Caledonian University, London Campus
- University of Law
- GSM London
- Norwich University of the Arts
- INTO Manchester
- INTO University of Exeter
- INTO University of East Anglia
- INTO University of Gloucestershire
- INTO City, University of London
- Kaplan International College London
- St George’s, University of London
- Heriot-Watt University, London Campus
- Mont Rose College of Management and Sciences
- London School of Business and Finance
- Ulster University, London Campus
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying to MOI-Accepting Universities in the UK
The application process for UK MOI-accepted universities generally follows similar steps to those for universities that require IELTS. However, specific requirements or guidelines may exist for submitting the MoI certificate. You must review the application requirements for each university you’re interested in.
Here’s a general step-by-step application process:
- Step 1: Research and select universities: Carefully research and select universities that accept MoI as an alternative to IELTS. Check the specific MoI requirements and eligibility criteria for each university.
- Step 2: Prepare application materials: Gather all the necessary application documents, including all your academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
- Step 3: Complete the application form: Fill out the online application form of your chosen university correctly and provide all required information.
- Step 4: Submit the MoI certificate: Upload a scanned copy of your MoI certificate along other supporting documents.
- Step 5: Pay application fees: Finally, pay the application fees as instructed by the university. Then, monitor your application status and wait for the university’s decision.
Advantages of Choosing MOI-Accepting UK Universities
Studying at a UK university that accepts MOI offers several advantages:
- No IELTS requirement: Avoid the hassle and expense of taking the IELTS test.
- Direct application: Apply directly to the university without intermediaries.
- Focus on academic preparation: Dedicate more time to preparing for your chosen course of study.
- Demonstrate English proficiency: Showcase your English language skills through your MoI certificate.
- Access to quality education: Pursue higher education at prestigious UK universities.
- Enriching international experience: Immerse yourself in a vibrant multicultural learning environment.

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your MOI Certificate
Steps and documents required for obtaining MOI certificate
The process of obtaining a Medium of Instruction (MoI) certificate involves the following steps:
- Contact your educational institution: Reach out to the registrar’s office or academic records department where you completed your studies.
- Request an MoI certificate: Submit a formal request for an MoI certificate, specifying the course or program you studied and the language of instruction.
- Provide necessary documents: Attach copies of the required documents, such as your academic transcripts, degree certificate, and valid identification document, to support your request.
- Pay application fees: Pay the applicable fees for processing and issuing the MoI certificate.
- Receive the MoI certificate: Once the processing is complete, you will receive the official MoI certificate, either in hard copy or electronic format.
Also Read:
- PTE Accepted Universities in UK
- Duolingo Accepted Universities in USA
- Duolingo Accepted Universities In Canada
- Duolingo Accepted Universities in the UK
Institutions authorized to issue MOI certificates
The following institutions are typically authorized to issue MoI certificates:
- Secondary schools and higher education institutions: The institution where you completed your studies is typically authorized to issue an MoI certificate for that specific program or course.
- Government education ministries or departments: In some countries, the relevant government ministry or department responsible for education may be authorized to issue MoI certificates.
- Accredited language assessment organizations: Some accredited language assessment organizations may also be authorized to issue MoI certificates, particularly for programs or courses taught in a specific language other than the country’s native language.

Using Your MOI Certificate for a UK Student Visa
Importance of MOI in the UK student visa application process
The Medium of Instruction certificate plays a crucial role in the UK student visa application process as an alternative to standardized English language tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
The MoI certificate is essential for students who have completed their secondary or higher education in English-medium institutions. It provides direct evidence of their English language exposure and competence.
It demonstrates to the UK Visa and Immigration authorities that you have the necessary English language proficiency to pursue your chosen course in a UK university.
How to use MOI certificate for UK student visa application
- Obtain the MOI certificate: Request an MoI certificate from the institution where you completed your studies. The certificate should clearly state that the language of instruction for your program or course is English.
- Scan the MOI certificate: Create a scanned copy of your MOI certificate, ensuring it is clear and legible.
- Upload MOI certificate: During the UK student visa application process, you will be asked to upload scanned copies of your supporting documents, including the MoI certificate.
- Provide additional English language evidence: While the MOI certificate indicates English proficiency, some universities may require additional evidence, such as IELTS or TOEFL scores.
- Meet other visa requirements: Ensure you fulfil all UK student visa requirements, including financial support, academic qualifications, and passport validity.
Common Questions About MOI for UK Universities
What is the meaning of MOI?
MOI stands for Medium of Instruction. It refers to the language in which your courses were taught. MOI is often used to prove English proficiency for university admissions, especially in English-speaking countries like the UK.
What is an MOI certificate?
An MOI (Medium of Instruction) certificate is an official document from your previous educational institution stating that your courses were taught in English. It’s often used as proof of English proficiency for university admissions abroad.
How to get a Medium of Instruction certificate?
To get an MOI certificate, you’ll need to request it from your previous school, college, or university. Contact the administration or academic office to issue this document, usually on official letterhead.
What is MOI for UK student visa?
MOI (Medium of Instruction) is a certificate some UK universities accept as proof that your previous education was conducted in English. It can help in the visa application process if the university you’re applying to accepts it in place of other language tests.
Can I get a UK student visa with MOI?
Yes, some UK universities accept the Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate as proof of English proficiency. However, each university has different requirements, so it’s best to check with the institution you’re applying to.
Is MOI accepted in UK universities?
Yes, many UK universities accept an MOI certificate as proof of English proficiency, especially for students from non-English speaking countries. However, not all institutions accept it, so always confirm with your university’s admission office.
Which universities accept MOI in the UK?
Several UK universities, including the University of Greenwich, the University of Bedfordshire, and Middlesex University, accept MOI. However, acceptance policies vary by institution, so it’s essential to check with each university directly to confirm if they accept MOI for English proficiency.
What are the benefits of using an MOI for UK study?
An MOI certificate can save you from taking standardized English tests like IELTS. It simplifies the application process and proves your English proficiency if your previous education was in English.
Do all UK universities accept MOI instead of IELTS?
No, not all UK universities accept an MOI (Medium of Instruction) certificate instead of IELTS. Acceptance varies by institution and program. Some universities, like the University of South Wales and the University of Portsmouth, accept MOI under certain conditions. In contrast, others may require standardized English tests like IELTS or TOEFL, regardless of MOI.
Conclusion
In conclusion, MOI Accepted Universities in UK offer international students a flexible pathway to study without needing to take standardized English tests like IELTS. This approach is especially beneficial for students whose previous education was conducted in English. Universities such as the University of South Wales, the University of Hertfordshire, and the University of Portsmouth have been more receptive to accepting MOI certificates, allowing applicants to bypass additional language requirements and simplifying the admissions process.
However, not all universities follow the same guidelines. Prospective students must check each institution’s specific requirements before applying, as some universities may still require additional proof of English proficiency, depending on the program or academic focus.