You Took the IELTS… Now What?
If you’ve just completed the IELTS exam, congratulations. It’s a major milestone in your study abroad journey.
But once the test is done and the scores are in, the next question arises:
“Now what?”
The IELTS is just the beginning. To turn your dreams of studying abroad into reality, you need to navigate a much larger process—one that involves choosing the right country, preparing documentation, applying to universities, handling finances, securing a visa, and finally planning your travel.
In this comprehensive guide, we break down the entire post-IELTS study abroad process into clear, actionable steps, so you don’t miss a thing on your path to international education.
Step 1: Understand What Your IELTS Score Means
Once you receive your Test Report Form (TRF), it will show:
- Listening score
- Reading score
- Writing score
- Speaking score
- Overall Band Score (average of all four)
Most universities and colleges have minimum score requirements that vary by country and by program.
IELTS Band Requirements by Country (2025)
| Country | Minimum Band Requirements | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Canada | 6.5 overall, no band less than 6.0 | Some diploma programs accept 6.0 |
| UK | 6.5 overall, some programs accept 5.5 | Foundation courses often accept lower bands |
| Australia | 6.0 to 6.5 overall | Specific fields like nursing require 7.0+ |
| New Zealand | 6.0 overall | Diploma courses may accept 5.5 |
| Germany | 6.0 to 6.5 | Some public universities accept MOI (Medium of Instruction) instead |
| Ireland | 6.0 to 6.5 | Check individual college requirements |
| USA | 6.5 to 7.0 | IELTS accepted by some institutions; TOEFL is more common |
Be sure to verify the exact requirements on each university’s website.
Step 2: Choose Your Destination and Intake
Before you begin applying, you need to select the country, university, and intake that best align with your goals.
Consider the Following:
- Preferred course or career path
- Budget for tuition and living expenses
- Work opportunities post-study
- Immigration or permanent residency goals
- Language and cultural comfort
- Presence of friends or family abroad
Popular Intakes for 2025–2026
| Country | Major Intakes | Suggested Application Start |
|---|---|---|
| Canada | Fall (Sept), Winter (Jan), Summer (May) | Start by January 2025 |
| UK | Fall (Sept/Oct), Spring (Jan) | Begin by November 2024 |
| Australia | February, July, November | Start at least 6 months prior |
| Germany | Winter (October), Summer (April) | Start by January 2025 |
| USA | Fall (August), Spring (January) | Begin October 2024 for Fall |
Step 3: Prepare Application Documents
The next step is to compile your application documents. A strong application includes more than just marks. Universities consider your profile, motivation, background, and documentation.
Academic Documents
- Class 10 and 12 mark sheets
- Bachelor’s degree transcripts (for postgraduate courses)
- Backlog summary (if applicable)
- Medium of Instruction (for Germany)
Identity and Legal Documents
- Valid passport
- Passport-size photos
- Birth certificate (for some countries)
Supporting Documents
- Statement of Purpose (SOP): An essay explaining your academic and career goals, why you chose the course and university, and how it fits into your future plans.
- Letters of Recommendation (LORs): Written by professors or employers attesting to your skills, work ethic, and academic potential.
- Resume or CV: Highlight education, internships, achievements, certifications.
- Portfolio: Required for fields like design, architecture, and fine arts.
Make sure these documents are error-free, up to date, and formatted professionally. If you need help in preparing these documents you may contact us.
Step 4: Apply to Universities
You can apply directly through the university website or use centralized portals. Touch4Career can also help you find a good agency who will take care of everything you need. If you need any help or free counselling you may write to us.
Application Channels
- Direct Application: Most universities accept direct submissions online.
- Country-Specific Portals:
- UCAS for UK universities
- UniAssist for German public universities
- ApplyBoard or ApplyAlberta for Canada
Most universities charge application fees ranging from ₹2,000 to ₹7,000. Some offer free applications during promotional windows or via waivers.
How Many Universities Should You Apply To?
- 1 to 2 dream universities (slightly above your profile)
- 2 to 3 safe options (where you meet all criteria)
- 1 backup option (lower cut-offs or more lenient programs)
Always track application status, deadlines, and document submissions.
Step 5: Explore Scholarships and Financial Aid
Studying abroad is expensive. Scholarships can significantly ease the financial burden.
Types of Scholarships
- Merit-based scholarships
- Need-based scholarships
- Government-funded (country-specific)
- Program-specific or department scholarships
- Private foundations or NGOs
Popular Scholarships
- Commonwealth Scholarship – UK
- Chevening Scholarship – UK
- DAAD – Germany
- Australia Awards – Australia
- Ontario Graduate Scholarship – Canada
- Erasmus+ – Europe
Start early. Many scholarships require essays, academic references, and additional applications, and some close as early as 9 to 12 months before the intake begins.
Step 6: Accept Offer and Secure Admission
If your application is successful, the university will send either:
- A Conditional Offer: You’re accepted, but need to submit pending documents (e.g., final transcripts).
- An Unconditional Offer: You’re fully admitted and can move to the next step.
Next Actions
- Accept the offer online
- Pay the initial deposit (ranges from $500 to $10,000 depending on the university)
- Receive your Letter of Acceptance (LOA) or Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) (UK only)
These documents are required for visa application.
Step 7: Apply for Your Student Visa
This is one of the most important steps. Each country has its own rules, document list, and timelines.
Common Documents Required
- Offer letter or CAS/LOA
- Passport
- IELTS TRF
- Proof of funds (bank statements, GIC, education loan approval)
- Tuition fee payment receipt
- Visa application form
- Medical certificate (if required)
- Visa SOP or personal statement
- Police Clearance Certificate (for some countries)
Country-Specific Highlights
- Canada: Apply under SDS (Student Direct Stream) for faster processing. Show GIC of $10,000 CAD and full tuition fee payment.
- UK: Must show funds for tuition and 9 months living costs. CAS needed before applying.
- Australia: Proof of sufficient funds for tuition and living, plus Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
- Germany: Requires a Blocked Account with approx. €11,208 and German health insurance.
Processing time ranges from 2 to 8 weeks, depending on the country.
Step 8: Prepare for Travel and Arrival
After getting your visa, start preparing for your move abroad.
Pre-Departure Checklist
- Book flight tickets
- Arrange accommodation (temporary or permanent)
- Join student forums or WhatsApp groups
- Buy international travel insurance
- Print multiple copies of important documents
- Carry local currency for initial expenses
- Download offline maps and transit apps
- Carry a travel folder with:
- Offer letter, visa approval
- Passport and ticket
- Academic documents
- Emergency contact info
Once you land, complete initial formalities like setting up a bank account, getting a local SIM, and registering with university authorities.
Final Thoughts
The journey from IELTS to a foreign university seat is long, but entirely achievable with the right planning and timely action.
Avoid procrastination. Thousands of students miss out on intakes or scholarships simply because they waited too long to act after their IELTS exam.
Start now, build a timeline, track your progress — and don’t hesitate to ask for help.
Touch4Career is here to support your international journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is 6.0 band enough to study abroad?
Yes, for many diploma programs or foundation courses. But universities typically expect 6.5 or higher.
Q: Can I apply to multiple countries at once?
Absolutely. Many students apply to Canada and UK or Australia simultaneously to increase their chances.
Q: Do I need an agent to apply abroad?
Many students apply directly. However, trusted education consultants can help simplify the process.
Q: What if I scored 5.5 in one section?
Some programs or countries will still accept you (UK, NZ, some Canadian colleges). You may also consider re-taking the IELTS.
Related Articles on Touch4Career
- Free Full IELTS Mock Tests with Instant Score
- How to Write a Perfect SOP for Your Study Abroad Application
- Scholarships for Indian Students Studying Abroad in 2025
- IELTS Preparation Roadmap – From Beginner to Band 8