Study in Cyprus: Admissions

Language Tests for Cyprus University Admissions

A comprehensive guide to language proficiency requirements, accepted tests, and preparation resources for applying to universities in Cyprus.

Overview of English Language Requirements for Cyprus Universities

Most English-taught programmes in the Republic of Cyprus ask students from India and Pakistan for an English test, such as IELTS or TOEFL. A recognised test is also needed for the entry permit, the paper that lets you enter Cyprus to study.

Who Needs Language Testing?

Non-EU students applying for the entry permit to study in Cyprus.
Students on English-taught programmes who did not study in English at school or in a degree.

Common Exemptions

At European University Cyprus (EUC), a school leaving certificate or bachelor's degree taught in English can count as proof.
At the University of Nicosia (UNIC), a master's applicant whose first degree was taught in English meets the English rule.

Important Considerations

A placement test is not enough for the entry permit

EUC and UNIC run placement tests, but non-EU students (from outside the European Union) need a recognised English test for the entry permit.

Test Acceptance by University Type

University of Nicosia (UNIC)

Bachelor's: IELTS 6 or TOEFL iBT 72. Master's: IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL iBT 79.

European University Cyprus (EUC)

Level B2 or above on the European scale (CEFR; B1 and B2 are middle levels, C1 is a high level). Master's: IELTS Academic 6.5.

Entry permit rule

Bachelor's: at least B1 to B2. Master's: at least B2 to C1. These are CEFR levels.

TOEFL iBT

UNIC asks for these TOEFL iBT scores for its English-taught programmes.

Score Requirements for Cyprus Universities

University Tier	Undergraduate	Graduate
University of Nicosia (UNIC)	72 and above	79 and above

These are general ranges. Always check the specific requirements of each institution and program.

Official Website & Registration

Visit the official ETS website to register for the TOEFL exam, view dates, and find testing centers.Visit TOEFL Site

IELTS

IELTS is accepted by universities in Cyprus. Check the score for your own programme.

Cyprus University Requirements

Typical Minimum Requirements

UNIC bachelor's

6 and above

e.g., University of Nicosia

UNIC master's

6.5 and above

e.g., University of Nicosia

EUC master's

IELTS Academic 6.5 or above

e.g., European University Cyprus

Special Considerations

• Graduate programs may require higher scores
• Some schools require minimum scores in each section
• English-focused majors often have higher requirements

Official Website & Registration

Visit the official IELTS website to register for the exam, find test centers, and access preparation materials.Visit IELTS Site

Scores by University

Minimum scores for English-taught programmes in 2026-27.

University Category	TOEFL iBT	IELTS Academic
UNIC bachelor's e.g., University of Nicosia	72	6
UNIC master's e.g., University of Nicosia	79	6.5
EUC master's e.g., European University Cyprus	-	6.5

Score Requirements Variations

These are general ranges. Individual universities may have different requirements, and some programs (especially in areas requiring high communication skills like business, education, or healthcare) often require higher scores than the university minimum.

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Frequently Asked Questions