IELTS Score Requirement for USA to Work & Get PR in 2024

Kasturika Samanta

4 min read

Updated On Sep 10, 2024

This blog discusses the minimum IELTS score requirements for various pathways to work and achieve PR in the USA. Generally, a score of 6.5-7.0 is needed, with specific requirements varying by visa type and profession.

IELTS Score Requirement for USA Work Visa

Minimum IELTS score for USA Work Visa through Different Pathways

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Demonstrating English language proficiency by achieving the minimum IELTS score for USA work visa is one of the critical factors for obtaining permanent residence in the country. As a result, IELTS band score plays an important role in not only securing different visa types but also opens a whole of opportunities for better jobs and residence.

In this blog, we will guide you through the minimum IELTS score requirements for different pathways to work and achieve PR in the USA.

Minimum IELTS score for USA Work Visa through Different Pathways

There are three major pathways to work and get PR in the USA: obtaining a green card via a study visa, work visa, or as a nurse. Basically, individuals need an overall IELTS score of 6.5 and 7.0 band score in each section of the IELTS exam to get a US visa.

However, each pathway has different requirements for the minimum IELTS score. So, let’s have a look at them.

Work and Obtain a Green Card in the USA with a Study Visa

The F1 Visa, or the USA Study Visa, is one of the most common pathways to obtain permanent residency in the United States. It allows an individual to enter the country as a full-time student at an accredited college, university, or other academic institution or in a language training program.

To secure an F-1 visa, candidates need to demonstrate their English proficiency level suitable for entry into an academic program. The minimum IELTS score required typically ranges between 6.0 - 6.5, depending on the university and the level of study (undergraduate or postgraduate).

For a better understanding of the minimum IELTS score for USA study visa and admission at top US universities, check out the table below.

University	QS World University Rankings 2025	Overall IELTS requirement for Undergraduate Programmes	Overall IELTS requirement for Postgraduate Programmes
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)	1	7.0	7.0
Harvard University	4	7.0	7.0
Stanford University	6	7.0	7.0
California Institute of Technology (Caltech)	10	7.0	7.0
University of Pennsylvania	11	7.0	7.0
University of California, Berkeley (UCB)	12	6.5	7.0
Cornell University	16	7.5	7.0
University of Chicago	21	7.0	7.0
Princeton University	22	8.0	8.0
Yale University	23	7.0	7.0
Johns Hopkins University	=32	7.0	7.0
Columbia University	=34	7.5	7.5
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)	42	7.0	7.0
New York University	43	7.5	7.5
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor	44	7.0	6.5

After graduating, F-1 students can apply for an Employment-Based Green Card through one of the following immigrant visa categories:

EB-1 (First Preference): For individuals with extraordinary abilities.
EB-2 (Second Preference): For professionals with advanced degrees or exceptional abilities, typically requiring employer sponsorship.
EB-3 (Third Preference): For skilled workers, professionals, and other workers, also requiring employer sponsorship.

The transition from an F-1 visa to an employment-based green card usually involves obtaining a job offer and employer sponsorship, which qualifies candidates to file a green card application.

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Work and Obtain a Green Card in the USA with a Work Visa

There is no specific requirement of IELTS America or need an IELTS certification or specific English language requirements to apply for a green card directly if individuals are planning to work in the United States. However, you will still need to apply for a temporary work visa based on the type of work you intend to do.

Common Work Visa Types and their IELTS Requirements

Although requirements of the IELTS score for USA Work Visa mentioned below are not mandatory, let us get an idea of the band score that an employer might typically ask.

Visa Type	Purpose	IELTS Requirement
H-1B Visa	For specialty occupations requiring a bachelor’s degree or higher.	6.5 - 7.0
H-1B1 Treaty-Based Visa	For Singaporean and Chilean citizens in specialty occupations.	6.5 - 7.0
H-3 Visa	For trainees or special education visitors.	6.5
O Visa (Extraordinary Ability)	For individuals with extraordinary ability in specific fields.	6.5 - 7.5
P Visa (Athletes, Artists, Entertainers)	For athletes, entertainers, and artists.	6.0 - 7.0
Q Visa (Cultural Exchange)	For participants in cultural exchange programs.	6.0 - 7.0

Temporary visa holders residing in the U.S. may be able to adjust their status from a work visa to a green card. This process usually involves employer sponsorship, enabling you to transition from a temporary worker to a lawful permanent resident.

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Work and Obtain a Green Card in the USA as a Nurse

A career in nursing in the United States can be very lucrative and lead to a faster green card application process due to the high demand for healthcare professionals.

To work as a nurse in the United States, internationally educated nurses must complete a screening program to obtain a VisaScreen certificate, which includes an English language requirement. Nurses need to take the IELTS Academic test and achieve an overall score of 6.5 with at least 7 band score in IELTS Speaking.

Once they have verified the credentials, passed the national exam, and obtained a registered nurse license and work visa, they can apply for a green card. Nurses often get their applications processed faster than other jobs because there's a huge demand for healthcare in the U.S.

While the U.S. does not always mandate IELTS scores for all visa categories, possessing strong English language skills can significantly improve the chances of success in securing both work opportunities and permanent residency. In the end, whether a person is planning to pursue a U.S. study visa, a work visa, or a career in nursing, achieving a high score in IELTS for migration should be a key part of their immigration strategy.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What IELTS score is required for USA work permit?

Since English language proficiency is not a prerequisite for the majority of U.S. work visas, such as the H-1B or L-1, the United States does not have a set IELTS score requirement for work permits. However, many employers prefer candidates with strong English skills, typically demonstrated by an IELTS score of 6.5 to 7.0.

Can I go to USA with 5.5 IELTS?

While it might be possible to secure a visa for non-academic purposes with a 5.5 score, you may face challenges in finding a job or being accepted into a university program. Most institutions and employers prefer a minimum score of 6.0 or higher.

Can I work in US without IELTS?

Yes, you can work in the USA without an IELTS score. Many U.S. work visas, such as the H-1B, L-1, and O-1, do not have a mandatory IELTS requirement. However, some employers may require proof of English proficiency.

Is IELTS required for a USA job?

While a few employers may want an IELTS score to gauge your English proficiency, many employers do not. So, it is better to confirm with the employer about the IELTS score that they require.

What are the alternatives to IELTS for proving English proficiency for U.S. work visas?

Since demonstrating your English proficiency is the main criteria, you can take the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), PTE (Pearson Test of English), and the Duolingo English Test as alternatives to IELTS. However, it is best to check if there are any specific requirements of the employer.

Is the IELTS Academic or General Training required for U.S. work visas?

IELTS General Training evaluates the kind of everyday, practical English that is required in social and professional settings, hence it is generally more applicable for work visas. However, IELTS Academic may be preferred for some professional companies, especially in the healthcare and education sectors. So, when applying for a job or a visa, make sure to review the precise requirements.