In a significant step towards advancing Qatar’s global education goals, over 50 academic leaders from top universities, accreditation bodies and international institutions convened for the Forum for IELTS Recognising Organisations, co-hosted by the British Council and the Ministry of Education and Higher Education Qatar. Held at the Ministry’s headquarters in Doha, the high-level dialogue explored the critical role of English language assessment, particularly IELTS, in student mobility, academic preparedness and national education transformation.
This strategic forum took place on Monday, 12 May 2025, brought together key decision-makers who use IELTS for undergraduate and postgraduate admissions, professional accreditation and international education pathways.
Dr Waseem Kotoub, Country Director, British Council Qatar, said: ‘IELTS continues to be more than just a test. It is a bridge to opportunity, enabling young people to succeed in education and employment across borders. This forum is part of our deep commitment to Qatar’s vision of a knowledge economy driven by quality, innovation, and global connection.’
New Global Study Unveiled: Institutions Seek Clarity on English Test Choices
The keynote address by Stephen Carey, Global Head of Relationship Management, IELTS (British Council), unveiled findings from a new international study conducted with the University of Dundee, Cambridge University Press & Assessment and the University of Cambridge.
Key findings include:
- 64% of institutions expanded test acceptance during the COVID-19 pandemic, but over half have since narrowed their criteria.
- Fewer than 42% of academics say they have reliable information to confidently select which English tests to accept.
‘These findings speak to the need for stronger partnerships between test providers and institutions. IELTS is not only a trusted measure of English proficiency, but also a vital support system for institutions and students navigating global education,’ said Stephen Carey.
Local Institutions Lead the Way: Quotes from Education Leaders
The forum spotlighted presentations from prominent Qatari institutions sharing best practices and policy insights:
‘English proficiency remains central to success in higher education. At Qatar University, we value IELTS as a benchmark that supports academic readiness, particularly in STEM and postgraduate programmes,’ said Dr. Saba Mansour A Qadhi, Dean of General Studies, Qatar University.
‘Our work at the Ministry continues to prioritise international standards. IELTS recognition enables Qatari students to study globally while also attracting high-calibre learners to Qatar,’ stated Ms. Fatima Al-Obaidli, Assistant Director, Ministry of Education and Higher Education.
‘As a transnational institution, we rely on IELTS to maintain academic quality and prepare students for careers in a competitive, English-speaking world,’ said Dr. Dimitrios Diamantis, Vice President for Academic Affairs, City University Qatar in partnership with Ulster University.
Panel: Aligning English Testing with Qatar National Vision 2030
The event concluded with a dynamic panel moderated by Simon Green, Director of Exams (UAE, Qatar, Oman), British Council, on transformational shifts in Qatar’s higher education landscape. Topics included international student flows, expansion of STEM and digital learning, employability and international academic partnerships. The panel featured voices from both local and global organisations, all aligned on the need for rigorous, equitable and inclusive English testing policies.