UKVI English Proficiency

To meet the English language proficiency requirement for work-related visas in the UK, you must demonstrate a level of English equivalent to B1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This means you should be able to understand and use everyday English effectively in various work-related contexts.

There are two primary methods to prove your English language proficiency for a UK work-related visa:

• Take a Secure English Language Test (SELT): SELTs are tests approved by the UK Home Office for visa applications. These tests include options like IELTS for UKVI and Pearson PTE Academic UKVI.

• Meet an English language exemption: If you are from a country on the UK's list of exempt countries, possess a degree from an English-speaking university, or have worked in a professional role where English was the primary language of communication, you may be exempt from taking a SELT.

If you are applying for your visa from outside the UK:

• IELTS SELT Consortium

• LanguageCert

• Pearson

• PSI Services (UK) Ltd

If you are applying for your visa from inside the UK:

• IELTS SELT Consortium

• LanguageCert

• Pearson

• Trinity College London

For the following application routes, you will be required to take a comprehensive test assessing your reading, writing, speaking, and listening abilities:

• Health and Care Worker

• Skilled Worker

The specific English language proficiency level, known as the Common European Framework for Reference of Languages (CEFR) level, you are required to meet depends on the immigration route you are applying for. To ascertain the precise CEFR level applicable to your visa category, please refer to the detailed guidance provided for your specific immigration route.

SELT tests are available at approved test centres worldwide. You can access a comprehensive list of approved test centres on the UK government's official website.

• Find a Pearson Test Centre

• Find a IELTS SELT Consortium Test Centre

• Find a LanguageCert Test Centre

• Find a PSI Services (UK) Ltd Test Centre

SELT test costs vary depending on the selected test centre and the specific type of test you opt for. For budgeting purposes, you can plan to pay around £200 for the test but the exact amount varies based on your location.

SELT results remain valid for a duration of two years from the date of the test.

An acceptable score by UKVI is 4.0 or above, which corresponds to level B1 at the CEFR.

You have several options to prepare for a SELT:

• Enroll in a preparation course.

• Utilise online resources and practice materials.

• Consider one-on-one tutoring.

• Explore books and websites that offer valuable tips and guidance for SELT preparation.

The SELT exam follows a structured pattern, assessing proficiency in various aspects of English language communication. The examination is computer-based and spans a total duration of 2 hours and 52 minutes. Here is an overview of the exam format:

• Reading and Listening Sections: These sections consist of multiple-choice questions, where candidates are presented with three options to choose from. These questions gauge your reading comprehension and listening skills.

• Writing Section: In this part of the exam, candidates are provided with writing topics or prompts. They are required to respond to these prompts, demonstrating their writing proficiency.

This comprehensive examination structure is designed to evaluate your English language abilities effectively.

The exam is broken down as follows:

• Listening: 30 minutes with 26 Questions

• Reading and Writing: 2 hours and 10 minutes with 26 Questions and 2 tasks

• Speaking: 12 minutes split into 4 parts