IELTS for UKVI
What is IELTS for UKVI, and Why is it Required?
IELTS for UKVI' is an officially approved English Language Test recognised by the UK government. It allows applicants to demonstrate their proficiency in English while applying for a UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI). IELTS is reappointed as a language test trusted by the UK government for visas.
You can read about this in detail here: IELTS for UK Reappointed by the UK government.
If you are planning to study, work or move to the UK, you need to appear for IELTS for UKVI. Universities, colleges, and professional bodies will only accept IELTS for UKVI scores. Regular IELTS will not be considered.
Various visa categories require applicants to have an English language qualification from the list of Secure English Language Tests (SELT tests) approved by the UK Home Office.
What are the Different IELTS Tests for the UK?
For UKVI, three types of IELTS test are available: Academic, General training and Life Skills. Each of these is discussed below:
IELTS Academic | This test is for individuals who wish to study at Undergraduate or Postgraduate levels and also for those who want a professional registration in the UK. |
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IELTS General Training | This is for individuals who want to migrate to the UK under certain visa categories and also for those who want to study for a course below the degree level. |
IELTS Life Skills A1 | This test is for those who want to apply for “family of settled person” visas. |
IELTS Life Skills A2 | This test is for those individuals who want to apply for an extension to family or spouse visas. |
IELTS Life Skills B1 | This test is for individuals who want an indefinite leave to remain or citizenship. |
While there is no change in the content, format or level of difficulty and scoring, IELTS for UKVI simply follows certain extra security protocols to ensure the authenticity of the test taker. Also, your Test Report Form (TRF) may look slightly different from the regular IELTS one.
Candidates applying for the Tier 4 Student visa must meet the language requirement set by their university or college; others can use this table as a guide to assess the score needed to qualify:
Visa description | Minimum CEFR level required | Skills | IELTS test and the minimum score required overall and in each skill |
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Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) visa | B1 | Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening | IELTS for UKVI – 4.0 overall, and in each of the four skills |
Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur) visa | B1 | Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening | IELTS for UKVI – 4.0 overall, and in each of the four skills |
Tier 2 (General) visa - in most cases | B1 | Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening | IELTS for UKVI – 4.0 overall, and in each of the four skills |
Tier 2 (Sportsperson) visa | A1 | Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening | IELTS Life Skills at A1 – Pass IELTS for UKVI2 – 4.0 overall, and in each of the four skills |
Tier 2 (Minister of Religion) visa | B2 | Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening | IELTS for UKVI - 5.5 overall, and in each of the four skills |
Tier 4 (General) student visa - below degree level and pre-sessional courses | B1 | Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening | IELTS for UKVI - 4.0 overall, and in each of the four skills |
Tier 4 (General) student visa - degree level and above | B2 | Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening | IELTS/IELTS for UKVI3 – 5.5 overall, and in each of the four skills |
Family routeSpouse/partner Parent of a dependant | A1 | Speaking and Listening | IELTS Life Skills at A1 – Pass IELTS for UKVI2 – 4.0 in Speaking and Listening |
Family route (extension)Spouse/partner Parent of a dependant | A2 | Speaking and Listening | IELTS Life Skills at A2 – Pass IELTS for UKVI2 – 4.0 in Speaking and Listening |
Indefinite leave to remain (to settle) or citizenship | B1 | Speaking and Listening | IELTS Life Skills at B1 – Pass IELTS for UKVI2 – 4.0 in Speaking and Listening |
IELTS for Employment Opportunities in the UK
English is the dominant language in the UK job market and proficiency in the language is highly valued by employers. Many employers require proof of English language proficiency for certain positions, especially those involving direct communication with clients or international business partners. Strong English skills can significantly increase job prospects, as it demonstrates effective communication abilities, essential for successful professional interactions.
Preparing Strategies for IELTS General Training
- Understand the General Training module's format and requirements, including Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening sections tailored for everyday communication scenarios.
- Enhance your listening skills by actively engaging with a variety of English audio materials, such as news broadcasts, podcasts, and conversations.
- Practice reading different types of texts, such as articles, advertisements, and workplace-related documents, to improve your reading comprehension and vocabulary.
- Develop your writing skills by practising formal and informal letter writing and other common written tasks required in professional settings.
- Work on your speaking fluency and accuracy by participating in discussions, debates, and role-playing exercises.
IELTS for Immigration to the UK
UK Immigration authorities often require proof of English language proficiency for certain visa categories. IELTS is accepted as a valid language test for visa applications in the UK, including various visa categories such as Tier 2 (Skilled Worker), Tier 4 (Student), and Tier 5 (Youth Mobility Scheme).
IELTS Test Fee
Test type | Test fee* |
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IELTS for UKVI | INR 17250 |
Life Skills | INR 16,050 |
*IELTS fee is subject to change without prior notice
IELTS for UKVI Test Locations
Tests are available throughout the country in locations specified by UKVI.
The UKVI does not accept results from any other testing locations. It is advisable to confirm at the time of registration that you wish to use your test result for a UK visa application and make sure you sit the test in an 'IELTS for UKVI’ test session.
IELTS Test Results
Your IELTS for UKVI and Life Skills results are available within 13 days and 7 days of your attempt respectively. You cannot see the results of IELTS for UKVI and Life Skills online. Only the Test Result Form (TRF) is sent to the postal address mentioned by you in the application/registration form.
Be better prepared for IELTS for UKVI with our sample tests
Practice tests are a great way to assess your progress. Our range of free practice test can help you familiarise yourself with the test format and questioning pattern. See how you score under timed conditions, take feedback from your mentors and work on your areas of improvement.