What is the English language test?
The English language test is designed to test your knowledge and understanding of English.
For visa or Citizenship applications, you may need to prove your knowledge of English by passing a UKVI English language test. You must ensure that your English language test and test center are UKVI approved. If they are not, your test will be invalid and you will not be able to use it as proof of your English language proficiency for visa applications.
Who has to take the English language test?
There are two different types of English language tests. This is because different visa routes require different levels of English language ability.
| Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening: | Speaking and Listening: |
| Health and Care worker | Citizenship |
| Innovator Founder | Parent |
| Skilled Worker | Partner |
| Student | Settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain) |
| High Potential Individual | Representative of an Overseas Business |
| Start-up | International Sportsperson |
| Minister of Religion | |
| Temporary Work – International Agreement (private servants in a diplomatic household making applications for entry clearance) | |
If you are applying for any of the visa categories above, you must take the English language test.
Taking the test:
If you are in the UK, you can only take the English Language test with one of the following providers:
- LANGUAGECERT
- Pearson
- Trinity College London
- IELTS SELT Consortium
If you are outside of the UK, you can only take the English Language test with one of the following providers:
- LANGUAGECERT
- Pearson
- PSI Services (UK) Ltd
- IELTS SELT Consortium
It is important to note that in order for your test to be approved:
It must have been on the list of approved English language tests.
You must have taken the test at an approved test location.
been awarded in the two years before the date of your application.
You can find an approved test centre and provider on the Home Office’s website.
What to bring on the day of the test:
Once you arrive at your approved test centre, you will need to provide proof of your identity before you can take the test.
You can use the following documents as identification:
Passport
UK biometric residence permit (BRP)
UK biometric residence card (BRC)
Convention travel document
Stateless persons travel document
If your BRP or BRC are expired, you can still use them to take the test. However, you must book your test no later than 18 months after the expiry date printed in your card. Bring your expired card with you to the test centre.
What happens after I take the test?
After you have passed the test, you will receive a unique reference number.
Your unique reference number is valid for 2 years from the date the test is awarded
You must use your unique reference number when making your UK visa application.
If you do not pass the test, you must resit it until you pass. Without passing the test, you cannot proceed with your UK visa application.
How can we help you?
Thomas Chase Immigration offer immigration assistance to individuals and families.
If you have questions or concerns or you would like straightforward immigration advice, or help with applying for a visa, Thomas Chase Immigration can help. Our processes are tried and tested. We offer an individual touch when assisting you and presenting the matter to the Home Office. Contact us at info@thomaschaseimmigration.com.
