English Language Tests for UK Visa Applications
Do I need to take a test?
Many UK visa routes require you to prove your English. The route you apply for decides which skills you must show and what level (CEFR A1–C1).
What skills do I need to show?
All four skills (reading, writing, speaking, listening):
Skilled Worker
Health & Care Worker
High Potential Individual (HPI)
Student
Innovator Founder
Minister of Religion
Scale-up
Start-up
Speaking & listening only:
Partner / Spouse / Fiancé(e)
Parent
Settlement (ILR)
British citizenship (naturalisation)
International Sportsperson
Representative of an Overseas Business
Tip: the required CEFR level depends on the route (for example, many work routes are around B1/B2, family routes can be A1/A2/B1, and citizenship/ILR is usually speaking & listening). Always check the specific guidance for your visa.
Approved test providers (SELT)
You must take your test with a Home Office-approved provider at an authorised test centre (not a generic/academic test or unproctored online test).
IELTS for UKVI (IELTS SELT Consortium)
Pearson PTE Academic UKVI
LanguageCert (SELT)
Trinity College London (UK-only)
Validity, scores and retakes
Validity: Test certificates are normally valid for 2 years on the date you apply.
Minimum scores/levels: You must meet the CEFR level required by your route. Some tests report scores; your result must equal or exceed the route’s required level.
Retakes: If you miss the required score, you can retake. Some providers allow component retakes—check their rules.
What to book (in 3 steps)
Confirm your route (e.g., Skilled Worker, Partner, Student).
Check the level & skills needed for that route (all four vs speaking & listening only; CEFR A1–C1).
Choose an approved provider (IELTS/Pearson/LanguageCert/Trinity) and book at an authorised centre in your country.
Common questions
Which test is right for me?
Pick the test that matches your route’s skills requirement (all four vs speaking & listening) and CEFR level.
Can I take it online?
Assume no—for most visa routes the test must be in person at an authorised centre.
What if I already have a degree taught in English?
Some applicants can prove English another way (e.g., a degree taught in English, or nationality from a majority English-speaking country). If you qualify, a test may not be needed.
How soon should I book?
Early. Test dates fill quickly—book as soon as you know your route and level.
How PROVISAS helps
Route check & level: We confirm the exact test and CEFR level for your visa.
Provider & booking: We help you choose an approved SELT and find an authorised centre.
Prep tips: We share practical prep resources so you hit the required level.
Application support: We make sure your certificate and reference numbers are correctly included in your application.
Need help choosing the right test?
Book a free assessment and we’ll confirm your route, level and the quickest way to meet the English requirement.