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)

  1. Confirm your route (e.g., Skilled Worker, Partner, Student).

  2. Check the level & skills needed for that route (all four vs speaking & listening only; CEFR A1–C1).

  3. 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.