FAQ
Below are the answers to the most common questions about IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration.
We have grouped the most common questions about IELTS for UKVI into groups – general questions about IELTS for UKVI and the AC/GT version of the classic IELTS test and frequently asked questions about the new IELTS Life Skills test. Click on the category to expand and get the answers you need.
I’ve already taken IELTS. Can I still use my result to apply to UK Visas and Immigration?
If you take IELTS on or before 5 April 2015 you may be able to use it for your application up to 5 November 2015. We advise you to confirm this with UKVI before making your application.
From 6 April 2015 you must take the test at an IELTS test centre authorised by UKVI to run IELTS tests for UK visa and immigration purposes and you must confirm at the time of registration that you wish to use your test for UK Visas and Immigration.
For more information on IELTS Life Skills, please visit Life Skills Test page.
If I take an IELTS test for UK visa purposes, can I use my result in other countries / for other purposes?
How is my IELTS test different if I take it for UK visa purposes?
How often can I re-take IELTS or IELTS Life Skills?
There are no restrictions on retaking IELTS. You can register for a test as soon as you feel you are ready to do so.
If you pass IELTS Life Skills, you cannot retake it for a period of two years. If you do not pass it, there are no restrictions on retaking the test.
How often is an IELTS or IELTS Life Skills test available?
Can I use any IELTS test result for UK visa application?
If you wish to use an IELTS or IELTS Life Skills test result as part of your application for UK visa purposes (apart from some types of student visa), you may need to take the test at an IELTS test centre which is specifically authorised by UK Visas and Immigration for this purpose, and the test must be taken under conditions specified by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
You will receive an IELTS – or IELTS Life Skills – Test Report Form which shows that you have taken your test to meet the UKVI requirements.
What do I need to do if I am applying to study at a British university or college?
Which IELTS test do I need if I am applying for a UK visa application?
If you are applying for a UK visa, there is an IELTS test for you.
For visa applications to the UK, you may need to have an English language qualification. IELTS and IELTS Life Skills are included on both the UK Home Office’s list of Secure English Language Tests (referred to as SELT tests by UK Home Office) and the OFQUAL register.
It is recommended you check all visa requirement information directly with the UK government website.
To find out whether you need to take an approved test, what level you need to achieve, and which test you can use, you should contact UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). For more information, please visit Guidance on Applying for UK Visa – approved English language tests.
As a guide, you may refer to the table on here.
How soon will I get my IELTS Life Skills results?
For more information on IELTS Life Skills, please visit Life Skills Test page.
How many copies of IELTS Life Skills Test Report Form will I get?
How can I prepare for the IELTS Life Skills test?
How is IELTS Life Skills assessed?
A certificated IELTS Examiner will assess your performance throughout the Speaking and Listening test based on the following criteria:
- obtaining information
- conveying information
- speaking to communicate
- engaging in discussion
The performance of the other test taker paired with you in IELTS Life Skills test does not affect the assessment of your own performance.
Is there any break between Speaking and Listening?
How long does the IELTS Life Skills test take?
Why does IELTS Life Skills only cover Speaking and Listening?
What is the format of the IELTS Life Skills test?
What is IELTS Life Skills? What is it for?
IELTS Life Skills is a test of Speaking and Listening, available at CEFR Level A1 and CEFR Level B1. It is designed to meet the requirements of UK Visas and Immigration for people applying:
- As Family of a settled person visa
- For indefinite leave to remain (to settle) or citizenship
To find out whether you need to take the IELTS Life Skills test and the level you need to achieve, you should contact UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). For more information, please visit Guidance on Applying for UK Visa – approved English language tests.