Date of the last update: 13.03.2025
IELTS UKVI (International English Language Testing System for UK Visas and Immigration) is a special version of the IELTS exam that has been created for those applying for a residence or immigration visa to the UK. It is accepted by the UK Home Office as proof of English language skills required to work, study or settle in the UK.
Table of contents:
- Differences between IELTS UKVI and other versions of IELTS
- Who is IELTS UKVI designed for?
- Process for taking the exam
- Why is it worth passing IELTS UKVI?
- Comparison with IELTS General Training
- Why IELTS UKVI is required by the UK Home Office
- Summary
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Differences between IELTS UKVI and other versions of IELTS
IELTS UKVI is essentially identical to other versions of IELTS, such as IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training, in terms of content, format and level of difficulty. The main difference is that the results obtained in the IELTS UKVI test are documented in a special Test Report Form, which includes a notation that the test was taken at a UKVI-approved test centre.
| IELTS Version | Use | Visa requirements |
| IELTS Academic | Higher education in English-speaking countries | Not required for student visa application |
| IELTS General Training | Working or studying at a non-university level | Required for a work visa application |
| IELTS UKVI | Required for UK visa applicants | Mandatory for all visa applicants |
Who is IELTS UKVI designed for?
IELTS UKVI is aimed at people who plan to:
- Study at UK universities but do not have (pre-)settled status.
- Apply for a Tier 4 student visa.
- Work in the UK or apply for other types of immigration visa.
For higher education, many universities require a score of 6.0-6.5, which corresponds to level B2 in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
Process for taking the exam
- Registration: you must register for the online exam with an approved test centre. It is important to ensure that the chosen centre offers the IELTS UKVI tests.
- Preparation: It is recommended that you use the preparation materials available online and attend preparation courses. You can also take mock tests.
- Exam day:
- The written parts (listening, reading and writing) are held on a single day.
- The speaking part can be held from 7 days before to 7 days after the written part.
- Receipt of results: Results are usually available within 13 days of the exam date.
Why is it worth passing IELTS UKVI?
There are several reasons to pass the IELTS UKVI. First and foremost are the visa requirements – for those planning to study or work in the UK, passing this test is often necessary to obtain the appropriate visa.
Most UK universities also honour IELTS UKVI results as evidence of English language proficiency.
As with other versions of IELTS, it is always possible to take the test more than once. Candidates can take the exam multiple times, giving them the chance to improve their score without restriction. They can also improve one selected element of the test to improve one particular score.
Let’s not forget that preparing for the exam can help you to better understand the English language and British culture, making it easier for applicants to adapt on arrival.
Comparison with IELTS General Training
IELTS General Training is more focused on the language skills needed for everyday life and work. It is suitable for those planning to emigrate or work at a non-academic level. In contrast, IELTS Academic and IELTS UKVI focus on the skills required at an academic level.
| Feature | IELTS General Training | IELTS UKVI / Academic |
| Aim | Work, migration | Higher education and visa applications |
| Topics | Daily life and work | Academic topics |
| Visa requirements | May be required for certain visas | Mandatory for all visa applicants |
Why IELTS UKVI is required by the UK Home Office
SELT (Secure English Language Test) tests, of which IELTS UKVI is one, are designed to rigorous security and quality standards. This means that the results are objective and accurately reflect the actual language skills of the test taker. This in turn provides the Home Office with confidence that applicants have the right language skills to live and work in the UK.
In addition, systematising the language requirements for obtaining a visa means that candidates are assessed in one consistent, universal, reliable and uniform way. This facilitates the process of assessing candidates on their ability to adapt to a new country.
The IELTS UKVI exam is a key step for those planning to study or work in the UK. Understanding the differences between this test and other versions of IELTS, and knowing the process of taking it, can significantly facilitate your visa application and help you succeed academically or professionally in the UK. However, it is worth noting that the IELTS UKVI exam is only administered at selected Examination Centres due to the high level of requirements they must meet in order to conduct the examination process.
Summary
The IELTS UKVI exam is a crucial step for individuals planning to study or work in the United Kingdom. Understanding the differences between this test and other versions of IELTS, as well as being familiar with the application process, can significantly ease the visa application process and contribute to academic or professional success in the UK. However, it is important to note that the IELTS UKVI exam is conducted only in selected test centers due to the high standards they must meet in order to administer the exam.
