What is IELTS for UKVI? Everything You Need to Know Before Booking Your Test

One of the most frequently asked questions at IDP IELTS, whether at events or during consultations, revolves around IELTS for UKVI. Common queries include:

• What is IELTS for UKVI?

• How do I know if I need to take it?

• How does it differ from the regular IELTS test?

• Who is required to take IELTS for UKVI?

Today, IDP IELTS has compiled the essential facts, key differences, and everything you need to know about IELTS for UKVI to help you understand it easily and choose your test type with confidence.

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IELTS for UKVI is an English language proficiency test approved by the UK Home Office for use in visa applications for study or migration to the United Kingdom. It is classified as a Secure English Language Test (SELT). While the content is similar to the regular test, the UKVI version is specifically required for certain visa categories.

Each university in the UK has different requirements regarding IELTS scores. Candidates can check the specific requirements directly on the website of their chosen university.

Check Carefully: Who Needs to Take IELTS for UKVI?

• Students planning to study at an undergraduate or postgraduate level at a UK university who require a Student visa (formerly Tier 4).

• Individuals planning to move to the UK for work, or to settle as a family member, spouse, or parent, including those applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain.

If you have confirmed that you need to take this test, read on, as IELTS for UKVI is divided into three sub-types depending on your visa purpose.

Selecting the correct IELTS for UKVI test depends entirely on your visa application purpose.

• If you are applying for a Student visa for undergraduate or postgraduate studies, or for specific types of professional work, you must choose IELTS for UKVI Academic.

• If you are migrating as a family member, spouse, or parent, you must choose IELTS Life Skills.

How is IELTS Academic Different from IELTS for UKVI?

The primary difference lies in the purpose of the score submission. If a candidate intends to study in the UK, most universities will accept IELTS for UKVI. However, you must check the specific requirements of each faculty at each university. Another key difference is the test day procedure. IELTS for UKVI involves specific registration steps and stricter monitoring protocols to comply with the security standards set by the UK Home Office.

In some cases, if a candidate’s IELTS score does not meet the direct entry requirements, the university may offer a Pre-sessional course. For these courses, universities usually only accept IELTS for UKVI scores.

https://www.reading.ac.uk/admissions/acceptable-english-language-proficiency-test

Check to ensure you understand the differences with this quick comparison table.

As IDP is a proud co-owner of IELTS with over 30 years of experience, we understand that finding good practice materials can be difficult. IDP has compiled a comprehensive set of practice tests covering all parts and question types. These are available for free to help you familiarise yourself with the format and build confidence before your test day.

Another crucial point for candidates is that only specific test centres are authorisedto conduct IELTS for UKVI due to the enhanced security requirements. If you are worried or need assistance finding a centre, IDP offers a free booking assistance service for IELTS for UKVI.

You can contact our staff via:

• Telephone: 02-091-2878

• Line Application or click the icon on the right side of the screen.

IDP has test centres supporting IELTS for UKVI covering Thailand, including Bangkok, Pathum Thani, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. Check the latest test dates here.

Computer-delivered IELTS for UKVI Centres Results available within 1-5 days after the test

• IDP IELTS Silom (Bangkok)

• IDP IELTS Chiang Mai– I-Genius Language Institute

• IDP IELTS Phuket– Phuket PAL

IELTS tests for UK Visas and Immigration

IELTS for UKVI tests are accepted by United Kingdom Visas and Immigration (UKVI) as proof of English if you want to live, work, or study in the UK.

The following tests are used by the UKVI:

• IELTS for UKVI

• IELTS for UKVI Life Skills A1

• IELTS for UKVI Life Skills A2

• IELTS for UKVI Life Skills B1

The UKVI will only accept tests taken in person at an official IELTS for UKVI test centre, as UKVI requires an additional layer of security when taking language tests.

What score do I need for UKVI visa applications?

The score you will need for UKVI applications, known as the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) level, will depend on the visa you are applying for. (Visit GOV.UK for further guidance on proving your English language abilities ).

• For visas that require CEFR level A1, you need to achieve a Pass in your IELTS for UKVI Life Skills A1 test (Listening and Speaking).

• For visas that require CEFR level A2, you need to achieve a Pass in your IELTS for UKVI Life Skills A2 test (Listening and Speaking).

• For visas that require CEFR level B1, you need to achieve a Pass in your IELTS for UKVI Life Skills B1 test (Listening and Speaking).

• For visas that require CEFR level B1, you need to get at least an IELTS score of 4.0 in all four components of your IELTS for UKVI test (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking).

• For visas that require CEFR level B2 you need to get at least an IELTS score of 5.5 in all four components of your IELTS for UKVI test (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking).

• For visas that require CEFR level C1 you need to get at least an IELTS score of 7.0 in all four components of your IELTS for UKVI test (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking).

The UK government requires you to achieve the scores above in every component of your test. Understand your IELTS score and see how IELTS helps you to prepare.

Important Notes

• Always use official resources such as IELTS.org and gov.uk to confirm your test requirements.

• IDP does not provide immigration advice. For specific visa-related questions, consult the UK government website.

For information on UKVI ID requirements on test day, visit: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/prove-your-english-language-abilities-with-a-secure-english-language-test-selt#prove-your-identity-on-the-day-of-the-test