The UK Home Office has refreshed its list of Secure English Language Tests (SELT) required for immigration and citizenship purposes, introducing changes designed to simplify the process and clarify expectations for global applicants.
In the latest update, the LANGUAGECERT ESOL SELT 4-skills exam is set to be replaced by two new formats. Importantly, results from the previous version remain valid for two years, while unused test vouchers are still good for up to 12 months.
What Tests Are Required and Who Needs Them?
English test requirements vary based on the type of visa being applied for. There are two key categories:
1. Four-Skills Test (Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking):
Applicants for the following visa routes must take the full 4-skills SELT:
– Skilled Worker Visa
– Health and Care Worker Visa
– Student Visa
– Start-up / Innovator Founder Visa
– Scale-up Worker Visa
– High-Potential Individual Visa
– Minister of Religion Visa
– Temporary Work (International Agreement route)
2. Speaking and Listening Test Only:
Those applying for the following must complete only the speaking and listening components:
– UK Citizenship
– Settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain)
– Partner / Parent Visa
– International Sportsperson Visa
– Representative of an Overseas Business
Who Can Administer the Tests?
The UK government recognises several providers as authorised to conduct SELT assessments:
– Pearson
– Trinity College London
– IELTS SELT Consortium
– PSI Services (Skills for English UKVI)
– LANGUAGECERT
Where to Take the Test
Inside the UK:
Applicants may take their test through the following centres:
– Pearson
– Trinity College London
– IELTS SELT Consortium
– LANGUAGECERT
Outside the UK (International Centres):
– Pearson
– IELTS SELT Consortium
– PSI Services (UKVI)
– LANGUAGECERT
Important Booking Notes
Tests can typically be scheduled within 28 days through the respective providers’ websites. It’s essential that the booking details exactly match the name on the applicant’s ID.
Accepted ID for Testing Includes:
– Passport
– UK Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) or Biometric Residence Card (BRC)
– EEA National ID Card (where relevant)
– Government-issued photo ID (for applicants outside the UK only)
Photocopies and emergency documents are not allowed. Once the test is completed, applicants will receive a SELT reference number, which is necessary to link their test result with their visa or citizenship application.
