IELTS for UKVI

What is IELTS for UKVI, and Why is it Required?

IELTS for UKVI' is an officially approved English Language Test recognised by the UK government. It allows applicants to demonstrate their proficiency in English while applying for a UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI). IELTS is reappointed as a language test trusted by the UK government for visas.

You can read about this in detail here: IELTS for UK Reappointed by the UK government .

If you are planning to study, work or move to the UK, you need to appear for IELTS for UKVI. Universities, colleges, and professional bodies will only accept IELTS for UKVI scores. Regular IELTS will not be considered.

Various visa categories require applicants to have an English language qualification from the list of Secure English Language Tests (SELT tests) approved by the UK Home Office.

What are the Different IELTS Tests for the UK?

For UKVI, three types of IELTS test are available: Academic, General training and Life Skills . Each of these is discussed below:

While there is no change in the content, format or level of difficulty and scoring, IELTS for UKVI simply follows certain extra security protocols to ensure the authenticity of the test taker. Also, your Test Report Form (TRF) may look slightly different from the regular IELTS one.Candidates applying for the Tier 4 Student visa must meet the language requirement set by their university or college; others can use this table as a guide to assess the score needed to qualify:

IELTS for Employment Opportunities in the UK

English is the dominant language in the UK job market and proficiency in the language is highly valued by employers. Many employers require proof of English language proficiency for certain positions, especially those involving direct communication with clients or international business partners. Strong English skills can significantly increase job prospects, as it demonstrates effective communication abilities, essential for successful professional interactions.

Preparing Strategies for IELTS General Training

• Understand the General Training module's format and requirements, including Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening sections tailored for everyday communication scenarios.

• Enhance your listening skills by actively engaging with a variety of English audio materials, such as news broadcasts, podcasts, and conversations.

• Practice reading different types of texts, such as articles, advertisements, and workplace-related documents, to improve your reading comprehension and vocabulary.

• Develop your writing skills by practising formal and informal letter writing and other common written tasks required in professional settings.

• Work on your speaking fluency and accuracy by participating in discussions, debates, and role-playing exercises.

IELTS for Immigration to the UK

UK Immigration authorities often require proof of English language proficiency for certain visa categories. IELTS is accepted as a valid language test for visa applications in the UK, including various visa categories such as Tier 2 (Skilled Worker), Tier 4 (Student), and Tier 5 (Youth Mobility Scheme).

IELTS Test Fee

*IELTS fee is subject to change without prior notice

IELTS for UKVI Test Locations

Tests are available throughout the country in locations specified by UKVI.

The UKVI does not accept results from any other testing locations. It is advisable to confirm at the time of registration that you wish to use your test result for a UK visa application and make sure you sit the test in an 'IELTS for UKVI’ test session.

IELTS Test Results

Your IELTS for UKVI and Life Skills results are available within 13 days and 7 days of your attempt respectively. You cannot see the results of IELTS for UKVI and Life Skills online. Only the Test Result Form (TRF) is sent to the postal address mentioned by you in the application/registration form.

Be better prepared for IELTS for UKVI with our sample tests

Practice tests are a great way to assess your progress. Our range of free practice test can help you familiarise yourself with the test format and questioning pattern. See how you score under timed conditions, take feedback from your mentors and work on your areas of improvement.

Listening Test

Sample Listening Multiple Choice (one answer)

You will hear an extract from a Part 3 recording in which a student called Judy is discussing her research with her tutor and fellow students.

For each question, click on the correct answer.

Sample Listening Multiple Choice (one answer)

Sample Listening Multiple Choice (one answer) Answer Key

Sample Listening Multiple Choice (one answer) Recording Transcript

Sample Listening Matching

You will hear an extract from a Part 2 recording in which a woman is talking to new staff at a children’s summer camp.

For each question, click on the correct answer and move it into the gap.

Sample Listening Matching

Sample Listening Matching Answer Key

Sample Listening Matching Recording Transcript

Sample Listening Note Completion

You will hear an extract from a Part 1 recording in which two people are discussing second-hand furniture.

For each question, write your answer in the gap.

Sample Listening Note Completion

Sample Listening Note Completion Answer Key

Sample Listening Note Completion Recording Transcript

Sample Listening Multiple Choice (one answer)

You will hear an extract from a Part 1 recording in which two people are discussing a guide to a library.

Click on the correct answers.

Sample Listening Multiple Choice (more than one answer)

Sample Listening Multiple Choice (more than one answer) Answer Key

Sample Listening Multiple Choice (more than one answer) Recording Transcript

Sample Listening Plan/Map/Diagram Labelling (Type A)

You will hear an extract from Part 2 of the test in which a tour guide describes different places in a US town.

For each question, click on the correct space in the table.

Sample Listening Plan/Map/Diagram Labelling

Sample Listening Plan/Map/Diagram Labelling Answer Key

Sample Listening Plan/Map/Diagram Recording Transcript

Sample Listening Short Answer Questions

You will hear an extract from Part 2 of the test in which a representative from a clothing company is giving a talk to high school students.

For each question, write your answer in the gap.

Sample Listening Short Answer Questions

Sample Listening Short Answer Questions Answer Key

Sample Listening Short Answer Questions Recording Transcript

Academic Reading

Sample Academic Reading Multiple Choice (one answer)

You will read an extract from a Part 1 text about older people in the workforce.

Click on the correct answer.

Sample Academic Reading Multiple Choice (one answer)

Sample Academic Reading Multiple Choice (one answer) Answer Key

Sample Listening Matching

You will hear an extract from a Part 2 recording in which a woman is talking to new staff at a children’s summer camp.

For each question, click on the correct answer and move it into the gap.

Sample Listening Matching Sample Listening Matching Answer Key

Sample Listening Matching Recording Transcript

Sample Academic Reading Note Completion

You will read an extract from a Part 1 text about the scientist Marie Curie.

For each question, write your answer in the gap.

Sample Academic Reading Note Completion

Sample Academic Reading Note Completion Answer Key

Sample Academic Reading Summary Completion (selecting words from the text)

You will read an extract from a Part 3 text about the ‘Plain English’ movement, which promotes the use of clear English.

For each question, write your answer in the gap.

Sample Academic Reading Summary Completion (selecting words from the text)

Sample Academic Reading Summary Completion (selecting words from the text) Answer Key

Sample Academic Reading Flow-chart Completion (selecting words from the text)

You will read an extract from a Part 3 text about the effect of a low-calorie diet on the ageing process.

For each question, write your answer in the gap.

Sample Academic Reading Flow-chart Completion (selecting words from the text)

Sample Academic Reading Flow-chart Completion (selecting words from the text) Answer Key

Sample Academic Reading Multiple Choice (more than one answer)

You will read an extract from a Part 1 text about older people in the workforce.

Click on the correct answers.

Sample Academic Reading Multiple Choice (more than one answer)

Sample Academic Reading Multiple Choice (more than one answer) Answer Key

Sample Academic Reading Identifying Information (True/False/Not Given)

You will read an extract from a Part 1 text about the scientist Marie Curie.

Click on the correct answer.

Sample Academic Reading Identifying Information (True/False/Not Given)

Sample Academic Reading Identifying Information (True/False/Not Given) Answer Key

Sample Academic Reading Matching Headings

You will read a Part 2 text about the physics of traffic behaviour.

For each question, click on the correct answer and move it into the gap.

Sample Academic Reading Matching Headings

Sample Academic Reading Matching Headings Answer Key

Sample Academic Reading Summary Completion (selecting from a list of words or phrases)

You will read an extract from a Part 3 text about language.

For each question, write your answer in the gap.

Sample Academic Reading Summary Completion (selecting from a list of words or phrases)

Sample Academic Reading Summary Completion (selecting from a list of words or phrases) Answer Key

Academic Writing

Sample Academic Writing Part 1

Responses to Sample Part 1 and Part 2 with band scores and examiner comments

Sample Academic Writing Part 2

Responses to Sample Part 1 and Part 2 with band scores and examiner comments