UKVI IELTS: Meaning, Fees, Score Requirements

International English Language Testing System ( IELTS )

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Raushan
Raushan Kumar
Assistant Manager Content
Updated on Oct 4, 2024 10:01 IST

If you are planning to pursue any educational degree from the UK, you will have to give a separate language exam called IELTS for UKVI. General IELTS will not be accepted at UK universities and colleges anymore. It is a UK government-approved Secure English Language Test (SELT). This means that IELTS can be used to prove your English language abilities in support of a UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI) application.

UKVI IELTS

The IELTS for UKVI (International English Language Testing System for UK Visas and Immigration) is a specialized version of the IELTS test designed to meet the specific requirements set by the UK government for visa applications. This test is crucial for individuals looking to live, work, or study in UK, as it serves as proof of English language proficiency.

The pattern of the IELTS UKVI test and the scoring are precisely the same as IELTS and involves ListeningReadingWriting and Speaking sections. However, the difference lies in the TRF (Test Report Form). For the IELTS for UKVI, you will receive a different SELT Reference Number that can be used for the UK Home Office. UKVI test is available only at those test centres that meet the administrative requirements outlined by the UK Home Office.

Free IELTS Class by Shiksha - Registration 

This IELTS UKVI test is for test takers wishing to study in the UK at undergraduate or postgraduate levels and for those seeking professional registration in the UK. For different purposes, there are different types within IELTS for UKVI. Depending on your requirement, you will have to register for either type. Consult the following table for reference.

Test takers must note that the Nursing and Midwifery Council and the General Medical Council in the UK accept IELTS and IELTS for UKVI, both. Hence, doctors, dentists, nurses and midwives can use both IELTS or IELTS for UKVI results for entry and registration.

Types of IELTS for UKVI Tests

Before booking, check the test you need and the level you need to achieve: UK Visas and Immigration website.

Test Type

For information

IELTS Academic for UK Visas and Immigration

  • This test is for test takers wishing to study at undergraduate or postgraduate levels and for those seeking professional registration in the UK.
  • The test involves Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking.

IELTS General Training for UK Visas and Immigration

  • This test is for test takers wishing to migrate to the UK and for those wishing to train or study below degree level.
  • The test involves Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking.

IELTS Life Skills A1

  • This test is for those who need to prove their English Speaking and Listening skills as part of their application to UK Visas and Immigration for the family of a settled person.
  • The A1 level is within the Common European Framework of References for Languages (CEFR), the equivalent to ESOL Entry 1 on the National Qualification Framework (NQF).
  • The test involves Speaking and Listening.

IELTS Life Skills B1

  • This test is for those who need to prove their English Speaking and Listening skills as part of their application to UK Visas and Immigration for the citizen or settlement visa.
  • The B1 level is within the Common European Framework of References for Languages (CEFR), the equivalent to ESOL Entry 3 on the National Qualification Framework (NQF).
  • The test involves Speaking and Listening.

IELTS for UKVI Fee

The fee of IELTS UKVI is different from that of general IELTS.

IELTS Test Type

IELTS Test Fee 2024

IELTS on Computer for UKVI

INR 17,250

IELTS Life Skills (A1 and B1)

INR 16,050

IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration

INR 17,250

IELTS UKVI Score Requirements for Different Visa Categories

The IELTS UKVI score requirements vary depending on the UK visa category you are applying for, as  defined by the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) levels:

  • CEFR Level A1: Pass in IELTS for UKVI Life Skills A1 (Listening and Speaking).
  • CEFR Level A2: Pass in IELTS for UKVI Life Skills A2 (Listening and Speaking).
  • CEFR Level B1:
    • Pass in IELTS for UKVI Life Skills B1 (Listening and Speaking).
    • Minimum score of 4.0 in all four components of the standard IELTS for UKVI test.
  • CEFR Level B2: Minimum score of 5.5 in all four components (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking).
  • CEFR Level C1: Minimum score of 7.0 in all four components (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking).

Difference Between IELTS and IELTS for UKVI

The IELTS and IELTS for UKVI are both English language proficiency tests, but they serve different purposes and have specific requirements. Here’s a detailed comparison of the two, IELTS and IELTS for UKVI:

Test Format and Content

  • IELTS: The standard IELTS test assesses four language skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. It is available in two formats: Academic and General Training.

  • IELTS for UKVI: This version is specifically designed for individuals applying for visas to live, work, or study in the UK. While the test format, content, scoring, and level of difficulty are the same as the standard IELTS, the Test Report Form (TRF) is different. It indicates that the test was taken at an official IELTS for UKVI location approved by the UK Home Office. 

Acceptance

  • IELTS: Accepted by educational institutions, employers, and governments worldwide.

  • IELTS for UKVI: Accepted specifically by the UK government for visa applications. It is mandatory for certain visa categories.

Security Measures

  • IELTS: Conducted in various test centers worldwide with standard security protocols.

  • IELTS for UKVI: Requires additional security measures due to its use in visa applications. Tests must be taken in person at an official IELTS for UKVI test centre.

IELTS UKVI FAQs

Q. What is IELTS for UKVI?

A. IELTS for UKVI (commonly known as UKVI IELTS) is a UK government-approved Secure English Language Test (SELT) that a candidate needs to take if he/she wants to apply for a UK Visa. IELTS for UKVI does not differ in content and difficulty level as compared to the General IELTS examination. The only difference lies in the extra security measures introduced for ensuring a candidate’s authenticity. In addition, the IELTS TRF (Test Report Form) will be different, wherein you will receive a different SELT Reference Number that is used by the UK Home Office.

Q. What all IELTS for UKVI test versions are available?

A. There are five IELTS for UKVI test versions available. Their overview is given in the points below:
  • IELTS for UKVI Academic: It is for those who want to study at undergraduate or postgraduate levels, and for those who are looking for professional registration in the UK.
  • IELTS for UKVI General Training: It is for those who want to migrate to the UK, and also for those who want to train or study below degree level,
  • IELTS Life Skills A1: Those who have applied for ‘family of a settled person’ visas and want to prove their English speaking and listening skills, need to take this test.
  • IELTS Life Skills B1: Those who have applied for ‘indefinite leave to remain or citizenship’ and want to prove their English speaking and listening skills, need to take this test.

Q. Is IELTS for UKVI tougher than other IELTS tests?

A. No. IELTS for UKVI has a similar test pattern, scoring criteria, and difficulty level as that of general IELTS. The major difference is in the introduction of extra security measures that are valid in the case of IELTS for UKVI. Moreover, your IELTS TRF will also be a bit different from your general IELTS TRF and will contain a different SELT Reference Number.

Q. What is the fee for UKVI IELTS?

A. As of now, IELTS UKVI costs INR 15,750 and IELTS Life Skills tests cost INR 14,600. While registering for the test, make sure that you choose the correct test variant and that you are clear about the purpose of each of the variants. The location of the test is specified by UKVI.

Q. When will the test results be available for UKVI IELTS?

A. IELTS for UKVI test results will be available within 13 days from the day of your test. IELTS Life Skills test results will be available within 7 days from the day of your test. Candidates must note that their results will not be available online. Rather, IELTS TRF (Test Result Form) will be sent to their postal address.
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Q:   What is the eligibility criteria for IELTS?

A:

There is no specific eligibility criterion for taking the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) exam. It is open to individuals of all ages and educational backgrounds who wish to demonstrate their English language proficiency. Whether you are a student, a professional, or someone seeking immigration or work opportunities in English-speaking countries, you are eligible to take the IELTS. There are no prerequisites such as educational qualifications, age restrictions, or prior language learning experience. The IELTS is accessible to anyone who wants to showcase their English language proficiency. However, it is preferable that students above the age of 16 appear for the exam. 

Q:   Can I qualify IELTS?

A:

There are no strict IELTS eligblity criteria. So, any candidates with 16 plus years of age can apply for IELTS and with better preparation can easily qualify for the test. 

Q:   How to prepare for UK 10th board exam 2025?

A:

Those who are preparing for the UK Class 10 exam 2025 are recommended to follow the tips below.

  • Know the exam pattern
  • Make a proper time table as per the syllabus
  • Solve previous year question papers
  • Make short notes of important formulas and theorems
  • Revise regularly
  • Figure out weaker areas and learn them well

With proper planning and hard work, students can easily clear the UK 10th board exam.

Q:   Can a 10th pass apply for IELTS exam?

A:

Yes, a candidate who is 10th pass can apply for the IELTS exam. There are no specific educational qualifications required to take the IELTS test, but candidates must be at least 16 years old. 

Q:   How much percentage is required in 12th for IELTS?

A:

IELTS IDP has not set any 12th score requirements for taking the IELTS. You can take the IELTS irrespective of the marks you scored in the 12th standard. So, one can attempt the IELTS exam without worrying about their class 12th score.

Q:   How many attempts are possible in the IELTS exam for students looking to study abroad?

A:

Students looking to study abroad can take the IELTS exam as many times as they wish. There is no specific limit on the number of attempts for the IELTS. However, it is important to note that frequent retesting without adequate preparation may not yield the desired results. Each attempt requires payment of the exam fee, and test dates are subject to availability. It is advisable for students to focus on improving their English language skills before attempting the exam again, rather than relying solely on multiple attempts. Preparation, practice, and understanding of the test format are key to achieving the desired scores for studying abroad.

Q:   Why indian students choose to study at Hult International Business School - UK?

A:

Indian students choose to study at Hult International Business School in the UK for several reasons, including its highly ranked programs, global outlook, and career support. Hult offers a range of full-time master’s degrees, immersive bachelor's programs, and MBA options that prepare students to excel in the global job market. The school is the largest and top-ranked global business school, providing students with an incomparable universal outlook. Additionally, Hult's focus on experiential learning, extensive career support, and the opportunity to study at multiple campuses around the world are attractive to Indian students seeking a global business education. Furthermore, the school's emphasis on innovation and meeting the needs of students and employers may also contribute to its appeal to Indian students

Q:   How to download UK Board 12th date sheet 2024?

A:

Following are the steps to download the UK 12th date sheet 2024. 

  • Open the Uttarakhand Board's official website at ubse.uk.gov.in
  • Click on 'Examination Scheme' available on the homepage
  • A new window will appear on the screen containing a link of the UK Board 12th date sheet 2024
  • Click the link and download the Uttarakhand 12th date sheet 2024
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Written by
Raushan Kumar
Assistant Manager Content

Raushan Kumar is a skilled writer and a Study Abroad Expert in the Editorial Team at Shiksha. He oversees various aspects of studying abroad, including educational opportunities, entrance exams, colleges, latest new... Read Full Bio

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Joyasmita
Expertise in UK

Joyasmita is equipped with extensive experience of over 7+ industry years out of which five have been in International Education. She has helped place, several students, to live their dream of Studying Abroad. Her k... Read Full Bio

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Comments

(2)

L

Lakshay y

2 years ago

Can IELTS ukvi can be used for other countries

Reply to Lakshay y

P

Piyush Kohli

2 years ago

Hi Lakshay, it can be used but it is better to go with the IELTS Academic, as it is specifically designed for securing admission to higher education institutions.

M

Mildred lopes

2 years ago

How do I register for UKVI FOR IELTS ?

Reply to Mildred lopes

P

Piyush Kohli

2 years ago

Hi, please go through the below URL and learn more about the IELTS Registration: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/exams/ielts/how-to-register