Content Curator | Updated On - Mar 9, 2024
The UKVI IELTS is the same as the regular IELTS, which measures a candidate's English language proficiency in four sections: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. IELTS and IELTS for UKVI are identical in terms of content, format, difficulty level, and scoring system. The only distinction is that the UKVI IELTS is recognized by the UK government for job, study, and migration to UK. Computer-delivered IELTS UKVI costs INR 16,500, and IELTS Life Skills (A1 and B1) fee is INR 15,350. The minimum IELTS UKVI score for colleges, universities, or institutes of the UK for undergraduates is 5.5 band scores, and for postgraduates 6.5 band scores.
General IELTS will no longer be accepted by UK universities and institutions. Secure English Language Test (SELT) that has been certified by the UK government. As a result, IELTS can be used to demonstrate your English language skills in support of a UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI) application. The test format and scoring are identical to IELTS, with sections on Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The IELTS TRF (Test Report Form) is where the distinction lies. You will be given an unique SELT Reference Number for the IELTS for UKVI that you can use with the UK Home Office. The UKVI test is only available at test centers that meet the UK Home Office's administrative standards.
IELTS UKVI is for candidates who want to study in UK at the undergraduate or postgraduate levels, as well as those who want to be registered as professionals in the UK. There are various forms of IELTS for UKVI for various objectives. You must register for either type, depending on your needs. You should be aware that the Nursing and Midwifery Council and the General Medical Council in the United Kingdom both accept IELTS and IELTS for UKVI. As a result, doctors, dentists, nurses, and midwives can enter and register using either IELTS or IELTS for UKVI scores.
IELTS vs. IELTS UKVI
UKVI full form is UK Visas and Immigration. There are a number of differences between IELTS and IELTS UKVI. Provided below is a table that highlights differences between IELTS and IELTS UKVI:
IELTS Exam Types
The IELTS tests below are included on the list of SELT tests and have been approved for UK Visas and Immigration purposes:
| Test | Purpose |
|---|---|
| IELTS for UKVI (Academic) | For test takers wishing to study at undergraduate or postgraduate levels, and for those seeking professional registration in the UK. |
| IELTS for UKVI (General Training) | For candidates wanting to migrate to UK and wishing to work or study below degree level. |
| IELTS Life Skills A1 | Candidates who need to prove their English Speaking and Listening skills as part of their application to UK Visas and Immigration for Sportsperson (T2), Representative of an Overseas Business, or Family (Spouse/partner; Fiancé, fiancée or proposed civil partner; Parent of a dependent) visas. |
| IELTS Life Skills A2 | For test-takers to prove their English Speaking and Listening skills as part of their application to UK Visas and Immigration for extension to Family visas (Spouse/partner or Parent of a dependent). (This test is only available in the UK) |
| IELTS Life Skills B1 | Applicants who want to prove their English Speaking and Listening skills as part of their application to UK Visas and Immigration for Citizenship or Settlement (also known as indefinite leave to remain) visas. |
| IELTS Life Skills B2 | Applicants need B2 life skill for Tier 2 Minister of Religion visa, and Tier 4 General Student visa- degree level or above and some pre-sessional courses. |
IELTS for a Tier 4 Student Visa
The English language proficiency requirement provided by the university where you plan to pursue an undergraduate or graduate degree is a requirement for obtaining a Tier 4 Student Visa. IELTS scores are accepted at all UK colleges and institutions.
You must take an English language exam from the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) list of Secure English Language Tests (SELTs) if you intend to study below degree level and you must apply for a Tier 4 visa. The list of approved SELTs for a visa application has mentioned two, with IELTS being one of them. The majority of UK colleges and universities are listed as Tier 4 Sponsors on the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website. They can therefore choose which tests to consider as evidence of proficiency in the English language. In addition to IELTS, the majority of UK colleges and universities also recognize C1 Advanced and C2 Proficiency.
UKVI IELTS Registration
You can register for IELTS UKVI registration and ensure your IELTS UKVI booking. Register IELTS UKVI can be confirmed by following the steps on the official UKVI IELTS website. Follow the below steps for online UKVI IELTS registration:
- Check the official website of IELTS and create an account by adding personal details such as a valid email ID, contact number, and others.
- Log in to your profile.
- Choose either IELTS UKVI or IELTS Life Skills.
- Book test date(at least 3 months before). The IELTS Speaking test is taken 7 days before or after the assigned test date.
- Recheck and submit before submission.
- Apply for additional TRFs in case you need to send your IELTS score to more institutions.
- Once completed, pay UKVI IELTS fees via Netbanking or by credit/debit cards.
Follow the below steps for Offline UKVI IELTS registration:
You can register for UKVI IELTS through the offline method. For UKVI registration offline download the registration form from the official website and fill it. Then submit it to the nearest IELTS branch office. For offline registration, you need to make the payment through a demand draft or bank deposition.
UKVI IELTS eligibility requires you to be above 18 years old. If you are below 18 years old and appearing for UKVI IELTS, require your parent or guardian to book the slots for them. For the exam, the identification documents of the candidates are to be uploaded as a part of the booking process. Make sure you have an online payment platform if applicable. Meanwhile, candidates can appear for the IELTS test by following IELTS registration. The UKVI test dates IELTS and test centers are available throughout the year in India.
UKVI IELTS Life Skills Test Format
The IELTS UKVI Life Skill Test is designed to meet certain immigration requirements for which applicants only need to demonstrate their speaking and listening skills. Meanwhile, candidates can check for IELTS speaking and IELTS listening for overall knowledge. The table below evaluates test types and duration in UKVI IELTS Life Skills Test for candidates' reference:
| Test Type | IELTS Life Skills CEFR Level A1 |
|---|---|
| Test Duration | 16–18 minutes |
| Skills Assessed | Ability to extract information, convey information, communicate skills, and engage in discussion. |
UKVI IELTS is required for a candidate to get approved for UK Visa and Immigration. IELTS UKVI exam dates are available throughout the year. Candidates can select their suitable UKVI exam dates at their preferred location. You can take IELTS for UKVI for UK PR, work visa, and admission to top colleges and universities.
FAQs
Ques. What is UKVI IELTS?
Ans. UKVI IELTS is the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam that is accepted by UK Visas and Immigration for visa applications to the UK. The UKVI IELTS is the same as the regular IELTS, which measures a candidate's English language proficiency in four sections: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. IELTS and IELTS for UKVI are identical in terms of content, format, difficulty level, and scoring system.
Ques. What is the difference between IELTS and UKVI IELTS?
Ans. The difference between IELTS and UKVI IELTS is that the latter is specifically designed for individuals who need to provide proof of their English language ability for visa purposes to the UK. IELTS UKVI is for candidates who want to study in the UK at the undergraduate or postgraduate levels, as well as those who want to be registered as professionals in the UK. There are various forms of IELTS for UKVI for various objectives. You must register for either type, depending on your needs.
Ques. Can I take the UKVI IELTS test for general purposes?
Ans. Yes, you can take the UKVI IELTS test for general purposes, but it is primarily intended for those who require the test as part of their visa application to the UK. You know be aware that the Nursing and Midwifery Council and the General Medical Council in the United Kingdom both accept IELTS and IELTS for UKVI. As a result, doctors, dentists, nurses, and midwives can enter and register using either IELTS or IELTS for UKVI scores.
Ques. Can I use my regular IELTS score for my UK visa application?
Ans. No, regular IELTS scores cannot be used for UK visa applications. You must take the UKVI IELTS test and receive the required score for your visa application. The minimum IELTS UKVI score for colleges, universities or institutes of the UK for Undergraduate Level is 5.5 band scores and for Postgraduate Level 6.5 band scores.
Ques. What is the required score for UKVI IELTS?
And.The required score for UKVI IELTS depends on the visa category and the level of English language ability required for that visa. You should check the specific requirements for your visa application. The minimum IELTS UKVI score for colleges, universities or institutes of the UK for Undergraduate Level is 5.5 band scores and for Postgraduate Level 6.5 band scores.
Ques. How often can I take the UKVI IELTS test?
Ans. You can take the UKVI IELTS test as many times as you need to achieve the required score for your visa application. However, you must wait for a minimum of 3 months between tests.
Ques. Where can I take the UKVI IELTS test?
Ans. You can take the UKVI IELTS test at any of the approved test centers that offer this specific exam. You should check the availability of the exam in your region and register accordingly.
Ques. Is the format of the UKVI IELTS test different from the regular IELTS test?
Ans. No, the format of the UKVI IELTS test is the same as the regular IELTS test, but it is administered under more secure conditions to ensure the authenticity of the test results.
Ques. Is the IELTS for UKVI difficult?
Ans. Yes, The UKVI IELTS exam can be difficult. It assesses language proficiency at a high level. However, The UKVI IELTS is the same as the regular IELTS, which measures a candidate's English language proficiency in four sections: reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
Ques. What is 4.5 in UKVI IELTS?
Ans. Between IELTS bands 4 and 5, there is an IELTS band 4.5. With an IELTS band of 4, you are more at ease speaking with people in contexts you are familiar with and have a very basic understanding of the language. Using sophisticated terminology is challenging. You then have a restricted command of the language at an IELTS band 5.
Ques. What is the full form of UKVI?
Ans. United Kingdom Visas & Immigration (UKVI) is the full form of UKVI. General IELTS will no longer be accepted by UK universities and institutions. It is a Secure English Language Test (SELT) that has been certified by the UK government. As a result, IELTS can be used to demonstrate your English language skills in support of a UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI) application.
Ques. Is UKVI compulsory?
Ans. Yes, General IELTS will no longer be accepted by UK universities and institutions. It is a Secure English Language Test (SELT) that has been certified by the UK government. As a result, IELTS can be used to demonstrate your English language skills in support of a UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI) application.
*The article might have information for the previous academic years, which will be updated soon subject to the notification issued by the University/College.
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If you’re applying for a family of a settled person visa, an extension of a family of a settled person visa, or for indefinite leave to remain or citizenship, IELTS Life Skills is the test for you. IELTS Life Skills is a new test, approved by UKVI as a Secure English Language Test (SELT). It’s for people who need to show they have speaking and listening skills at Level A1, A2, or B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
IELTS for UKVI 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. The UKVI IELTS test is as hard as the standard IELTS test. It follows the same format and the same procedure; there is no difference in the level of difficulty.