The UK Home Office has revised its list of Secure English Language Tests (SELTs) required for visa and citizenship applications, introducing new test formats and clarifying global testing standards to enhance the application experience for migrants and foreign nationals.
In a move aimed at simplifying the visa process, the update includes the replacement of the existing LANGUAGECERT ESOL SELT 4-skills test with two newly approved versions. According to the Home Office, results from the current test will remain valid for two years, while any previously issued unused vouchers will continue to be honoured for 12 months.
Visa-Specific Requirements
The requirements differ depending on the visa category. Applicants must take either a 4-skills test (covering reading, writing, listening, and speaking) or a speaking-and-listening-only test, depending on the application type.
4-Skills Test Required For:
- 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)
Speaking and Listening Only Required For:
- UK Citizenship
- Settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain)
- Partner / Parent Visa
- International Sportsperson Visa
- Representative of an Overseas Business
Approved SELT Providers:
Applicants must book their tests through one of the following UK government-approved providers:
- Pearson
- Trinity College London
- IELTS SELT Consortium
- PSI Services (Skills for English UKVI)
- LANGUAGECERT
Where You Can Take the Test:
In the UK, Pearson, Trinity College London, IELTS SELT Consortium, and LANGUAGECERT operate test centres. International applicants can access overseas test centres through Pearson, IELTS SELT Consortium, PSI Services, and LANGUAGECERT.
Booking Guidelines:
Tests can be scheduled directly through provider websites, typically with availability within 28 days. Applicants are advised to ensure that booking information exactly matches the identification documents they present on test day.
Accepted ID Documents:
- Passport
- UK Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) or Card (BRC)
- EEA National ID (where applicable)
- Government-issued photo ID (non-UK applicants only)
Important Note: Photocopies, emergency travel documents, or expired IDs are not accepted under any circumstances.
After taking the test, candidates receive a unique SELT reference number, which links their test results to their UK visa or citizenship application.
These updates are part of the UK government’s continued effort to modernise and standardise the migration process while upholding rigorous language standards for entry and settlement.
