IELTS tests for UK Visas and Immigration
IELTS for UKVI tests are accepted by United Kingdom Visas and Immigration (UKVI) as proof of English if you want to live, work, or study in the UK.
The following tests are used by the UKVI:
| Test |
| IELTS for UKVI on computer or paper |
| IELTS for UKVI Life Skills A1 and B1 |
UKVI will only accept tests taken in person at an official IELTS for UKVI test centre, as UKVI requires an additional layer of security when taking language tests.
We no longer offer IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) tests. Please check on takeielts.org for test dates in your region.
What score do I need for UKVI visa applications?
The score you will need for UKVI applications, known as the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) level, will depend on the visa you are applying for.
(Visit GOV.UK for further guidance on proving your English language abilities.)
- For visas that require CEFR level A1, you need to achieve a Pass in your IELTS for UKVI Life Skills A1 test (Listening and Speaking).
- For visas that require CEFR level A2, you need to achieve a Pass in your IELTS for UKVI Life Skills A2 test (Listening and Speaking).
- For visas that require CEFR level B1 in two skills, you need to achieve a Pass in your IELTS for UKVI Life Skills B1 test (Listening and Speaking).
- For visas that require CEFR level B1 in four skills, you need to get at least an IELTS score of 4.0 in all four components of your IELTS for UKVI test (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking).
- For visas that require CEFR level B2 you need to get at least an IELTS score of 5.5 in all four components of your IELTS for UKVI test (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking).
- For visas that require CEFR level C1 you need to get at least an IELTS score of 7.0 in all four components of your IELTS for UKVI test (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking).
The UK government requires you to achieve the scores above in every component of your test. Understand your IELTS score and see how IELTS helps you to prepare.
IELTS test requirements for UKVI visas
Information shared on this web page is collated from the government website and is correct at the time of publication. To confirm your requirements, please refer to the government website or your receiving organisation.