02/10/2026
Which English test do you need for a UK visa?
Choosing an approved provider is not enough. The same provider may offer several different examinations, and not every version will meet the requirements of your immigration route.
Before booking, you need to confirm:
• your visa route
• the required CEFR level
• whether two or four language skills are assessed
• the exact approved test version
• whether you are taking the test in or outside the UK
You may not need to take a test if you can use an eligible qualification, previously accepted evidence or an exemption. An overseas degree taught in English may need to be assessed by Ecctis.
Partner or parent family visa
For a first partner or parent application, the requirement is normally A1 in Speaking and Listening.
For an extension after 2.5 years, A2 in Speaking and Listening is required if A1 was used for the first application.
For many settlement routes and British citizenship
For many settlement routes applications made before 26 March 2027, the current requirement is B1 in Speaking and Listening.
For many settlement routes applications made on or after 26 March 2027, the requirement increases to B2.
The Life in the UK Test is also required.
For British citizenship, the current English requirement is B1 in Speaking and Listening or higher, together with the Life in the UK Test.
Work visas
Most new Skilled Worker and Health and Care Worker applications require B2 in Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening.
Transitional B1 rules may apply if the visa was held before 8 January 2026.
Some regulated professions have separate English requirements. For certain doctors, dentists, nurses and midwives, an English assessment accepted by the relevant professional body may also satisfy the visa requirement.
Student visa
Courses below degree level normally require B1 in all four skills.
Courses at degree level or above normally require B2 in all four skills.
However, a university, individual course or professional regulator may set a higher or different English requirement, particularly for Law, Medicine, Nursing, Teaching and other language-intensive or regulated routes.
Approved SELT providers
If you are taking the test in the UK:
• Trinity College London
• IELTS SELT Consortium
• LANGUAGECERT
• Pearson
If you are taking the test outside the UK:
• PSI Services (UK) Ltd
• IELTS SELT Consortium
• LANGUAGECERT
• Pearson
The provider’s name alone is not enough. You must choose the correct approved test, CEFR level, number of skills and test location for your route.
This information is correct at the time of publication in October 2026. Immigration rules can change, so always check the latest GOV.UK guidance before choosing a visa route, applying for a visa or booking an examination.
Mug.Up provides preparation for all approved English language examinations and is an official LanguageCert SELT Examinations Registration Centre.
Preparing for a UK visa English test? Message Mug.Up with the word “VISA”.
