English requirements vary by visa route and application type. Some applicants may need to prove English at B2 level through an approved Secure English Language Test (SELT), while others may already meet the requirement through a previous application, qualification, or professional registration.
CEFR Language Scale
We help you understand your situation, not make assumptions for you
We help you understand what level and test route may apply to your situation, but you should always verify the latest official guidance before booking. English requirements can change, and your specific visa route, history, and circumstances all matter.
If you're changing employer, role, or visa category, you may need to demonstrate English at a specified level as part of your new application.
Start Free Readiness Test →Visa renewals and settlement applications often have tight timelines. Structured preparation helps you reach the required level before your window closes.
Start Free Readiness Test →Not every approved test suits every visa route. Take the free diagnostic and we'll help you understand your options based on your situation.
Start Free Readiness Test →The right test depends on your visa route and the official requirements in force when you apply.
Trinity ISE II B2
A B2 integrated-skills SELT covering reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Accepted for many UK visa routes.
LANGUAGECERT General SELT
UKVI-approved 4-skill SELT for UK immigration. The General SELT replaced the previous ESOLSELT format from July 2025.
PTE Academic UKVI
Computer-based 4-skill SELT from Pearson, fully approved for UK visa and immigration routes.
Always confirm your exact test and level using the latest GOV.UK guidance before booking. Check the official GOV.UK SELT guidance →
English requirements differ depending on the route you are applying under. Here are the most common routes our students prepare for.
Skilled Worker Visa
Many Skilled Worker applicants are required to demonstrate English at B1 or B2 level through an approved SELT, depending on the role and whether an exemption applies.
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
ILR applicants typically need to demonstrate English at B1 level. Some routes require a SELT; others accept alternative evidence such as a degree taught in English.
Family Visa
Partners and family members applying to join someone in the UK may need to meet an English requirement at A1 or A2 level, rising at different stages of the route.
Other routes
Graduate, Health and Care Worker, and other visa categories each have their own English requirements. Always check the specific rules for your route before booking.
Requirements vary and can change. This is a general overview only, not immigration advice. Check your specific route on GOV.UK →
The list of approved Secure English Language Tests (SELTs) accepted for UK visa applications is maintained by the Home Office and is subject to periodic review. Tests can be added, removed, or have their accepted level ranges updated.
Test providers can lose or gain approved status
Only tests from currently approved SELT providers are accepted. A test taken with a provider that is later removed from the approved list may not be valid. Always confirm your provider is currently approved before booking.
Results have a limited validity period
SELT results are typically valid for two years from the date of the test. If your result expires before your application is submitted, you may need to sit the test again.
Rules can change between booking and applying
Immigration policy and English language requirements can change. What was correct when you started preparing may have been updated by the time you apply. Always re-check GOV.UK guidance close to your application date.
ClearPass prepares you for the skills the tests assess. We do not monitor policy on your behalf. Check approved SELTs on GOV.UK →
The following is based on GOV.UK guidance last updated 30 March 2026. Requirements can change; always confirm using the official guidance before booking.
LanguageCert test change: 6 July 2025
From 6 July 2025, the LanguageCert ESOLSELT 4-skills test was replaced by two new tests: LanguageCert Academic SELT and LanguageCert General SELT. If you already hold an ESOLSELT 4-skills result, it remains valid for 2 years from the date it was awarded.
Results are valid for 2 years
Your SELT result must have been awarded within the 2 years before the date of your application. If your result expires before you apply, you will need to re-sit the test. Plan your preparation and test date accordingly.
4-skills (reading, writing, speaking, listening) or speaking & listening
Book on provider site4-skills or speaking & listening
From 6 July 2025, the previous ESOLSELT 4-skills test was replaced by Academic SELT and General SELT. Results taken before this date remain valid for 2 years.
Book on provider site4-skills or speaking only
Book on provider sitePSI Services (UK) Ltd (Skills for English UKVI) is approved for applicants outside the UK only.
The CEFR level you need depends on your visa route. This table is a general guide; always check your specific route guidance on GOV.UK.
| Visa route | CEFR level |
|---|---|
| Skilled Worker | B1 or B2 |
| Health and Care Worker | B1 or B2 |
| Settlement (ILR) | B1 |
| Family Visa (partner/parent) | A1 → A2 → B1 |
| Citizenship | B1 |
| Student / Other routes | Varies (A1–C1) |
This table is for general guidance only and may not reflect the most recent policy updates. Always confirm your exact level and test requirements using the official GOV.UK SELT guidance →
ClearPass offers mock tests and coaching for IELTS Academic and the most popular UK visa English exams. Choose your exam to see what we offer.
Full 4-skill Academic mock: Listening, Reading, Writing & Speaking: with band score estimates.
4-skill integrated exam: reading, writing, speaking & listening.
Approved 4-skill SELT for UK visa and immigration applications.
Computer-based 4-skill SELT, fully approved for UK visa routes.
Not sure which exam? Take the free diagnostic →
ClearPass is built around today's UK visa English requirements while keeping an eye on possible future changes in the English testing landscape.
Our coaching focuses on the underlying skills that matter across approved English test pathways. Whatever upcoming landscape changes may bring, strong reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills remain the foundation. We support students preparing for current approved test routes and are developing preparation pathways for possible future requirements.
Structured coaching for today's UK visa English test requirements, with private lessons and mock exam practice.
We are monitoring possible developments in UK visa English testing so we can prepare students for whatever comes next, without making assumptions about unconfirmed changes.
Complete your programme and still don't feel ready before your test? Speak to us. We'll give you extra support at no extra cost to help you get there.
Every programme is structured, personalised, and built around your level, your test route, and your timeline. We focus on giving you the highest-quality preparation possible.
View PlansEvery programme is built around your level, your test route, and your timeline: never a generic course.
You get direct feedback from your coach after every session and mock test, with clear guidance on what to focus on next.
Weekly sessions, homework review, and WhatsApp support keep you on track between lessons and building momentum.
ClearPass English provides test preparation coaching. We do not provide immigration legal advice and do not guarantee visa or exam outcomes.