IELTS Test for UK Visas and Immigration: A Basic Guide

IELTS UKVI is an official UK government-approved English language test. This test is used in support of a UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI) application. So, the IELTS UKVI test is designed to meet specific administrative requirements outlined by the UK Home Office. This test can only be taken at a UKVI approved test centre.

IELTS UKVI is slightly different from the IELTS test, the test report will be distinctive from the IELTS test report to indicate that the test is taken at a UKVI approved test centre. However, the test format, level of difficulty and scoring is the same for IELTS UKVI and IELTS.

So if you are a test taker wanting to know more about this English proficiency test, then this article is for you. Read on to know the fundamentals of IELTS UKVI.

Types of IELTS UKVI

1. IELTS UKVI Academic

The IELTS UKVI Academic is ideal for test takers who are planning to pursue an undergraduate or postgraduate course in the UK. This test can also be taken by candidates looking for professional registration in the country. IELTS UKVI Academic test is a computer-based test and has dedicated test locations.

2. IELTS UKVI General Training

The IELTS UKVI General Training is ideal for test takers who are planning to migrate to the UK and pursue a course below degree level. IELTS General Training is a computer-based test and has dedicated test locations.

3. IELTS Life Skills A1

The IELTS Life Skills A1 test is for candidates who need to prove their English Listening and Speaking skills to obtain a UK visa for a Family, Representative of Foreign Businesses or Sportsperson.

4. IELTS Life Skills A2

The IELTS Life Skills A2 is for candidates who need to prove their Speaking and Listening skills as part of their application for UK visas for extension of Family. This test can only be taken in the United Kingdom and is within the CEFR.

5. IELTS Life Skills B1

The IELTS Life Skills B1 is for candidates who need to prove their English Speaking and Listening skills for immigration and citizenship. This visa is also known as an indefinite leave to stay visa.

IELTS UKVI Online Registration Process

Registration for IELTS UK Visa and Immigration can be done online from the official website or offline at the IELTS test centre.

For online registration, sign in to the official website and click on the IELTS UKVI test. Add all the necessary details and register. Pay the test fees online and complete the registration form. Download the application form and save it for future reference.

Ensure that you keep your valid ID Document with you while filling out the application form. This ID can be your National Identity Card or Passport Document. You will have to take the same ID on the test day.

This is all the necessary information that every UKVI IELTS test taker should be knowing. If you are planning to take this test, we would highly recommend you join IELTS coaching and prepare for this test under expert guidance.

Good Luck!