The UK Home Office has updated its list of Secure English Language Tests (SELT) required for visa and citizenship applications, introducing new test options and clearer guidelines to streamline the process for applicants around the world.
SELTs are a compulsory component for individuals applying under various visa routes and for those seeking British citizenship.
The changes, officially published on the UK government website, are designed to enhance the accessibility and efficiency of the testing process.
One key update involves the LANGUAGECERT ESOL SELT 4-skills test, which is being replaced by two new test types: the LANGUAGECERT Academic SELT and the LANGUAGECERT General SELT.
According to the Home Office, applicants who have already taken the existing ESOL SELT will not be affected, as their results remain valid for two years from the date of issue. In addition, any vouchers already purchased for the older test can still be redeemed within 12 months.
The type of SELT required depends on the specific visa or immigration route. Applicants under routes such as the Skilled Worker, Health and Care Worker, Student, Innovator Founder, Scale-up Worker, High-Potential Individual, Minister of Religion, and Temporary Work (International Agreement) visas must complete a full 4-skills test that includes reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
By contrast, those applying for UK citizenship, settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain), partner or parent visas, International Sportsperson, or as a representative of an overseas business are only required to take a speaking and listening test.
The Home Office also reaffirmed that only SELTs taken with approved providers at officially recognised test centres will be accepted.
Tests must be taken within two years of the visa or citizenship application date. The list of authorised providers includes Pearson, Trinity College London, the IELTS SELT Consortium, PSI Services (Skills for English UKVI), and LANGUAGECERT.
In the UK, the test can be taken through Pearson, Trinity College London, IELTS SELT Consortium, or LANGUAGECERT. Outside the UK, Pearson, IELTS SELT Consortium, PSI Services (UKVI), and LANGUAGECERT remain the approved providers.
The booking process remains simple and is available through the providers’ official websites. Test appointments are generally available within 28 days, depending on location. Applicants are reminded that the details used to book the test must exactly match those on their identity documents.
Accepted forms of identification include a valid passport (most commonly used), a UK Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) or Biometric Residence Card (BRC), an EEA National ID (where applicable), or a government-issued photo ID for tests taken outside the UK. Emergency travel documents or photocopies are not accepted under any circumstances.
After completing the test, candidates will be issued a unique SELT reference number, which will be used to link their language test results directly to their visa or citizenship application.
