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IELTS test for UK Visas and Immigration

If you make a visa application to stay or move to the UK, you need to be aware of changes made by the United Kingdom Visas & Immigrationexternal icon (UKVI). If you’re applying for Tier 1 and Tier 2 visas to the UK, this is the test for you.

IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training for UKVI are designed to meet certain administrative requirements that are specified by the UK Home Officeexternal icon. The actual test taken is the same as IELTS (for all other purposes), same content, examiners, format, level of difficulty, scoring and so on. The difference is in the test taker journey on the test day. Test Report Forms will be slightly different, to show that you have taken the test at an IELTS UK visa session. Please note that UKVI IELTS test in New Zealand is now computer-delivered.

Register for UKVI IELTS

  • If you need an IELTS test for UK visa applications
  • UKVI IELTS test in New Zealand is now computer-delivered
  • IDP IELTS Auckland is the only UKVI approved test centre in New Zealand.

Frequently asked questions

Frequently asked questions

Which IELTS test do I need for a UK visa application?

If you are applying for a UK visa, there is an IELTS test for you.


For visa applications to the UK, you may need to have an English language qualification. IELTS and IELTS Life Skills are included on both the UK Home Office’s list of Secure English Language Tests (referred to as SELT tests by UK Home Office) and the OFQUAL register.


It is recommended you check all visa requirement information directly with the UK government website.


To find out whether you need to take an approved test, what level you need to achieve, and which test you can use, you should contact UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). For more information, please visit here.