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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 & Immigration
(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 Office. 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
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.
Those who are applying for the Student route to a Highly Trusted Sponsor (HTS) to study a bachelor or postgraduate degree are required to meet the English language level set by the institution. All British universities and colleges accept IELTS results. This means that you do not need to take the IELTS test under UKVI specified condition unless your institution has required you to. Please visit here for more information.
From 23 April 2015, you will require results from an “IELTS for UKVI” test from one of the UKVI authorized test centres. You can take your IELTS for UKVI test at this test centre.
For IELTS for UKVI and IELTS Life Skills, the frequency varies by location. It’s best to check with IDP IELTS Auckland Test Centre when the next available test is. You can also check the booking calendar.
For IELTS test, there are no restrictions on retaking the test. For IELTS Life Skills, if you pass the test, you cannot retake it at the same level for a period of two years. If you do not pass it, there are no restrictions on retaking the test.
Separate sessions will be held for UKVI applicants. You must ensure you register for an “IELTS for UKVI” test date at IDP IELTS Auckland here.
The IELTS test for UK visa purposes is designed to meet certain administrative requirements that are specific to UK Visas and Immigration. Test Report Forms will be slightly different, to show that test takers have taken the test at an IELTS UK visa session.
There are no differences in the test format or questions. The actual test taken is the same – same content, examiners, format, level of difficulty, scoring and so on.
IELTS for UKVI is delivered on computer and is now available at a number of locations in the UK, China, Malaysia, Japan, India, Hong King, Brazil and Nigeria. Test takers who choose the new option will take their Listening, Reading and Writing components using a computer. The Speaking test will remain face to face.
