IELTS tests for UK Visas and Immigration

IELTS for UKVI tests are accepted by United Kingdom Visas and Immigration (UKVI) as proof of English if you want to live, work, or study in the UK.

The following tests are used by the UKVI:

Test Fee
IELTS for UKVI on computer or paper BWP 4020

The UKVI will only accept tests taken in person at an official IELTS for UKVI test centre, as UKVI requires an additional layer of security when taking language tests. 

In Botswana, we offer IELTS for UKVI in Gaborone.

Is there a difference in test format between IELTS and IELTS for UKVI?

IELTS and IELTS for UKVI are the same in terms of format, content, scoring and level of difficulty. However, the Test Report Form which contains your results is slightly different to show that you have taken the test at an official IELTS for UKVI location, which is approved by the UK Home Office.  

What score do I need for UKVI visa applications?

The score you will need for UKVI applications, known as the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) level, will depend on the visa you are applying for. 
(Visit GOV.UK for further guidance on proving your English language abilities.)

  • For visas that require CEFR level A1, you need to achieve a Pass in your IELTS for UKVI Life Skills A1 test (Listening and Speaking).
  • For visas that require CEFR level A2, you need to achieve a Pass in your IELTS for UKVI Life Skills A2 test (Listening and Speaking). This test is only available in the UK.
  • For visas that require CEFR level B1, you need to achieve a Pass in your IELTS for UKVI Life Skills B1 test (Listening and Speaking).
  • For visas that require CEFR level B1, you need to get at least an IELTS score of 4.0 in all four components of your IELTS for UKVI test (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking).
  • For visas that require CEFR level B2 you need to get at least an IELTS score of 5.5 in all four components of your IELTS for UKVI test (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking).
  • For visas that require CEFR level C1 you need to get at least an IELTS score of 7.0 in all four components of your IELTS for UKVI test (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking).

The UK government requires you to achieve the scores above in every component of your test. Understand your IELTS score and see how IELTS helps you to prepare

IELTS test requirements for UKVI visas

Live in the UK

British citizenship

  • Minimum CEFR level required: B1
  • Components: Listening and Speaking
  • Test and minimum scores required: IELTS for UKVI Life Skills B1 – Pass
  • GOV.UK: British citizenship overview

Family route

Indefinite leave to remain (UK family)

Family visa (extension)

  • Minimum CEFR level required: A2
  • Components: Listening and Speaking
  • Test and minimum scores required: IELTS for UKVI Life Skills A2 – Pass
  • GOV.UK: Family visa (extension) overview

Indefinite leave to remain

  • Minimum CEFR level required: B1
  • Components: Listening and Speaking
  • Test and minimum scores required: IELTS for UKVI Life Skills B1 – Pass
  • GOV.UK: Indefinite leave to remain overview

Work in the UK

Health and Care Worker visa

  • Minimum CEFR level required: B1
  • Components: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking
  • Test and minimum scores required: IELTS for UKVI – Must achieve a minimum of 4.0 in each of the four components
  • GOV.UK: Health and Care Worker visa overview

Innovator Founder visa

  • Minimum CEFR level required: B2
  • Components: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking
  • Test and minimum scores required: IELTS for UKVI – Must achieve a minimum of 5.5 in each of the four components
  • GOV.UK: Innovator Founder visa overview

International Sportsperson visa

Minister of Religion visa (T2)

  • Minimum CEFR level required: B2
  • Components: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking
  • Test and minimum scores required: IELTS for UKVI – Must achieve a minimum of 5.5 in each of the four components
  • GOV.UK: Minister of Religion visa (T2) overview

Representative of an Overseas Business visa

Skilled Worker visa

  • Minimum CEFR level required: B1
  • Components: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking
  • Test and minimum scores required: IELTS for UKVI – Must achieve a minimum score of 4.0 in each of the four components
  • GOV.UK: Skilled Worker visa overview

Study in the UK

If you're studying with a Higher Education Provider, please check the guidelines at GOV.UK: Student visa overview below.

Student visa

Below degree level

  • Minimum CEFR level required: B1
  • Components: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking
  • Test and minimum scores required: IELTS for UKVI – Must achieve a minimum of 4.0 in each of the four components
  • GOV.UK: Student visa overview

Degree level or above

  • Minimum CEFR level required: Equivalent to B2
  • Components: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking
  • Test and minimum scores required: IELTS or IELTS for UKVI – Must achieve a minimum of 5.5 in each of the four components
  • GOV.UK: Student visa overview

See also