Well, you’ve taken the leap and decided to head to the UK to study, work, or perhaps start a fresh new life. Wait, though - before you go dreaming of drinking tea in the drizzly afternoons along the streets of London, there is one hurdle you have to overcome: the UKVI IELTS test.
Now, you may be saying, “Great, another test to worry about!” But don’t worry - this blog here, it is here to simplify it all for you in a way that makes sense, and hopefully doesn’t put you to sleep.
What is UKVI IELTS
Ok, let’s cut to the chase and answer the million dollar question, what exactly is UKVI IELTS? Essentially, it is the VVIP version of the standard IELTS test - specially endorsed by the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), it’s right there in the name. It’s neither more difficult nor easier than your standard IELTS exam, it only has added layers of security simply because the UK Government needs to ensure that your test results are genuine.
So, if you were curious and asking yourself “What is UKVI IELTS?” “Is it some hidden elite test?” The answer is nope - it’s simply an IELTS test with additional rules to make everything official as it's the key for many emigrants to get into the UK.
Difference Between UKVI IELTS and IELTS
If you’re thinking “that can’t be right, there has to be more to this than added security?”, don’t worry, you’re not the only one, but as stated before, that’s all the difference between UKVI IELTS and IELTS simply is, additional security hoops to jump through. Want to know the exact deets? Well, here’s the scoop:
Purpose: UKVI IELTS is only of use for UK Visa Applications. General IELTS is for general studies or employment purposes anywhere in the world.
Security: UKVI IELTS test locations have video recording and additional ID Verification to avoid fraud.
Approval: UKVI IELTS is the one that UK Visas and Immigration approves. General IELTS may not always be acceptable for visa applications.
Who Needs to Take UKVI IELTS?
If your dream is to move to the UK for study, work, or family purposes, then you likely require UKVI IELTS, specifically if you’re:
- A Student (Particularly if your course is sub-degree level)
- A Skilled Worker (the UK adores its clever workforce!)
- Anyone seeking UK settlement or citizenship
If this sounds like you, hooray - welcome to the UKVI IELTS club!
Types of UKVI IELTS Tests
Now, don’t freak out and think you’re enrolling in a one-size-fits all horror show. There are various UKVI IELTS tests, depending on your purpose for moving to the UK:
- IELTS for UKVI Academic: If you’re looking to enroll in a UK university, this is the exam for you.
- IELTS for UKVI General Training: This is the exam to take for work, training or immigration purposes.
- IELTS for UKVI Life Skills(A1,A2,B1): This is the exam for specific visa categories like family visas or citizenship applications.
Test Format & Structure
Good news! UKVI IELTS has the same format as good old regular IELTS, so no surprises there.
- Listening: Listen to 30 minutes of non-stop accents from around the English-speaking world. Get ready for some Australian, British and maybe even a bit of American twang!
- Reading: Academic and General Training formats are different, but both involve lots of understanding and analysis.
- Writing: Academic people do essays and reports; General training people do letters and essays.
- Speaking: One-to-one face-to-face interview where you converse with an interviewer after dealing with a machine for the past 3 tests.
Required Scores for UKVI IELTS
Similar to normal IELTS, UKVI IELTS results vary from 1 to 9, where scoring a 9 means you’re essentially an English-speaking wizard. Depending on your visa type, the required score varies from case to case. A brief overview of the same is:
- n each of the four sections.
- International Sportsperson Visa: Requires a minimum CEFR level of A1 and a pass in IELTS for UKVI Life Skills A1 in Listening and Speaking.
- Minister of Religion Visa (T2): Requires a minimum CEFR level of B2 and a minimum score of 5.5 in each of the four sections.
- Representative of an Overseas Business Visa: Requires a minimum CEFR level of A1 and a pass in IELTS for UKVI Life Skills A1 in Listening and Speaking.
- Skilled Worker Visa: Requires a minimum CEFR level of B1 and a minimum score of 4.0 in each of the four sections.
Immigration Visa
- British Citizenship: Requires a minimum CEFR level of B1 and a pass in IELTS for UKVI Life Skills B1 in Listening and Speaking.
- Family Route: Requires a minimum CEFR level of A1 and a pass in IELTS for UKVI Life Skills A1 in Listening and Speaking.
- Family Visa (Extension): Requires a minimum CEFR level of A2 and a pass in IELTS for UKVI Life Skills A2 in Listening and Speaking.
Indefinite Leave to Remain: Requires a minimum CEFR level of B1 and a pass in IELTS for UKVI Life Skills B1 in Listening and Speaking.
How to Book the UKVI IELTS Test
Booking is straightforward! You may register online through:
UKVI IELTS Fees
Here’s the bit nobody loves - discussing fees. UKVI IELTS costs a lot but it is required:
- IELTS for UKVI (Academic/General Training): Approximately ₹18,250 for both computer-delivered and pen-and-paper based versions.
- IELTS Life Skill: Approximately ₹17,000 for both computer-delivered and pen-and-paper based versions.
Preparation Tips for UKVI IELTS
Want to get top marks in this test? Here are some sound tips:
- Use authentic IELTS for UKVI practice materials.
- Mock tests - the more you practice, the better.
- Work on time management - don’t take 10 minutes to answer a question.
- Develop your speaking skills - speak to yourself if necessary, just perhaps not on the street
Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
Even the best of us make mistakes. Here’s what to avoid:
- Listening: Missing key words. Solutions? Practice listening for various accents.
- Speaking: One-word answers aren’t going to do it. Talk in whole sentences!
Writing: Get your thoughts together - messy essays = lower grades.
What to do After the Exam?
The results for the UKVI IELTS are released within 13 days for pen-and-paper based tests and 3 to 5 days for computer delivered tests. Don’t cry if you don’t meet the necessary score - you can just take the test again. There’s no limit to how many times you can take the IELTS test, but remember, the scores are valid only for two years.
FAQs
Q. What does UKVI IELTS mean?
UKVI IELTS is just an IELTS test that is endorsed by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) for visa requirements.
Q. What does IELTS stand for?
IELTS stands for International English Language Testing System.
Q.When are UKVI IELTS test dates?
Dates vary - take a look on the British Council or IDP websites for updates on availability.
Q. What is UKVI IELTS fees?
The fees range from ₹17,000 to ₹18,250 depending on your test.
Q.What’s the difference between General IELTS and Academic IELTS?
Academic IELTS is for University Admission while General Training IELTS is for work and immigration.
