What is the Secure English Language Test?
The Secure English Language Test (SELT) is a test approved by UK Visas and Immigration for Leave to Remain, British Citizen and Tier 1, 2 and 4 visa applications.
Different Types of SELT
- Graded Examinations in Spoken English
The Graded Examinations in Spoken English (GESE) exam tests the English speaking and listening skills of people whose first language is not English. They focus on building motivation and confidence in using English and enable students to chart their progress from beginner to proficiency.
The exams take the form of an unscripted conversation with an examiner, covering a range of topics and tasks. They are open to anyone aged 5 or older and are designed to be inclusive and relevant to every learner.
- Integrated Skills in English
Integrated Skills in English (ISE) is a four skills qualification intended for young people and adults - typically at school, college or university. It is also suitable for teachers who require a respected English language qualification.
ISE assesses students’ ability to interact in English in an authentic and meaningful way through the use of integrated reading and writing tasks and integrated speaking and listening tasks. Preparing for ISE builds real-life English skills and transferable skills required for academic study and employability.
Take the SELT
SELT is recognized at over 120 universities, colleges and language schools in the UK. Arrange a free consultation with us.
SELT exams for UK visa applications
Applicants may be required to take a 2-skills (Speaking & Listening) or 4-skills (Listening, Reading, Writing & Speaking) SELT exam. All SELT exams are delivered through a global network of SELT Centres.
The minimum Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) level required varies depending on visa type. Applicants with a higher language level can take an exam above the minimum requirement as long as it assesses the same skills that also satisfy the visa application.
Visa requirement information is subject to change. Applicants should refer to UK Government guidance on English language exams for visas and are responsible for ensuring they take the correct exam. Applicants applying for Study in the UK visas are advised to contact their sponsors to confirm which CEFR level they require before registering for an exam.
Below is a table outlining the minimum CEFR level and skills required for each visa type.
| Application type | Minimum CEFR level required for UK visa |
Minimum CEFR level required |
|
|---|---|---|---|
|
Further Leave to Remain:
|
A1 |
LanguageCert | PSI International ESOL SELT A1
|
|
|
Representative of an Overseas Business visa |
A1 |
LanguageCert | PSI International ESOL SELT A1
|
|
|
Sportsperson (long term) visa |
A1 |
LanguageCert | PSI International ESOL SELT A1
|
|
|
Further Leave to Remain (visa extension):
|
A2 |
LanguageCert | PSI International ESOL SELT A2
|
|
|
Indefinite Leave to Remain — ILR
|
B1 |
LanguageCert | PSI International ESOL SELT B1
|
|
|
British Citizenship (Naturalisation) |
B1 |
LanguageCert | PSI International ESOL SELT B1
|
|
|
Skilled Worker visa (this route replaces Tier 2 General) |
B1 |
LanguageCert | PSI International ESOL SELT B1
|
|
|
Skilled Work: Health and Care visa |
B1 |
LanguageCert | PSI International ESOL SELT B1
|
|
|
Ministers of Religion visa |
B2 |
LanguageCert | PSI International ESOL SELT B2
|
|
|
Innovator visa |
B2 |
LanguageCert | PSI International ESOL SELT B2
|
|
|
Start-up visa |
B2 |
LanguageCert | PSI International ESOL SELT B2
|
|
|
Student visa - below degree level |
B1 |
LanguageCert | PSI International ESOL SELT B1
|
|
|
Student visa - degree level and above |
B2 |
LanguageCert | PSI International ESOL SELT B2
|
|
Please note the following LanguageCert | PSI SELT exams may also be required by sponsors.
| Application type | Other accepted CEFR levels |
Skills required | LanguageCert SELT exam |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Student visa |
B2 |
LanguageCert | PSI International ESOL SELT B2
|
|
|
Student visa |
C1 |
LanguageCert | PSI International ESOL SELT C1
|
|
|
Student visa |
C2 |
LanguageCert | PSI International ESOL SELT C2
|
|
