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The UK has updated its list of approved Secure English Language Tests (SELT) for visa and citizenship applications starting January 2025. Find out which tests are accepted, who needs to take them, and how to book.
Exciting news for individuals planning their move to the United Kingdom! The UK Home Office has announced a significant update to the accepted Secure English Language Tests (SELT) as of April 2025.
This change aims to streamline the application process for UK visas and citizenship, offering more options and clarity for applicants worldwide. Read on to understand the key changes and how they impact your journey to the UK.
New SELT Tests Introduced
Beginning January 1, 2025, the existing LANGUAGECERT ESOL SELT 4-skills test will be replaced with two updated formats:
• LANGUAGECERT Academic SELT
• LANGUAGECERT General SELT
If you’ve already taken the old ESOL SELT test, don’t panic, your test results will remain valid for two years from the date of issue. Additionally, any vouchers purchased for the test can still be used for up to 12 months.
The UK Home Office continues to recognise SELTS from trusted providers, including:
• Pearson
• Trinity College London
• IELTS SELT Consortium
• PSI Services (Skills for English UKVI)
• LANGUAGECERT
Who Needs to Take a SELT Test?
Demonstrating English language proficiency through an SELT is a crucial requirement for several UK visa categories and citizenship applications. These categories are broadly divided into two groups based on the skills assessed:
Applicants Needing a Full 4-Skills Test (Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking):
• Skilled Worker Visa
• Health and Care Worker Visa
• Student Visa
• Start-up / Innovator Founder Visa
• Scale-up Worker Visa
• High-Potential Individual Visa
• Minister of Religion Visa
• Temporary Work (International Agreement route)
Applicants Needing Speaking and Listening Only:
• UK Citizenship
• Settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain)
• Partner / Parent Visa
• International Sportsperson Visa
• Representative of an Overseas Business
Where Can You Take the English Test?
The availability of SELT test centres varies depending on your location:
🇬🇧 Inside the UK
Approved test providers include:
• Pearson
• Trinity College London
• IELTS SELT Consortium
• LANGUAGECERT
🌍 Outside the UK
Your approved options are:
• Pearson
• IELTS SELT Consortium
• PSI Services (UKVI)
• LANGUAGECERT
⚠️ Make sure your test is:
• Taken at an approved test centre
• Listed on the UK Home Office’s official test list
• Completed within two years of your visa or settlement application
How to Book Your SELT Test in 2025
Booking is straightforward. Visit your preferred test provider’s website and follow the instructions to reserve your slot. Use the official UK government page for guidance:
• Test slots are usually available within 28 days, but this can vary by location.
• Your booking details must match your identity documents exactly.
Easier UK Visa With More SELT Options
This expanded SELT list gives UK visa and citizenship applicants more choices and more flexibility in 2025. Whether you’re a student, skilled worker, or applying for settlement, the updated test formats and trusted providers make it easier to meet English language requirements.
Source: https://travelobiz.com/uk-visa-citizenship-english-language-tests-2025-update/
