What is IELTS UKVI?
When it comes to pursuing international academic or professional endeavors, the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) plays a significant role. It encompasses two main variations: IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training.
However, if your aspirations involve studying, working, or relocating to the United Kingdom, you must undertake a specialized version of the IELTS exam tailored for UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI) purposes, known as UKVI IELTS. This requirement applies to individuals originating from non-English speaking countries. For example, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka etc. It is important to note that educational institutions, colleges, and professional bodies exclusively recognize scores from IELTS for UKVI, and the standard IELTS test scores are not considered valid.
IELTS maintains its status as the language assessment endorsed by the UK government for visa-related matters.
While the content, structure, level of difficulty, and scoring system remain consistent, IELTS for UKVI adheres to additional security measures to ensure the authenticity of test-takers. Consequently, your Test Report Form (TRF) might exhibit slight differences compared to the regular IELTS TRF.
For those applying for the UK Tier 4 Student visa, it is imperative to satisfy the language prerequisites set forth by their respective universities or colleges. Others seeking guidance on the necessary scores to qualify can refer to the following table:
Visa Category Minimum CEFR Level Required Skills IELTS UKVI
Test and Minimum Required Scores (Overall and Per Skill)
- Tier 1 (General) – C1 Level in IELTS for UKVI – Overall 7.0, with at least 7.0 in each skill (Reading, Writing, Speaking, Listening)
- Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) – B1 Level in IELTS for UKVI – Overall 4.0, with at least 4.0 in each skill (Reading, Writing, Speaking, Listening)
- Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) B1 Level in IELTS for UKVI – Overall 4.0, with at least 4.0 in each skill (Reading, Writing, Speaking, Listening)
- Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur) B1 Level in IELTS for UKVI – Overall 4.0, with at least 4.0 in each skill (Reading, Writing, Speaking, Listening)
- Tier 2 (General) – Most Cases B1 Level in IELTS for UKVI – Overall 4.0, with at least 4.0 in each skill (Reading, Writing, Speaking, Listening)
- Tier 2 (Sportsperson) A1 Level in IELTS Life Skills at A1 – Pass IELTS for UKVI – Overall 4.0, with at least 4.0 in each skill (Reading, Writing, Speaking, Listening)
- Tier 2 (Minister of Religion) B2 Level in IELTS for UKVI – Overall 5.5, with at least 5.5 in each skill (Reading, Writing, Speaking, Listening)
- Tier 4 (General) Student – Below Degree Level and Pre-sessional Courses B1 Level in IELTS for UKVI – Overall 4.0, with at least 4.0 in each skill (Reading, Writing, Speaking, Listening)
- Tier 4 (General) Student – Degree Level and Above B2 Level in IELTS/IELTS for UKVI – Overall 5.5, with at least 5.5 in each skill (Reading, Writing, Speaking, Listening)
Family Route
Spouse/Partner
– Dependent Parent A1 Level in IELTS Life Skills at A1 – Pass IELTS for UKVI – Speaking and Listening 4.0
Family Route (Extension)
Spouse/Partner
– Dependent Parent A2 A1 Level in IELTS Life Skills at A2 – Pass IELTS for UKVI – Speaking and Listening 4.0
– Indefinite Leave to Remain (Settlement) or Citizenship B1 Speaking, Listening IELTS Life Skills at B1 – Pass IELTS UKVI – Speaking and Listening 4.0
UKVI IELTS Test Locations
Test centres for IELTS for UKVI are distributed across the nation, as designated by UKVI. It is essential to confirm during registration that you intend to utilize your test results for a UK visa application. Additionally, ensure that you choose an ‘IELTS for UKVI’ test session.
UKVI IELTS Test Fee
The fee structure for the tests is as follows:
- Test Type Test Fee*
- IELTS UKVI INR 16,500
- Life Skills INR 15,350
*Please note that IELTS fees are subject to change without prior notice.
For IELTS Classes in Surat Visit :
NovasasK Education and Immigration
#209-210, Mahek Icon, Nr. Sumul’s Master Chef,
Sumul Dairy Road, Surat-395003, Gujarat