UKVI IELTS: Meaning, Fees, Score Requirements

IELTS for UKVI is a special type of IELTS exam that is approved by the UK government. It is needed if you are planning to study, work, or live in the UK. This test is called a Secure English Language Test (SELT) and is accepted by the UK Home Office for visa purposes. The regular IELTS test will not be accepted at UK universities and colleges anymore.

The IELTS for UKVI (International English Language Testing System for UK Visas and Immigration) is a specialised version of the IELTS test designed to meet the specific requirements set by the UK government for visa applications. This test is crucial for individuals looking to live, work, or study in the UK, as it serves as proof of English language proficiency.

IELTS for UKVI is almost the same as the regular IELTS exam. The test also checks your English language skills, Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. But the only main difference is that it is conducted with extra security, and you get a special Test Report Form (TRF) with a SELT Reference Number, which is used by the UK government for visa processing.

This IELTS UKVI test is for test takers wishing to study in the UK at undergraduate or postgraduate levels and for those seeking professional registration in the UK. It is available only at those test centres that meet the administrative requirements outlined by the UK Home Office. The IELTS UKVI fees in India are INR 18,250. The cost of the test is the same for IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration. Check details on IELTS UKVI exam type, fees, differences, and more. 

Types of IELTS for UKVI Tests

Before booking, check the test you need and the level you need to achieve: the UK Visas and Immigration website.

IELTS for UKVI Fee

The fee of IELTS UKVI is different from that of general IELTS.

UKVI IELTS Score Requirements (by Visa Type)

The IELTS UKVI score requirements vary depending on the UK visa category you are applying for, as defined by the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) levels:

• CEFR Level A1: Pass in IELTS for UKVI Life Skills A1 (Listening and Speaking).
• CEFR Level A2: Pass in IELTS for UKVI Life Skills A2 (Listening and Speaking).
• CEFR Level B1:
• Pass in IELTS for UKVI Life Skills B1 (Listening and Speaking).
• Minimum score of 4.0 in all four components of the standard IELTS for UKVI test.
• CEFR Level B2: Minimum score of 5.5 in all four components (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking).
• CEFR Level C1: Minimum score of 7.0 in all four components (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking).

Who Should Take IELTS for UKVI?

IELTS for UKVI is for people who want to study, work, or settle in the UK and need to prove their English language skills for a UK visa application. It is an approved Secure English Language Test (SELT) by the UK Home Office.

You should take IELTS for UKVI if:

• You want to study in the UK at an undergraduate or postgraduate level.
• You are applying for UK skilled worker visa or migration to the UK.
• You want to apply for a family visa, citizenship, or indefinite leave to remain in the UK.
• Your university or college in the UK tells you to submit IELTS for UKVI and not the regular IELTS.

This test helps the UK government check if your English is good enough to live or study in the country.

How to Book IELTS for UKVI Test in India?

You can book IELTS for UKVI in India online through IDP India, which is the official and only conducting body in India.

Steps to book IELTS for UKVI:

1. Go to the official website of IDP IELTS India.
2. Click on the ‘Book Now’
3. Choose the "IELTS for UKVI" test option.
4. Select the test type (Academic, General Training, Life Skills A1 or B1).
5. Pick a test date and a test centre from the available list.
6. Fill in your personal and passport details.
7. Upload a clear scanned copy of your passport.
8. Pay the test fee online (INR 18,250 for IELTS for UKVI in 2025).
9. You’ll receive a confirmation email with your test details and instructions.

Make sure to book the correct version of the test depending on whether you are applying for study, work or visa purposes. Check how to register for the IELTS exam. 

IELTS for UKVI Test Centres in India

IELTS for UKVI is not available in all test centres. It is only available at UKVI-approved test centres that follow extra security rules as per the UK Home Office. Only IDP India conducts the IELTS for UKVI tests across India.

Difference Between IELTS and IELTS for UKVI

The IELTS and IELTS for UKVI are both English language proficiency tests, but they serve different purposes and have specific requirements. Here’s a detailed comparison of the two, IELTS and IELTS for UKVI:

Test Format and Content

• IELTS: The standard IELTS test assesses four language skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. It is available in two formats: Academic and General Training.

• IELTS for UKVI: This version is specifically designed for individuals applying for visas to live, work, or study in the UK. While the test format, content, scoring, and level of difficulty are the same as the standard IELTS, the Test Report Form (TRF) is different. It indicates that the test was taken at an official IELTS for UKVI location approved by the UK Home Office. 

Acceptance

• IELTS: Accepted by educational institutions, employers, and governments worldwide.

• IELTS for UKVI: Accepted specifically by the UK government for visa applications. It is mandatory for certain visa categories.

Security Measures

• IELTS: Conducted in various test centers worldwide with standard security protocols.

• IELTS for UKVI: Requires additional security measures due to its use in visa applications. Tests must be taken in person at an official IELTS for UKVI test centre.