Examination for Obtaining an English Language Certificate

Examination for Obtaining an English Language Certificate

In order to work or study in the United Kingdom, it is necessary to apply for a visa and submit documents, including a certificate confirming proficiency in English. This can be obtained by successfully passing an English language test approved by the Home Office. This test is known as the Secure English Language Test (SELT). Among the formats distinguished are: IELTS for UKVI (either Academic or General Training modules) or IELTS Life Skills.

Difference between test formats

There is no difference between the test formats for IELTS (Academic or General Training modules) and IELTS for UKVI (Academic or General Training modules). The content, format, level of difficulty, and assessment of both tests are absolutely identical. However, the test report forms, which present the results, have a slight difference indicating that the test was taken at an institution that has received official approval from the UK Home Office to conduct IELTS tests for UKVI.

Approved UKVI test centers administer IELTS tests for UKVI (Academic or General Training modules), as well as IELTS Life Skills. Such test centers are available worldwide. When registering for the test, candidates have the option to choose either a paper-based or computer-based IELTS test. Both formats consist of four components: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. The first three modules (listening, reading, and writing) are always conducted on the same day. The speaking module may be on the same day or within seven days before or after the completion of the other three modules. The entire test lasts 2 hours and 44 minutes.

How to choose the test format?

Before registering, it is important to determine which test is mandatory for your educational institution. If a person wishes to obtain a Tier 4 student visa for undergraduate or postgraduate study at a university that sponsors Tier 4 visas, their English proficiency level must meet the institution's requirements.

The results of the IELTS Academic test are accepted by all universities and colleges in the UK. Therefore, it may not be necessary to take the IELTS for UKVI (Academic) format, and instead, the results of the academic IELTS test can be submitted.

If the test is not taken for educational purposes, it is mandatory to find out about the specific test format required by the organizations to which the application is submitted. However, generally, for employment, IELTS for UKVI (General) is required.

Other English language tests

In addition to IELTS, there are other tests that may be relevant to an individual depending on their specific situation:

Cambridge exams. This is a challenge that not every candidate can overcome. It is extremely important for individuals to have a high level of English proficiency that meets the necessary requirements for obtaining a diploma from Cambridge. In case the candidate does not achieve the required scores for the desired level, they will be issued a certificate of a lower level, such as B2 instead of the desired C1.

The Cambridge exams are divided into types, namely KET, PET, FCE, CAE, CPE. The exam focuses on the practical application of the English language.

Improving one's skills in this way is crucial for development in an English-speaking environment.

The first day of the exam includes reading, writing, and listening, with each part lasting approximately 1-2 hours. The following day, the Speaking section takes place, a short 15-minute session conducted with other students.

If relocation to the UK for work is planned, it is worth focusing on the Cambridge exams. These exams can also open doors to universities and employment opportunities. It is important to note that the exam does not expire.

For English language teachers who aspire to gain significant advantage in this field or want to teach abroad, the CELTA, DELTA, and TKT exams allow them to do so without taking the IELTS test. These certificates confirm the teacher's qualification and have a strong impact on their professional value.

The CELTA certificate is an entry-level qualification, while the DELTA course is specifically designed for teachers with significant experience (minimum 2 years of teaching experience). The TKT format is available for teachers of all levels and provides a comprehensive assessment of their teaching methodology. The main focus is on teacher qualification and assessment of their suitability for the profession. After such courses, teachers can work in various countries, including the UK. The validity period is indefinite.

Lawyers working on the legal marketplace "Consultant" can assist in choosing an English language test for relocation to the UK by advising on requirements and options that suit the specific situation. They can provide information about various tests, their requirements, and purposes so that you can make an informed and correct choice. In addition, a lawyer can assist with the organization and preparation of the necessary documents for taking the test.