UK Visa Applications Made Easier with New English Language Tests in 2025

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:

👉 Book a Secure English Language Test (SELT) – GOV.UK

• Test slots are usually available within 28 days, but this can vary by location.
• Your booking details must match your identity documents exactly.

Accepted ID Documents

❌ Emergency or photocopied documents are not accepted

After the Test: What Comes Next?

Once you pass, you’ll receive a unique SELT reference number. This number is vital — it’s used to link your test result to your visa or citizenship application.

Here’s what the reference looks like by provider:

No need to send physical certificates — the UK Home Office verifies results directly using these codes.

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.

Pro tip: Book early, ensure your ID matches your application, and choose the correct test based on your visa route.