On behalf of the British Council, we’re excited to announce important updates to the IELTS Test Report Forms (TRFs) for UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). Designed with candidates and students in mind, these enhancements offer precise insights to help support them in achieving their goals – using IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration.
What’s new in the IELTS for UKVI Test Report Forms
- Individual CEFR levels: The CEFR equivalent for each band score component (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking) will now be displayed individually, rather than only showing the CEFR level for the overall band score.
- Performance summary: A new section summarising the test taker’s performance has been added to assist UKVI with their internal processes.
- Relocated UKVI reference number: For easier navigation, the UKVI unique reference number is now at the bottom of the form.
Why British Council makes all these changes
These updates ensure that test takers have detailed insights into their English proficiency across all skills. This all to empower the candidate for better decision-making and enhancing the form’s utility for UKVI.
Applicability
These changes apply only to IELTS TRFs for UKVI tests. There are no changes to the TRFs for IELTS Academic or General Training.
The updated TRF format has been in effect from 29 August 2024. This applies to tests taken after this date and to any additional. Test takers who request additional or replacement TRFs after 29 August for tests taken before this date will also receive the updated version.
Will the changes affect the way IELTS scores are used or interpreted?
Rest assured, these changes do not affect the calculation, use, or interpretation of IELTS scores. They just simply provide more comprehensive information.
Some additional FAQs
Who takes IELTS for UKVI?
IELTS for UKVI is suitable for candidates intending to advance their visa applications to the United Kingdom. While British universities and colleges universally accept IELTS Academic results, specific UK organisations may have varying test requirements. Hence, it is crucial to verify your specific test needs with the relevant UK institutions you are applying to.
Why pursue UKVI tests?
IELTS for UKVI serves as a Secure English language test (SELT), officially approved by the UK Home Office for UK visa applications. These tests uphold the language requirements mandated for secure immigration.
Exam format
The exam format for IELTS for UKVI mirrors that of standard IELTS (including both IELTS Academic and General Training). The primary distinction is that the UKVI version incorporates video recording for additional security and authenticity.
- Check more detailed info about formats of IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training.
- Discover the specific UKVI score categories for your visa application by referring to authoritative sources.
- Find more information about IELTS band score.