Understanding SELT exams is essential for anyone aiming to study, work, or settle in the UK. Securing a UK visa often hinges on your ability to prove your English proficiency. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about these exams, including their definition, types, required scores, fees, preparation tips and more.
What are SELT Exams?
Skills for English: SELT is a Secure English Language Test (SELT) recognised by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). It is designed for non-native speakers who must demonstrate their English language proficiency for visa purposes. The SELT English test is also accepted for university admissions and other official requirements in the UK, making it one of the most sought-after qualifications for prospective students and professionals alike.
SELT exams are mapped to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) levels, ranging from A1 (beginner) to C2 (proficient). Depending on your visa or academic needs, you may be required to prove only speaking and listening skills or all four skills (reading, writing, listening and speaking).
10 Reasons To Choose SELT
Opting for SELT brings a host of advantages that make it an excellent choice for visa applicants, students, and professionals aiming for the UK:
- Widespread Acceptance: Skills for English: SELT is officially approved by the UK Home Office and UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) for a variety of visa and immigration applications. This approval ensures that the test meets the rigorous standards required by immigration authorities, guaranteeing that your language proficiency evidence is accepted without issue.
- Extensive Global Reach: This test is available at over 130 Home Office-approved test centres worldwide, spanning more than 120 countries. This vast network makes it convenient and accessible to candidates wherever they are, removing travel barriers to taking the test.
- Efficient and Reliable Results: The SELT English exam is designed for efficiency, with most candidates receiving their results within 3 to 5 days. This quick turnaround is invaluable for applicants facing tight deadlines for visa applications.
- Tailored to Your Needs: The Skills for English test is aligned precisely with the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) levels, ensuring you only take the test level necessary for your visa or academic requirement—no more, no less. This focused approach helps reduce unnecessary stress and improves your chances of success.
- User-Friendly, Computer-Based Format: The test is predominantly computer-based, completed in a single session, and does not require the presence of an examiner during the reading and listening parts, which makes the process smoother and less intimidating.
- Fair and Transparent Scoring: The test employs an automated marking system for reading and listening, while professional assessors grade speaking and writing. This blend ensures consistent, impartial, and transparent scoring, reducing the risk of human bias.
- Practical, Real-Life Assessment: Tasks in the SELT test are crafted to reflect everyday English usage scenarios, such as conversations, work-related communication, and academic interactions, making it a practical demonstration of your English ability rather than a purely theoretical exam.
- Preparation Support and Flexibility: Skills for English offers free practice materials, diagnostic tests, and preparation resources, enabling candidates to practise effectively and approach test day with confidence. Moreover, the booking process is easy and can often be done online promptly with the option to reschedule if needed.
- Long Validity Period: A SELT result typically remains valid for up to two years, meaning that once you achieve the required score, it can support future visa applications without needing a retest.
- Recognition Beyond Visas: In addition to immigration, SELT scores are accepted by many educational institutions and some employers, offering the added advantage of fulfilling both visa and academic or professional English requirements with a single test.
Also read: English Language Assessment Test: Why Your Accent Isn’t a Problem
Understanding SELT Requirements Based on Your Visa Type
Not everyone applying for a UK visa is required to take a SELT English test. Understanding exactly when this test is mandatory can save time, money, and unnecessary preparation.
You Will Need a SELT English Test If:
- You Are Applying for a UK Visa from a Non-Majority English-speaking country:
Most applicants from countries not recognised by the UK Home Office as majority English-speaking (e.g., excluding the USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand) must prove their English proficiency by passing an approved Secure English Language Test (SELT).
- Your Course of Study Is Below Degree Level (Below NQF Level 6):
Students enrolling in further education, vocational courses, or foundation studies often need to provide SELT proof to demonstrate English competence for UK student visa applications.
- You Are Applying for Specific Visa Categories:
This includes work visas (such as Skilled Worker visas), family or spouse visas, visa extensions, or Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) applications. These visas often require passing a SELT at certain CEFR levels (A1 to B1), depending on visa type.
- You Need to Meet English Language Requirements for Citizenship or Settlement:
Citizenship or settlement routes typically require proof of English at B1 level (speaking and listening only), demonstrated through a Home Office-approved SELT exam.
You May Not Need to Take a SELT If:
- You Are From a Recognised Majority English-speaking country:
Nationals of the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, Ireland, New Zealand, and a few others typically do not need to take a SELT, as their countries are recognised for meeting English language requirements.
- Your Institution or Sponsor Can Assess Your English Language Ability for Degree-Level Courses (NQF Level 6 or Above):
Many higher education providers have the authority to verify applicants’ English skills through previous qualifications or institutional assessments, exempting the need for a SELT.
- You Hold Certain Qualifications That Meet the English Language Requirements:
For instance, completing relevant academic qualifications taught in English, or prior UK education could exempt you from needing to take a SELT.
Choosing the Right SELT Exam
The SELT English language test comes in different types corresponding to your specific visa or academic needs. The key differences concern the skills tested and the CEFR level required. Here’s what’s available:
| Exam Type | Skills Tested | Test Format | Typical Use Case |
| A1/A2 SELT | Speaking & Listening | Short online interview | Family/Spouse Visas |
| B1 SELT (2 skills) | Speaking & Listening | Short online interview | Skilled Worker, ILR, Citizenship |
| B1/B2/C1/C2 SELT (4 skills) | Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking | Computer-based; Reading and listening marked automatically, others by assessors | Study, Work, Residency |
Available SELT Test Centres
You can take the SELT English exam at Home Office-approved test centres located in over 130 countries worldwide, outside the UK. This extensive global network ensures you can usually find a centre that is convenient and accessible, reducing travel time and costs.
- SELT test centres are established across multiple continents, including Africa, Asia, Europe, North and South America, and Oceania.
- Common locations include major cities in India, Nigeria, South Africa, the UAE, China, Brazil, Canada, and many more.
- Centres operate as permanent venues with regular test sessions, often at least monthly, plus some “pop-up” centres that offer tests quarterly or biannually to meet regional demand.
Leading SELT Providers and Their Centres
The main providers offering Skills for English: SELT exams include:
- Skills for English (PSI)
- IELTS for UKVI (British Council and IDP)
- Pearson PTE Academic UKVI
- Trinity College London
- LanguageCert
Each provider runs its own network of approved test centres globally. For example, the British Council and IELTS SELT Consortium have permanent centres in cities like London, Delhi, Johannesburg, and Sydney, while PSI operates numerous centres spanning over 125 countries.
Online Booking and Test Availability
- Booking your SELT test is typically done online via each test provider’s official website or exclusive booking portals such as BookMySkillsForEnglish.com (for Skills for English).
- Test availability is generally high, even at short notice, thanks to large networks and frequent test dates.
- Some centres offer flexible rescheduling options, which are helpful if your visa application timeline changes.
Minimum Required SELT Scores (UKVI)
Required SELT exam scores depend on visa type, the CEFR level specified by UKVI, and sometimes your chosen institution’s preferences. Here’s a quick reference:
| Visa Category | CEFR Level | Minimum Score / Criteria |
| Family/Spouse Visa | A1 | Pass (usually 60/100 or 70%) |
| Family Visa Extension | A2 | Pass (usually 60/100 or 70%) |
| Skilled Worker | B1 | Pass in Speaking & Listening (B1) |
| Student (Below degree) | B1 | Pass in all 4 skills/sub-skill minimums |
| Student (Degree) | B2 | Pass in all 4 skills/sub-skill minimums |
| Citizenship/ILR | B1 | Pass in Speaking & Listening |
Be sure to confirm the specifics with your visa type and institution. For IELTS SELT, scores of 4.0 or above in each skill are typical for B1, with higher requirements for higher CEFR levels.
Also read: Difference Between IELTS Academic Vs General
SELT Exam Fees
SELT exam fees vary by provider and region. Here’s a summary of typical costs for the most popular SELT English exams in India and other regions for 2025:
| Provider | SELT Exam Fees (INR/GBP) |
| IELTS for UKVI | ₹18,250 / £155–£220 |
| PTE Academic UKVI | ₹17,999 – ₹18,250 |
| Trinity College London | £150 (B1 GESE); ₹2,842–₹11,366 |
| LanguageCert | ₹1,623–₹11,361 |
| Skills for English (PSI) | Varies by location & test type |
Note: Fees are subject to change, so always check with your chosen SELT test provider.
Step-by-Step Guide to Effective SELT Preparation
Achieving a strong result in your SELT English test depends not just on ability, but on well-planned preparation. Success comes from focusing your energy in the right areas, understanding the assessment style, and developing practical English skills for real-life scenarios.
- Understand the Specific Test Format
Begin by downloading the official guide and familiarising yourself with the sections, timing, and question styles for your specific SELT exam (such as speaking/listening only at A1/B1 or four skills for B2+). Carefully note the skills required for your visa—preparing for the relevant sections saves time and effort.
- Use Official Sample Papers and Specifications
Practise with up-to-date sample questions provided by your test centre. Simulating actual exam conditions gives you confidence and highlights areas for improvement.
- Regularly Take Timed Practice Tests
Free practice materials are available from many providers for B1 and above. Time yourself as you complete these; it trains you to work efficiently and calmly under exam settings.
- Routine Exposure to Real English
Go beyond books. Try watching English news, listening to radio shows and podcasts, or joining English conversation clubs. Applications like BBC Learning English or Duolingo can add variety to your practice.
- Focus on Real-Life English Topics
The SELT test typically covers day-to-day topics like hobbies, travel, family, work encounters, festivals, and news. Talk and write about your own experiences; this prepares you to respond authentically, not just correctly.
- Target All Four Skills Even if Not Required
If your test is only for speaking and listening, still practise reading and writing. These skills reinforce your overall language ability and support comprehension and vocabulary retention for the spoken tasks.
- Master the Marking Scheme
Study the band descriptors and marking criteria for your level. For instance, understand what “B1 speaking” or “B2 writing” actually mean in terms of accuracy, fluency, and range of vocabulary. Identify where you need to close the gap.
Taking the SELT English exam is a vital step for UK-bound students, professionals and families. By choosing the appropriate test, understanding the required scores and fees, and preparing well in advance, you significantly improve your chances of success. With resources available globally, support from providers, and accessible test centres, the SELT process is designed to be clear and supportive, so you can focus on showcasing your abilities and achieving your goals.
Get the correct guidance related to your SELT test with the help of UniScholars. Our counsellors are available to help you throughout the process, and solve any doubt related to the application process.
Also read: Everything You Need To Know About The UK Grading System
FAQs
Q. What are SELT exams, and why are they important?
Ans: SELT exams (Secure English Language Tests) are Home Office-approved English tests required to prove language proficiency for UK visas, study, and settlement.
Q. Do all UK visa applicants need to take a SELT exam?
Ans: Not everyone; applicants from the majority of English-speaking countries or those with approved qualifications may be exempt, depending on visa type.
Q. Which SELT test should I take for my UK visa application?
Ans: The test depends on your visa category and required CEFR level; options vary from A1/B1 speaking & listening tests to full four-skill exams at B2 and above.
Q. Where can I take a SELT English exam, and how do I book it?
Ans: SELT tests are available at approved centres in over 120 countries and can be booked online through official test providers, such as Skills for English, IELTS UKVI, and Pearson PTE.
Q. How can I prepare effectively for my SELT test to achieve the required score?
Ans: Follow official guidelines, complete diagnostic tests, practice all relevant skills at your CEFR level, and aim higher than the minimum required score for your visa.
1 thought on “Top PGDM Courses In Canada: Universities & Eligibility”
I have done Bachelor’s in Culinary Arts from India and completed my graduation in the year 2022 .I am 22 years old. After graduation, I have done 1 year paid internship from USA .Now, I would like to take occupational experience and learn culinary skills and also do masters in Culinary arts.How can I find the college n best course / country where I can persue studying further