Latest Changes for UK Student Visa in UK Visas and immigration
Planning to move to UK? Do you know the latest changes made by UK Visas and immigration? If not exactly, then you must endure the information given below.
Recently, on 20th Feb 2015, UK Govt made some crucial changes to Secure English Language Test (SELT) for Visa purposes. A new test has been introduced, as a conclusion of the change, named as IELTS Life skills test. It is used to meet the criteria of UK visas and immigration. From now onwards, all those who wish to move to UK for study or stay have to pass this test in addition to existing tests. Before getting registered for the test, you can look into the English language obligations for your visa category.
What are the advancements?
Earlier when you applied for visa to UK, you need to pass only two tests- IELTS General and Academic. But now you have to crack IELTS Life Skills test as well to get eligible to enter into the country. IELTS Life Skills test is used to examine both listening and speaking skills of the candidate at A1 and B1 levels of Common European Framework of reference(CEFR). This single test will analyze both speaking and listening skills of the candidate.
IELTS tests for UKVI (UK Visa and Immigration) are governed by IELTS SELT Consortium which includes British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia and Cambridge English Language Assessment.
When this test came into existence?
Test changes were actually adopted on 6th April 2015. As to follow this upheaval, UK government stated that the results of the IELTS test, taken on or before 22 April, will be accepted. So the candidate can present their IELTS results to UKVI if they fall under the following categories:
- Visa application allows to send results of SELT
- IELTS test was taken on or before 22 April, 2015
- Appeared in the IELTS test at any of the 1000 pre decided locations around the world
- Submit application before 5 November,2015
Is there any change in Qualification requirement?
No, the changes do not affect your entrance on the basis of qualification. Whether you enter directly a degree level or you approach for a higher level, you will be considered equal. However, higher education institutions choose their own criteria to test the English language of the candidates. On the behalf of this test, the students get entry into their courses.
Tier 4 Student Visa
If you are an applicant who wants to enter the university via Tier 4 student Visa, then you are required to meet the level of English language set by the institution. Tier 4 student Visa is basically used to possess a bachelor or postgraduate degree. IELTS results are affirmed in all British universities and colleges. So the students can easily apply to the UK universities with their acquired IELTS results, unless the institution demands additional requirements
