Planning to work, study, or settle in the UK? You’ll likely need to take the SELT exam—a Secure English Language Test approved by the UK Home Office. Unlike standard English tests, the SELT exam is legally required by UKVI. It tests your speaking and listening skills at a specific CEFR level (A1 to B2), based on the visa you apply for.
You can take the test in India or at any of the 130+ UKVI-approved SELT test centers outside the UK. These are high-security venues that follow UKVI’s strict identity, delivery, and results verification protocols.
Here, we’ll cover:
What is the SELT exam for UK visa?
Test types, levels (A1, A2, B1, B2), and UKVI requirements
Where to take the SELT in India + test fees and duration
SELT vs IELTS – which one is right for your visa
How to register for the SELT exam and what documents to carry
The SELT exam is mandatory for most applicants applying for a UK visa under the UKVI system. The required level (A1, A2, B1, or B2) depends on the visa category.
This test is needed if you are:
Applying for a Spouse or Family visa (A1 or A2)
Going to the UK on a Skilled Worker visa (B1)
Enrolling in a Tier 4 Student visa program (B1 or B2)
Renewing a visa or applying for UK citizenship (B1 level)
Migrating through Innovator, Start-up, or Global Talent routes (B2 level)
SELT Requirements by UK Visa Type
Visa Type
SELT Level Required
Test Format
Family/Spouse visa
A1 or A2
Speaking and listening only
Skilled Worker visa
B1
Usually speaking and listening
Tier 4 Student (Degree)
B2
Full SELT: listening, reading, writing, speaking
Tier 4 Student (Below degree)
B1
Focus on speaking and listening
Settlement/Citizenship
B1
Taken at a UKVI-approved SELT test center
Make sure your test matches the visa requirement listed in the UK Home Office SELT test list.
Curious about the UK education system? This explainer breaks it down:How UK education works.
SELT Exam Types and Levels
Your UK visa route decides both the SELT exam type and CEFR level you must take. The UK Home Office accepts a range of SELT providers—IELTS for UKVI, Trinity GESE, PTE UKVI, LanguageCert, and Skills for English: SELT. Each offers tests matched to visa requirements.
The SELT exam tests either two skills (speaking and listening) or all four (speaking, listening, reading, and writing), depending on the visa category. Levels range from A1 to C1 under the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages).
The SELT exam format depends on the test provider and the visa type you're applying for. Some tests like GESE cover only Speaking and Listening, while others like IELTS for UKVI assess all four skills—Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking. Each SELT provider follows UKVI guidelines and uses different scoring scales and formats.
If you're applying for a spouse visa, you may only need a short A1-level Speaking and Listening test. But for UK student or work visas, full-skill SELTs are required.
SELT Test Format Breakdown by Exam Provider
Provider
Skills Tested
Duration & Scoring
Trinity GESE
Speaking and Listening
10–25 min · Grade-based (Pass/Fail)
IELTS for UKVI
All four skills
~2 hrs 45 min · Band score (0–9)
LanguageCert SELT
2-skill or 4-skill exams
25–180 min · CEFR-aligned (A1–C1)
PTE Academic UKVI
All four skills
~2 hrs · Score scale (10–90)
Skills for English SELT
Speaking & Listening or all 4 skills
20–180 min · CEFR-aligned (A1–C1)
Note: Each SELT exam provider is approved by the UK Home Office SELT test list and the format cannot be changed once booked.
The SELT exam fee varies depending on the provider and the number of skills tested. For example, a basic A1 Speaking and Listening SELT may cost around $130–$150 (₹11,000–₹12,500), while a full 4-skill exam like IELTS for UKVI or PTE UKVI can go up to $200–$250 (₹17,000–₹21,000).
In India, SELT approved test centers are located in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Chennai. Test slots are available frequently—weekly or even daily for popular exams.
SELT Exam Fee & Test Center Snapshot (2025)
Provider
Approx. Fee (USD/INR)
Availability in India
Trinity GESE
$130–$150 (₹11,000–₹12,500)
Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore
IELTS for UKVI
$240–$250 (₹20,000–₹21,000)
All major metro cities
LanguageCert SELT
$135–$180 (₹11,300–₹15,000)
Test-at-home and select center options
PTE UKVI
$220–$235 (₹18,000–₹19,500)
Multiple Pearson centers in India
Skills for English SELT
$140–$160 (₹12,000–₹13,200)
10+ Indian cities, incl. Pune & Kochi
How to check SELT Exam center availability: Use the provider’s website to choose your city and see upcoming slots. Slots refill often, especially for IELTS and LanguageCert SELT.
Online vs. In-person SELT Exam: Most UKVI-accepted SELT exams in India are in-person. However, LanguageCert and Skills for English SELTs offer remote proctoring for select levels.
How to Book the SELT Exam
You can book the SELT exam through official UKVI-approved provider websites like IELTS for UKVI, LanguageCert, PTE UKVI, and others. The process is fully online and typically takes under 20 minutes if you have all your documents ready.
How to Register for SELT Exam in India or Abroad
Booking Step
Details
Choose a UKVI-approved test provider
Visit official site of IELTS for UKVI, LanguageCert, or Skills for English.
Create account and start booking
Use a valid email ID and set a password to log in.
Select visa type and test level
Pick A1, B1, B2, etc. based on your visa route (e.g., spouse, student).
Choose SELT approved test center
Use your pin code or city to view slots in India or nearby countries.
Upload valid ID and passport photo
Make sure ID matches the document you'll carry on exam day.
Pay the SELT exam fees
Use credit/debit cards. Amount depends on provider and test format.
Download confirmation & instructions
Save your email confirmation and check the reporting time & venue.
Booking for SELT approved test centers in India can be done at least 3 days before the test date. Seats fill fast in metro cities, so book early.
Validity and Reuse of SELT Scores
SELT exam scores are valid for 2 years from the test date. You must ensure your score is still valid on the date you apply for a UK visa, whether it’s for work, study, or family routes.
SELT Exam Validity for Visa Applications
Most visa routes like Skilled Worker, Spouse Visa, and Student Visa accept SELT scores that are less than 2 years old.
UKVI requires that your SELT exam score be valid at the time of application submission.
If your SELT exam validity expires, you must retake the exam, even if the level remains the same.
For visa renewals or extensions, you may reuse the same score if still valid at the time of re-application.
Tip: Double-check your visa timeline. If you're planning to apply more than a year after testing, consider retaking the SELT to avoid delays.
The SELT exam tests real-world English skills aligned with CEFR levels (A1 to C1), depending on your UK visa category. To perform well, you need proper strategy—especially for modules like Speaking and Listening, which are often tested in isolation for visa applicants.
How to Prepare for the SELT Exam for UK Visa Success
Preparation Focus
Why It Helps
Know your CEFR level (A1, B1, B2, etc.)
Every visa type has a specific requirement. Understanding this saves retakes.
Use official sample papers
Most test providers offer free practice materials that mirror actual questions.
Focus on SELT speaking and listening format
GESE and LanguageCert often assess only these two skills for family/work visas.
Prepare for full-skill exams if required
IELTS for UKVI or PTE UKVI includes Reading, Writing, Speaking, and Listening.
Practice with apps like ELSA, Duolingo, etc.
Build fluency and comprehension with daily use of structured English content.
Join a training course or coaching program
Many India-based centers offer visa-specific SELT prep batches with mock tests.
What is the difference between SELT and normal English language tests?
The SELT exam (Secure English Language Test) is specifically approved by the UK Home Office for visa and immigration purposes. Regular IELTS or TOEFL scores are not accepted for certain visa types unless marked “UKVI.” SELT exam types and levels vary based on visa category.
Is the SELT exam required for all UK visa types?
All UK visas don’t require a SELT. However, most UK work, study, and family visas under UKVI rules need an approved SELT exam for UK visa documentation.
Can I use my regular IELTS score instead of SELT for UK immigration?
No, unless your IELTS was taken at a UKVI-approved center and is labeled as a SELT, it won’t be accepted. The SELT vs IELTS for UK visa debate often arises, but only UKVI-approved SELT tests are valid for visa applications.
How do I know if a test center is UKVI-approved for SELT in India?
Visit the official UK Home Office SELT test list or the testing partner’s website. Only SELT approved test centers in India are authorized to conduct secure testing under UK immigration rules.
Does the UK accept online SELT exams taken from India?
No. You must take your SELT exam at a physical UKVI-approved center. Remote or at-home exams are not valid for UK visa applications.
Are there any exemptions from the SELT exam for Indian citizens?
Exemptions apply only in rare cases such as age (below 18 or above 65), disability, or academic equivalency. Always check the latest SELT exam requirements for UKVI guidelines for your visa type.
Can I use the same SELT result for different UK visa applications?
Yes, as long as your SELT certificate is within its validity period and meets the required exam level for each visa type, it can be reused.
What happens if I fail my SELT exam before a UK visa deadline?
You can retake the SELT exam immediately, but keep the SELT exam fees and duration in mind. It’s best to book early to ensure your result arrives before your visa deadline.
Is there any age limit for taking the SELT exam for UK visa?
There is no official age limit, but most UKVI visa routes requiring SELT apply to adults. Exceptions may apply for dependents or family routes.
How long does it take to receive a SELT Test Reference Number?
You typically receive your SELT Test Reference Number within 24–72 hours of taking the test. It is essential for submitting your UK visa application.
Can I retake only one skill (like Speaking) in the SELT exam?
No. You must retake the entire test even if you need to improve only one section. SELT speaking and listening format is usually bundled, especially for visa categories that test only these skills.
Are there practice tests available specifically for SELT in India?
Yes, official testing providers offer SELT practice tests and sample materials. Look for resources tailored to the SELT exam format and level you’re applying for.
Does UKVI verify SELT results separately during the visa process?
Yes. UKVI cross-verifies all SELT scores through the test provider’s secure database. That’s why it’s critical to take the test at an approved SELT center.
Is the SELT result sent directly to the UK Home Office?
Yes. Your SELT test result and reference number are automatically forwarded to UKVI once your score is issued.
How can I check if my SELT certificate is still valid for UK visa?
Most SELT results are valid for two years. Confirm your test date and cross-check it against your visa application deadline to ensure your certificate is still valid.
She is an experienced writer and journalist who has extensively covered the education sector in India and Abroad. Now helping Indian aspirants realise their foreign education dream by providing them w...
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