JK
James Kelly
SELT Specialist
Former Trinity examiner. Knows exactly what assessors look for in the SELT speaking test.
UK visa English requirement
Find a specialist SELT tutor who understands exactly what the Home Office requires — and knows how Trinity and LanguageCert examiners award marks.
Understanding the exam
A Secure English Language Test (SELT) is a Home Office-approved English test required for certain UK visa applications — including the Skilled Worker visa, Family visa, and Indefinite Leave to Remain. Unlike IELTS, a SELT must be taken at a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI)-approved centre.
The SELT tests your Speaking and Listening skills at either A2 or B1 CEFR level, depending on your visa type. Preparation is essential — examiners follow strict marking criteria that differ from everyday English conversation.
For Family visa applicants and some settlement routes. Tests basic communication.
Find A2 SELT tutorsFor Skilled Worker visa, ILR, and citizenship applications. Tests independent communication.
Find B1 SELT tutorsTrinity College London GESE exams are widely accepted. Specific format and topic requirements.
Find Trinity SELT tutorsLanguageCert International ESOL SELT. Increasingly popular choice for UK visa applicants.
Find LanguageCert tutorsFormer Trinity examiner. Knows exactly what assessors look for in the SELT speaking test.
Specialises in nervous students. 97% pass rate on SELT preparation courses.
Teaches SELT specifically for ILR and British citizenship applications.
The prep process
Your teacher does a speaking and listening assessment in your first session to identify gaps.
Structured sessions covering all SELT topics, pronunciation, fluency, and examiner expectations.
Full mock SELT tests under exam conditions so you know exactly what to expect on the day.
Our SELT students pass first time at a 94% rate. Secure your visa with confidence.
Common questions
It depends on your visa type. The Skilled Worker visa and ILR typically require B1 level; the Family visa requires A2. Always check the current Home Office guidance at gov.uk or ask an immigration solicitor, as requirements can change. Your SELT tutor can also advise based on your situation.
Most students at B1 level need 4–8 sessions of focused SELT preparation. If you're already comfortable in English and just need to learn the exam format, fewer sessions may be enough. Students who need more significant English improvement will benefit from a longer course.
Both are accepted by the Home Office for most visa types. Trinity SELT (GESE) is a face-to-face speaking test, whereas LanguageCert SELT tests both speaking and listening. The format and topics differ. Your tutor will prepare you for whichever version you have booked — or can advise on which to choose.
Yes — all preparation lessons can be done online via Zoom or Google Meet. The speaking practice in lessons is very close to the real exam format. The actual SELT exam itself must be taken in person at an approved UKVI test centre.