Which IELTS Test Is Better for Your Visa, the UKVI or Academic?
Proving your English ability is one of the first requirements you will encounter when preparing to study, work, or settle in the UK. In this section comes the role of the International English Language Testing System, or IELTS. But many applicants confuse the UKVI IELTS with the regular IELTS Academic exam. Both examine your English language proficiency; however, they differ significantly in terms of recognition, goal, and UK immigration requirements. Let's describe it to you.
What is IELTS Academic?
Students who want to continue their education in English-speaking nations can take the IELTS Academic exam. It evaluates your knowledge and proficiency in academic-level English in speaking, writing, listening, and reading. The IELTS Academic is widely accepted as evidence of English proficiency by universities in the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Australia, and many other nations.
In many cases, a normal IELTS Academic score is sufficient if your only objective is to be enrolled to a UK university. The eligibility requirements actually drastically change when applying for a UK student visa, which is where the UKVI IELTS comes into action.
What is UKVI IELTS?
The UK Home Office has approved UKVI IELTS (IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration), which is effectively the same test as IELTS Academic or IELTS General, for use in visa applications. The format, scoring methodology, content, and degree of difficulty are all the same as those of the standard IELTS. The main difference is found in:
- Administration and security: The UKVI IELTS is administered in testing facilities that comply to extra security protocols, including rigorous candidate verification, CCTV surveillance, and safe registration procedures.
- Test Report Form (TRF): The format of the UKVI IELTS TRF is a little different, and it contains a unique mark that certifies it was administered at an authorized UKVI spot.
These additional measures guarantee that the outcomes are reliable and satisfy UK immigration regulations.
Why Does the UK Require UKVI IELTS?
UKVI IELTS is required by the UK Home Office to guarantee security, authenticity, and consistency in English language testing for visa purposes. As a result, there is less chance of fraud and candidates will actually meet the language requirements for employment, education, or settlement.
It is possible that your ordinary IELTS Academic score won't always be accepted for processing your visa. Immigration policies are especially taken into consideration when designing the UKVI IELTS.
Which One Should You Take?
The following factors will determine whether you choose UKVI IELTS or IELTS Academic:
As the IELTS Academic is recognized by the majority of UK universities, it can be acceptable for university entrance only.
You must take the UKVI IELTS in order to fulfill the immigration requirements for applying for a UK visa (Student Route, Skilled Worker, or settlement visas).
In order for their result to be accepted into universities and used for visa applications, many candidates decide to take the UKVI IELTS Academic directly. The hassle of taking two different tests is eliminated along with time and money.
