Which English tests count for ILR at B2?

Only a Secure English Language Test (SELT) from a Home Office approved provider, taken at an approved test centre, counts. For applications on or after 26 March 2027 it must be at B2 or higher in speaking and listening, taken no more than 2 years before the date you apply.

The approved providers

GOV.UK's SELT guide (last updated 12 October 2026) lists these providers. In the UK: Trinity College London, the IELTS SELT Consortium, LanguageCert and Pearson. Outside the UK: PSI Services (UK) Ltd, the IELTS SELT Consortium, LanguageCert and Pearson. The guide says settlement applications need a test that assesses speaking and listening.

Which B2 tests are on the list

The approved list was still the October 2025 version when we checked. Its B2 tests cover all four skills: IELTS for UKVI, LanguageCert Academic and General SELT, PTE Academic UKVI and Trinity ISE. There was no B2 test that covers only speaking and listening yet (see Is there an IELTS Life Skills B2?). Check the list and the provider before you book.

Is Trinity GESE Grade 7 B2?

Trinity has announced GESE Grade 7 as a B2 speaking and listening test for this rule, but when we checked it was not on the Home Office approved list. Until it is listed, it will not count for ILR. We will update this page when the list changes.

How long is a test valid for ILR?

GOV.UK says test results are valid for 2 years from the date the test is awarded, and the Rules say the test must have been taken no more than 2 years before your application. The exception is a B2 (or higher) qualification that was accepted for your current permission, if the provider is still approved and the test is still on the list: see I proved my English for my visa. Do I need it again?.

Do you need a test at all?

Maybe not. Age, nationality, a long-term condition, your route or a degree taught in English can mean no test is needed (see Does my degree count?). GOV.UK warns that a settlement application will be refused if you send the wrong qualifications, so check first.

Last checked against GOV.UK: 21 October 2026.

Sources

1. Prove your English language abilities with a Secure English Language Test (SELT), last updated 12 October 2026, GOV.UK (checked 21 Oct 2026)
2. Immigration Rules: Appendix KoLL (updated 8 October 2026), GOV.UK (checked 20 Oct 2026)
3. Prove your knowledge of English: approved English language qualifications, GOV.UK (checked 21 Oct 2026)
4. Prove your knowledge of English for citizenship and settling, GOV.UK (checked 21 Oct 2026)

This is general information, not immigration advice. Check GOV.UK for your own route, or speak to a regulated immigration adviser (registered with the IAA, formerly OISC). Find a regulated adviser on GOV.UK.