If you are looking to go through UCAS Clearing and are an international student, then you need to make sure your English language meets the standards set by UK Universities. This can be done by taking English language tests so that your skills are backed by an officially respected testing system. These systems are in place so that universities and UKVI can verify that you are able to understand and actually study in the UK.
Why Is This Needed?
UK Universities will be providing teaching in English therefore they want to check that all students that are not English native speakers are able to meet their minimum requirements and prove that they are fluent enough in the English language. This is to ensure that students are able to cope and complete the course without any issues.
Please remember though the minimum requirements may vary from each University and also from course to course. For example courses in the subject area of Law and Medicine will usually require students to have a higher level of English to cope with its complex course subject.
Which Test Should You Take?
Universities will usually state which English language tests that they accept and the minimum grade expected to apply. This is normally found on the course page of the University. Additionally the university may list the specific grade of each test component (writing, speaking, listening and reading) with these grades potentially varying depending on course. So please double check the entry requirements!
Each Test System is Different
When checking the testing system make sure that you understand their scoring system and ensure you understand what the minimum requirements are for your chosen course and university.
There are many types of English Language Test systems. We recommend taking one that is UKVI approved as well as it will help with your Visa Application!
Here are some of the most commonly English Tests that universities respect and accept:
IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
This is one of the most popular and commonly accepted testing system. It is managed jointly by the British Council, IDP and Cambridge English. IELTS has three different tests, IELTS Academic, IELTS General Training and IELTS for UKVI. In this for a student visa the IELTS Academic testing is the required test which is designed to see if students are ready to study in English. Within the IELTS Academic there is a IELTS UKVI Academic test which will is approved by the UK Home Office for Visa Applications to the UK.
The IELTS Academic tests has test duration of 2 hours 45 minutes and comprises of 4 sections, Listening (30 minutes), Reading (60 minutes), Writing (60 minutes), Speaking (11-14 minutes).
PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English)
The PTE tests is a new online alternative which has become more and more accepted by universities. Similar to the IELTS it consists of 4 sections (listening, reading, speaking and writing) and has a duration of 3 hours. These tests are taken online and are hosted in prearranged centers which can be found and booked here.
The PTE test is approved by 3,500 universities and colleges globally and continues to grow in recognition. Still it is best to double check the university requirements to find out if this is accepted.
PSI Services (UK) Ltd – Skills for English
Skills for English is a multi-level testing system created by PSI and SQA (Scottish Qualifications Authority) and is a UKVI backed test which will test prospective students and their English language skills. It is one of the 4 that delivers The Secure English Language Test (SELT) which is the compulsory test for UKVI.
LanguageCert
This is another test which is offers SELT testing for students and has a multi-level assessment system. It is approved by UKVI and can be used when applying for Universities and for a Student Visa. Lasting 2 hours 34 minutes, the test comprises of 4 sections like the others (listening, reading, speaking and writing).
To reiterate due to its importance, Please check the university course requirements to ensure that you are taking an accepted English language test!
How Can You Prepare For Testing?
When preparing for an English language test one key way to prepare is to check the website of the testing system. They will have support tools and mock papers for you to practice and get a feel of how the test will be structured. This can help calm nerves for the actual test ensuring you are at your best when taking the test. It is recommended to try to stick to the real time limits when practicing so that you get a more realistic examination practice.
There are plenty of other test materials that can be found online which can help. Other than tests another good way to get comfortable with English is reading technical long documents and articles that are related to your course. It will help you get an understanding of the language and allow you to learn more about your interests.
Take The Next Step
As shown there are many English language testing systems that can be taken to prepare you for when you are applying to study at a university in the UK. Whether you are applying through UCAS Clearing or other means we recommend that you prepare your test certificates so that you can apply for university and your student Visa without the stress of learning and testing more! A final reminder to check the university course requirements to ensure you are taking the right test.
If you are interested and want to find out more then click here for more of out guides. Or if you are looking for UCAS Clearing support enquire here and we can help support you through your UCAS Clearing journey and help you take the first steps to studying in the UK.
