Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
What gov.uk asks you to provide
The gov.uk SELT guidance says you 'will be given a SELT unique reference number which you must use when making your application'. For IELTS SELT Consortium tests that reference is labelled the 'UKVI number'.
It adds: 'You do not need to submit any documents as part of the immigration or nationality application', and 'If you do not include your reference number, your application may be refused.'
| Rule | gov.uk wording |
|---|---|
| How results are checked | Using the SELT online verification system |
| What you give UKVI | Your SELT unique reference number (the UKVI number for IELTS) |
| Documents | None needed in the application |
| Validity | 2 years from the date the test is awarded |
| Where the test was sat | At an approved test location |
| IELTS products named | IELTS for UKVI and IELTS Life Skills |
Rules about the score itself
gov.uk says results must have been awarded in the two years before the date of your application. Note the wording: the clock runs from the date the test is awarded.
Where two or more skills are examined and awarded together, you 'must show that you achieved the required scores in all the relevant components with the same test centre provider as part of the combined test assessment' (gov.uk).
The CEFR level and minimum score for each level sit in the approved tests list linked from that page. Your visa route sets which level you need.
Need a SELT for a UK visa?
Where the Home Office asks for a Secure English Language Test, IELTS for UKVI and PTE Academic UKVI are approved. Practise the format free.
Free IELTS for UKVI practice →Practise before you book: free IELTS mock test, IELTS reading practice, IELTS listening practice and IELTS speaking predictions.
Common problems
The only IELTS products gov.uk names as SELTs are IELTS for UKVI and IELTS Life Skills, so check you booked one of them if your visa route needs a SELT. gov.uk also requires the test to have been sat at an approved test location (gov.uk).
Frequently asked questions
Do I upload my IELTS TRF to the UK visa application?+
No. gov.uk says you do not need to submit documents; you give your SELT unique reference number instead.
Where do I find my UKVI number?+
IELTS SELT Consortium results carry it, labelled 'UKVI number', and gov.uk says to use it in your application.
What if I forget to include the reference number?+
gov.uk warns that your application may be refused.
How long is an IELTS for UKVI result valid for a visa?+
2 years from the date the test is awarded, according to gov.uk.
Keep reading
Related
- IELTS for UKVI vs IELTS Academic
- UK SELT list 2026
- IELTS for UK Skilled Worker visa
- Booked IELTS instead of IELTS for UKVI?
- All 3112 guides
Guide updated on 30 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.
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