Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
Three different rules
Appendix English Language EL 3.1 covers the routes listed in that appendix. Appendix KoLL 2.2(b) covers other ILR routes: before 26 March 2027 it accepts leave granted on a B1 English qualification, if the provider is still approved; from that date it needs B2. Gov.uk's citizenship English page covers naturalisation.
| Application | Earlier English evidence reused if |
|---|---|
| Visa or ILR under Appendix English Language | Shown at the level now required in a previous successful application |
| ILR under Appendix KoLL | Leave was given on a B1 qualification (B2 from 26 March 2027) and the provider is still approved |
| ILR (expired SELT) | B1 or higher, on the current list, accepted for another UK application |
| Citizenship | B1 or higher and accepted when you settled, even if not on the current list |
Where reuse fails
The level must match. An A1 or A2 test from a first partner visa or an extension cannot be reused for a B1 settlement rule, and a B1 test cannot meet a B2 rule.
The caseworker guidance says a qualification from a provider not on the current SELT list is not acceptable for ILR, even if accepted before. For citizenship, a person whose ILR was granted on a B1 qualification meets the language requirement without another test, regardless of whether it is on the current list.
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.
What to give on the new application
For a SELT taken on or after 6 April 2015, give the unique reference number; the Home Office checks it through the provider's online system (caseworker guidance).
For a degree, the caseworker guidance says no new Ecctis confirmation is needed if the Home Office accepted the degree in an earlier application and leave was granted, or if the degree was awarded by a UK university.
Frequently asked questions
I used IELTS Life Skills A2 to extend my spouse visa. Can I use it for ILR?+
No. Settlement asks for B1 (B2 from 26 March 2027 on most routes), so an A2 test does not meet it.
Do I need a new English test for citizenship after ILR?+
Not if your ILR was granted on a B1 or higher qualification. Form AN guidance says you would meet the requirement and do not have to pass another test.
My old test provider is no longer approved. Can I still use the test?+
For citizenship, yes, if it was accepted at settlement. For ILR, the caseworker guidance says a qualification from a provider not on the current list is not acceptable.
Do I need to send the old certificate?+
For tests taken from 6 April 2015 you give the unique reference number; the Home Office verifies it online.
Keep reading
Related
- How long a UK SELT is valid
- English level for ILR and British citizenship
- English for UK spouse and family visas
- The approved UK SELT list
- 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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