Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
What gov.uk says
The SELT guidance says your identity document must be current and valid, original, carry your photo and match the information you gave when booking. If you cannot prove your identity, you will not be allowed to take the test.
| Your situation | Book in |
|---|---|
| Married, passport still in old surname | The old surname on the passport |
| Married, passport already in new surname | The new surname |
| Want new surname but passport in old | Change the passport or ID first, then book |
Accepted ID at the test
A passport, convention travel document or stateless persons travel document works in and outside the UK. In the UK you can use an eVisa share code. EEA identity cards work in the issuing country, and other government photo ID cards only outside the UK in the issuing country. Emergency travel documents are not accepted.
Gov.uk also says that if you have a previous gender or name you do not want centre staff to see or your result to show, email sensitivebookings@homeoffice.gov.uk before booking (gov.uk).
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.
Book the SELT version
Gov.uk tells you to make sure the test you book is the version approved as a SELT. Standard versions of the same brands do not count (gov.uk).
| Provider | SELT versions to book |
|---|---|
| IELTS SELT Consortium | IELTS for UKVI or IELTS Life Skills |
| LanguageCert | International ESOL SELT, Academic SELT or General SELT |
| Pearson | PTE Academic UKVI or PTE Home |
| PSI | Skills for English UKVI |
| Trinity College London | SELT for UKVI: ISE or GESE |
Frequently asked questions
Will a SELT in my maiden name cause problems on a spouse visa?+
Gov.uk tells you to book in the passport name, so a result in that name is expected. Give the reference number on your application; the Home Office checks it online.
Can I bring my marriage certificate to change the name at the centre?+
Gov.uk's SELT page says the booking details must match the identity document you show, and does not list a marriage certificate as ID.
My Home Office has my passport. What can I use?+
Gov.uk says to contact the Home Office to request it back if you have no other valid ID. In the UK you can use an eVisa.
Is the Life in the UK test the same?+
Yes in principle. Gov.uk says the name on that booking must exactly match the ID you use.
Keep reading
Related
- IELTS for UKVI ID rules
- English for UK spouse and family visas
- IELTS Life Skills A1, A2 and B1
- PTE Home A1, A2 and B1
- 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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