Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
The rules on English and the CAS
Appendix Student covers this in four places. ST 7.6 says the CAS must show how the English requirement has been met. ST 13.3 and ST 13.4 set out what the sponsor writes in each case, and ST 23.1(l) requires "a statement of how the student sponsor has assessed the applicant's English language ability", including test scores in all 4 components where relevant.
| How you meet the requirement | What the CAS must show |
|---|---|
| Your university assessed your English (degree level, higher education provider) | That it assessed you, the method, and that you are at least B2 in all 4 components |
| A Secure English Language Test | Test provider, unique reference number, score for reading, writing, listening and speaking |
| Combined pre-sessional course starting at B1 | That the sponsor is satisfied you will reach at least B2 by the end of the pre-sessional course |
How caseworkers use it
The Student route caseworker guidance says each CAS links to a checking service holding your personal details, sponsor, course, finances, and "academic and English language ability". The caseworker must check the CAS to determine what level of English is required and what assessment or evidence was used.
The guidance also says a CAS must be issued no more than 6 months before you apply and cannot be reused once it has supported an application that was granted or refused. Gov.uk tells applicants to apply within 6 months of receiving the CAS.
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Before you apply
Compare the English entry on your CAS with your test report: provider, reference number and each component score should match. If you are exempt, for example as a national of a country on the gov.uk list, or you hold a degree taught in English, check that the CAS says how the requirement is met. Immigration rules change, sometimes at short notice. Confirm the current rule on the gov.uk Student visa page before you book a test or apply. This guide is general information, not legal or immigration advice.
Frequently asked questions
Does my CAS show my IELTS score?+
If a SELT is required, yes: the CAS must include the provider, the test's unique reference number and the score in each of the 4 components.
My university waived IELTS. What does the CAS say?+
It states that the university assessed your English, how it did so, and that you meet at least B2 in all 4 components.
Can I reuse an old CAS?+
Not if it was used in an application that was granted or refused. Caseworker guidance allows reuse only after an application rejected as invalid, withdrawn or declared void.
How long is a CAS valid for a visa application?+
It must be issued no more than 6 months before the date you apply.
Keep reading
Related
- Can a UK university waive IELTS for the visa?
- IELTS for the UK Student visa
- UK SELT list 2026
- Pre-sessional English and the Student visa
- 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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