English at CEFR level B2 for a course at degree level or above, or B1 below degree level, shown by a Secure English Language Test, a UK school qualification, a degree taught in English, the university's own assessment for degree-level courses, or an exemption by nationality.
What UKVI Looks For
A Student visa applicant must show English at CEFR level B2 for a course at degree level or above, and B1 for a course below degree level. It can be shown by:
A Secure English Language Test (SELT) from an approved provider
A GCSE, A level or Scottish qualification in English begun in the UK before age 18
A UK degree taught in English
A degree from another country taught in English, with an Ecctis assessment confirming it
For degree-level courses, the sponsor's own assessment of the student's English, at a level still equivalent to B2 (this appears on the CAS)
Nationals of, or degree holders from, certain English-speaking countries are exempt. GOV.UK lists them, including Australia, Ireland, Jamaica, New Zealand, the UK and the USA, and the British overseas territories. Canadian nationals are exempt too, as are applicants who proved their English in a previous visa application.
A useful result shows the test, the score for each skill, and the test date.
Evidence Strength
Strong Evidence
SELT score report from an approved provider at the level the course needs
A UK school qualification in English begun before age 18
A degree taught in English, with an Ecctis assessment if it is from another country
The CAS showing the sponsor assessed the applicant's English, for a degree-level course
Weak Evidence
A test that is not an approved SELT
A score below the level the course needs
A foreign degree with no Ecctis assessment of the language of instruction
A score report with scores for only some skills
Common Refusal / Processing Triggers
Common Problems
English evidence below the level the course needs, B2 at degree level or above and B1 below.
A foreign degree without an Ecctis assessment confirming it was taught in English.
A test result that is not from an approved provider.
Assuming an exemption applies without checking the list on GOV.UK.
Tips for Strengthening Your Evidence
Pro Tips
Check the level your course needs first: B2 at degree level or above, B1 below.
Upload the full score report with each skill and the test date.
If you rely on a degree taught in English, get the Ecctis assessment before you apply.
If you rely on the sponsor's assessment, check that the CAS records it.
Relevant Document Types
Typical uploads: SELT score report from an approved provider, GCSE or A level in English, degree certificate with an Ecctis assessment confirming it was taught in English, and the CAS showing the sponsor assessed the applicant's English.