Based on looking at the website ukselttest.co.uk, our review indicates significant concerns regarding its legitimacy and readiness for operation. While it purports to offer A1, A2, and B1 SELT (Secure English Language Test) examinations for UK Visas & Immigration purposes, the site currently displays a “We’re Down for Maintenance” message across its primary content area. This status, combined with a severe lack of essential information typically found on a professional and trustworthy service provider’s website, makes it impossible to recommend. A reputable service in this critical area would provide clear contact details, registration information, terms and conditions, privacy policies, and detailed test specifics even during maintenance, or ideally, be fully functional.
Here’s a summary of our findings:
- Operational Status: Currently Down for Maintenance, rendering all services inaccessible.
- Essential Information: Lacking vital details such as company registration, physical address, direct contact number, email, privacy policy, terms and conditions, and about Us section.
- Trust Signals: Absence of legitimate trust badges, customer testimonials, or clear affiliations with official bodies.
- Transparency: Minimal information about the tests, pricing, or the booking process.
- Overall Recommendation: Not recommended due to lack of functionality, transparency, and essential legal/operational information.
For individuals seeking to book Secure English Language Tests for UK Visas & Immigration, it is crucial to utilise established and officially recognised providers. Relying on websites that lack transparency or are perpetually “under maintenance” can lead to significant delays, financial loss, and potentially compromise visa applications. Always verify a provider’s legitimacy through official government channels and look for comprehensive, readily available information before proceeding with any booking or payment.
Here are some of the best alternatives for Secure English Language Tests (SELT) and related language proficiency:
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Trinity College London (SELT): Trinity College London is one of the officially recognised providers for SELT tests in the UK.
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- Key Features: Offers tests for all UKVI visa requirements (A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2), widely recognised, test centres across the UK.
- Average Price: Varies by test level, typically £150-£200.
- Pros: Officially approved by UKVI, well-established, clear guidance and resources.
- Cons: Test slots can fill up quickly, strict exam conditions.
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Pearson PTE Academic (SELT): Pearson PTE Academic UKVI is another officially approved SELT provider.
- Key Features: Computer-based English language test, fast results (typically within 48 hours), approved for all UK visa types requiring a SELT.
- Average Price: Approximately £150-£200.
- Pros: Quick results, flexible test dates, less susceptible to human bias in scoring.
- Cons: Requires familiarity with computer-based testing, some find the speaking section challenging due to AI scoring.
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LanguageCert (SELT): LanguageCert offers SELT exams approved by UKVI.
- Key Features: Available for all CEFR levels (A1-C2), both online and in-person options (for some tests), results typically within 3-5 business days.
- Average Price: Around £150-£200.
- Pros: User-friendly interface for online tests, good customer support, approved by UKVI.
- Cons: Less widely known than some other providers, online tests require stable internet connection and specific equipment.
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IELTS for UKVI (IELTS): While not strictly a SELT, IELTS for UKVI is a widely accepted English language proficiency test for many UK visa categories, especially higher education.
- Key Features: Recognised globally, academic and general training modules, comprehensive assessment of all four language skills.
- Average Price: Approximately £180-£220.
- Pros: Gold standard in English language testing, accepted by thousands of organisations worldwide.
- Cons: Results can take up to 13 days, more complex structure than some SELTs.
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British Council (Language Courses & Resources): While not a SELT provider directly for visa purposes, the British Council offers excellent language courses and resources to prepare for SELT exams.
- Key Features: High-quality English language teaching, experienced tutors, various course formats (online, in-person).
- Average Price: Varies significantly based on course type and duration.
- Pros: Reputable institution, effective learning methodologies, strong foundation for test success.
- Cons: Not a test provider itself, requires additional investment for test fees.
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Cambridge Assessment English (Preparation Materials): Provides a wealth of official preparation materials for various English language exams, including those relevant to SELT.
- Key Features: Practice tests, study guides, vocabulary builders, grammar exercises.
- Average Price: Many resources are free, official coursebooks can range from £20-£50.
- Pros: Developed by experts, provides authentic exam practice, covers all aspects of language.
- Cons: Requires self-discipline for self-study, not a substitute for formal instruction if significant improvement is needed.
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GOV.UK (Official SELT Provider List): The definitive source for checking officially approved SELT test centres and providers.
- Key Features: Up-to-date list of approved tests and centres, essential information for UK visa applicants.
- Average Price: Free access to information.
- Pros: Official and reliable, ensures compliance with UKVI requirements, helps avoid fraudulent websites.
- Cons: Does not offer direct services, merely a directory.
Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.
IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.
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ukselttest.co.uk Review & First Look
When first navigating to ukselttest.co.uk, the immediate impression is one of stark simplicity, quickly followed by a sense of unease. The top of the page prominently features “UK SELT TEST” alongside “A1, A2 & B1 Tests for UK Visas & Immigration,” which clearly states the purported service. However, this initial clarity is immediately overshadowed by a large, unavoidable message plastered across the main content area: “We’re Down for Maintenance.” This isn’t just a small banner; it effectively renders the entire site unusable for its stated purpose.
- Operational Status: The single most critical issue is that the website is non-functional. For a service dealing with crucial immigration requirements, being “down for maintenance” indefinitely or for an extended period is a significant red flag. As of our review, there is no indication of when the site might become operational again, nor any alternative contact methods for potential users.
- Minimalist Design: Beyond the maintenance message, the design is incredibly basic. It lacks the professional polish, detailed information, and user-friendly interface expected of a legitimate service provider in a sensitive sector like visa applications.
- Lack of Trust Signals: There are no visible trust badges, such as those from secure payment gateways, accreditation bodies, or recognised regulatory authorities. For a website handling personal data and financial transactions, the absence of these signals is deeply concerning. Reputable SELT providers prominently display their UKVI approval and other relevant certifications.
- Navigation Issues: The only clickable links provided are “UK SELT TEST” (which leads back to the homepage), “A1, A2 & B1 Tests for UK Visas & Immigration” (also leads to the homepage), and “BOOK TEST.” Clicking “BOOK TEST” while the site is under maintenance is pointless, as it would likely lead to an error or an incomplete page. This limited navigation further highlights the site’s undeveloped state.
The immediate conclusion from this first look is that ukselttest.co.uk appears to be either an underdeveloped project, a site that has been abandoned, or potentially a placeholder. Without a functioning platform and crucial information, it is impossible to assess its service quality, security, or reliability. Any user attempting to use this site for a critical process like a visa application would encounter an immediate dead end.
ukselttest.co.uk Cons
When evaluating ukselttest.co.uk, the list of cons significantly outweighs any potential positives, primarily because the website is fundamentally dysfunctional and lacks transparency.
- Non-Operational Status: The most glaring flaw is the “We’re Down for Maintenance” message. This means the service is currently unavailable, rendering it useless for anyone needing to book a SELT exam. For a service dealing with time-sensitive immigration matters, this is a critical failure.
- Absence of Key Information: A legitimate service provider, especially one dealing with visa applications, must provide comprehensive information. Ukselttest.co.uk conspicuously lacks:
- Contact Information: No phone number, email address, or physical address. How would a user get support, ask questions, or resolve issues?
- About Us Section: No details about the company, its history, mission, or team members. This absence severely undermines credibility.
- Terms and Conditions: Essential for outlining user rights, responsibilities, booking policies, refund policies, and legal disclaimers. Its omission is a major legal and ethical red flag.
- Privacy Policy: Crucial for detailing how user data is collected, stored, used, and protected. Without this, users have no assurance their personal information is safe.
- Test Details: No specifics about the test format, syllabus, duration, required documents, or preparation materials, which are standard for SELT providers.
- Pricing Structure: While a “BOOK TEST” link exists, there’s no visible pricing information, which is a fundamental requirement for any service.
- Lack of Trust and Security Signals: The website presents no verifiable signs of trustworthiness.
- No UKVI Approval Display: Official SELT providers are approved by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) and prominently display this approval. Ukselttest.co.uk shows no such accreditation.
- No Secure Payment Gateway Information: Although booking isn’t possible, there’s no mention of secure payment processing, which is vital for financial transactions.
- Absence of SSL/TLS Certificate Clarity: While browsers might indicate HTTPS, the overall impression is one of a site not configured for secure commercial operations.
- Poor User Experience: Even if the site were operational, its current state offers a dismal user experience due to the lack of content, generic design, and confusing “maintenance” message.
- No Social Proof or Testimonials: Legitimate services often feature customer reviews or testimonials. Ukselttest.co.uk has none, which further contributes to its unverified status.
- Risk to Applicants: Relying on such an unverified and non-operational website for a critical immigration requirement carries significant risks, including financial loss, data compromise, and jeopardising visa applications due to invalid test results or missed deadlines. For instance, according to data from the UKVI, a significant number of visa applications are rejected due to incorrect documentation or unrecognised qualifications. Using an unverified SELT provider could easily fall into this category.
In essence, ukselttest.co.uk fails to meet the basic requirements of a reliable online service, especially one operating in a regulated and sensitive domain like UK immigration. Its current state makes it entirely unsuitable for its stated purpose.
ukselttest.co.uk Alternatives
Given the critical deficiencies of ukselttest.co.uk, exploring legitimate and officially recognised alternatives is not just a recommendation but a necessity for anyone needing a Secure English Language Test (SELT) for UK visa applications. The UK government provides a definitive list of approved SELT providers, ensuring that any test taken with them will be valid for immigration purposes. Here’s a deeper dive into why these alternatives are superior and what they offer. Phoenixtours.co.uk Review
Officially Approved SELT Providers
The most reliable alternatives are the test centres officially approved by the UK government. As of recent updates from the UK government’s official website (GOV.UK), the primary approved providers are:
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Trinity College London:
- Overview: A globally recognised examination board with a long history of providing English language qualifications. They offer a range of SELT exams, including GESE (Graded Examinations in Spoken English) for A1, A2, and B1 levels, and ISE (Integrated Skills in English) for B1, B2, C1, and C2 levels.
- Key Strengths:
- Official UKVI Approval: Directly listed on GOV.UK as an approved SELT provider. This is paramount for visa applications.
- Comprehensive Test Range: Covers all required CEFR levels for various UK visa categories.
- Structured Preparation: Provides detailed exam specifications, sample papers, and guidance for test-takers.
- Extensive Test Centre Network: Multiple test centres across the UK, making it accessible.
- Secure Environment: Strict protocols for test delivery to ensure integrity and security.
- Pricing: Generally competitive and transparent, typically ranging from £150-£200 depending on the test level.
- Booking Process: Clear online booking system with available dates and locations.
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Pearson PTE Academic UKVI:
- Overview: A leading provider of computer-based English language tests, known for its rapid results and AI scoring. PTE Academic UKVI is specifically designed for UK visa and immigration purposes.
- Key Strengths:
- Fast Results: Often provides results within 48 hours, which is highly beneficial for urgent visa applications.
- Computer-Based Format: Appeals to those who prefer interacting with a computer rather than a human examiner for all sections.
- Fairness and Objectivity: AI scoring reduces potential human bias, ensuring consistent evaluation.
- Frequent Test Slots: Many test centres offer multiple slots daily, providing flexibility.
- Official UKVI Approval: Also recognised and listed on GOV.UK.
- Pricing: Similar to Trinity, typically in the £150-£200 range.
- Booking Process: User-friendly online platform for booking, rescheduling, and accessing preparation materials.
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LanguageCert:
- Overview: LanguageCert provides Secure English Language Tests for UKVI purposes, including both B1 and other levels. They offer both ‘Academic’ and ‘General’ options.
- Key Strengths:
- UKVI Approved: Listed on the official government website.
- Online Flexibility: Some of their tests can be taken remotely with online proctoring, offering convenience (though applicants should double-check which specific tests are approved for which visa routes).
- Global Recognition: Widely recognised for various purposes beyond UKVI.
- Clear Structure: Test format is straightforward, covering reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
- Pricing: Comparable to other providers, usually around £150-£200.
- Booking Process: Online booking portal available, providing test centre locations and dates.
Why these are better than ukselttest.co.uk:
- Legitimacy and Trust: These providers are directly approved by the UK government. This means their tests are guaranteed to be accepted by UKVI, removing any doubt or risk for visa applicants. Ukselttest.co.uk provides no such assurance.
- Functionality: They are fully operational, with clear booking systems, customer support, and robust infrastructure. Ukselttest.co.uk is “down for maintenance.”
- Transparency: All approved providers offer comprehensive details about their tests, pricing, terms and conditions, privacy policies, and contact information. This ensures users are fully informed and protected.
- Support and Resources: They provide extensive preparation materials, FAQs, and dedicated customer support channels to assist test-takers.
- Security: They adhere to stringent data protection and security protocols, safeguarding personal and financial information.
Where to Verify (Crucial Step):
Always cross-reference any SELT provider with the official UK government website. The specific page to check is usually found by searching “UKVI approved English language tests” on GOV.UK. This ensures you are using a legitimate service and that your test results will be valid for your visa application. This is the most crucial step in protecting yourself from unverified or potentially fraudulent websites. Secmedical.co.uk Review
How to Cancel ukselttest.co.uk Subscription / Free Trial
This section is hypothetical, as ukselttest.co.uk is currently non-operational and shows no indications of offering subscriptions, free trials, or a functioning booking system that would entail a cancellation process. The fact that the website is perpetually “Down for Maintenance” means that users cannot sign up for anything, nor can they inadvertently subscribe or begin a free trial.
However, if a website purporting to be ukselttest.co.uk (or a similar unverified entity) were to become operational and somehow process payments or registrations without proper disclosure, the following general advice on cancelling subscriptions or trials would apply:
- Check for a User Account/Dashboard: Legitimate services typically provide a personal account area where users can manage their subscriptions, view billing history, and cancel services directly. You would look for a “My Account,” “Settings,” or “Subscription” section.
- Review Terms and Conditions (If Available): Reputable websites always outline their cancellation policy in their Terms and Conditions or FAQs. This document would detail the exact steps, notice periods, and any penalties for cancellation.
- Contact Customer Support: If direct cancellation via an account dashboard isn’t possible, the next step is to contact the service provider’s customer support. Look for an email address, phone number, or live chat option. Given ukselttest.co.uk’s current state, finding any contact details is impossible.
- Dispute Charges with Your Bank/Payment Provider: In the event that a charge appears from an unrecognised or illegitimate website like ukselttest.co.uk (should it ever manage to process a payment in its current state), your immediate recourse would be to contact your bank or credit card provider.
- Explain the Situation: Inform them that an unauthorised or suspicious transaction has occurred from a website that is non-operational or lacks transparency.
- Request a Chargeback: Most banks have a process for disputing charges, especially those from unverified or fraudulent merchants. Provide all relevant details, including screenshots of the website’s “maintenance” message and any communication attempts.
- Cancel Card if Necessary: If you suspect fraudulent activity or if your card details might have been compromised, consider cancelling your card to prevent further unauthorised transactions.
Specific to ukselttest.co.uk:
Currently, there is no discernible mechanism to “cancel” anything on ukselttest.co.uk because there’s nothing to sign up for or purchase. The website’s lack of functionality means it cannot offer a subscription or trial in the first place. Therefore, the primary concern for users isn’t cancellation, but rather avoiding any interaction or payment attempt with such an unverified and non-functional platform.
It is always prudent to exercise extreme caution with any website that asks for personal or financial information but lacks clear operational status, contact details, and legal documentation. Britanniaevents.co.uk Review
ukselttest.co.uk Pricing
Determining the pricing for services offered by ukselttest.co.uk is presently impossible. The website, as of this review, displays a prominent “We’re Down for Maintenance” message, preventing any access to booking pages, service descriptions, or price lists. Even if it were operational, the lack of a transparent pricing structure would be a significant concern.
Legitimate Secure English Language Test (SELT) providers, such as Trinity College London, Pearson PTE Academic UKVI, and LanguageCert, all maintain clear, publicly accessible pricing information on their websites. This is crucial for potential test-takers who need to budget for their visa applications. Typically, these official SELT exams for UK visa purposes (A1, A2, B1 levels) range in price, generally falling between £150 and £200.
Here’s what a transparent pricing structure for a SELT provider should include:
- Clear Cost per Test Level: A breakdown of fees for A1, A2, B1, and any higher CEFR level tests offered.
- Total Cost: The final price, including any administrative or booking fees, with no hidden charges.
- Refund Policy: Detailed information on if and how refunds are issued, especially for cancellations or rescheduling.
- Payment Methods: Clearly stated accepted payment methods (e.g., credit/debit card, online payment gateways).
- Confirmation of Booking: What the user receives upon successful payment and booking (e.g., booking confirmation, test centre details, date/time).
The absence of any pricing information on ukselttest.co.uk is another critical red flag. Without this, a user cannot make an informed decision, nor can they compare it against legitimate alternatives. The UK government’s official guidance on SELT exams explicitly advises applicants to only book tests with approved providers, where pricing and terms are clearly laid out.
For perspective, here are typical price ranges for officially recognised SELT tests in the UK: Blueprintsw.co.uk Review
- Trinity College London GESE (A1, A2, B1): Approximately £150 – £180.
- Pearson PTE Academic UKVI: Approximately £160 – £200.
- LanguageCert SELT: Approximately £150 – £190.
These figures are estimates and can vary slightly, but they provide a baseline for what a legitimate SELT exam should cost. Any website, like ukselttest.co.uk, that completely conceals this fundamental information, especially in its current non-operational state, cannot be considered a viable or trustworthy option for such an important service.
ukselttest.co.uk vs. Other SELT Providers
Comparing ukselttest.co.uk with established and officially recognised Secure English Language Test (SELT) providers is akin to comparing a stalled vehicle with a fleet of high-performance cars. The comparison immediately highlights the significant deficiencies of ukselttest.co.uk, particularly in terms of legitimacy, functionality, transparency, and reliability.
Let’s break down the comparison across key aspects:
| Feature/Aspect | ukselttest.co.uk | Approved SELT Providers (e.g., Trinity, Pearson, LanguageCert) |
|---|---|---|
| Operational Status | “We’re Down for Maintenance” (Non-functional) | Fully operational, 24/7 online booking, clear test schedules. |
| Official Approval | No visible UKVI approval or accreditation. | Explicitly listed on GOV.UK as approved SELT providers for UK Visas & Immigration. |
| Transparency | Extremely low; no contact info, T&Cs, privacy. | High; comprehensive information on test details, policies, fees, preparation materials, and support. |
| Pricing Information | None visible; no access to booking. | Clearly displayed, transparent pricing for each test level, including any associated fees. |
| Contact & Support | None provided. | Dedicated customer service teams, phone lines, email support, FAQs, and sometimes live chat. |
| Security Measures | No clear indications of robust security. | Adherence to industry standards for data protection (GDPR compliant), secure payment gateways (PCI DSS compliant), and robust website security (SSL/TLS certificates prominently used). |
| Test Availability | Zero; due to maintenance. | Wide range of test centres across the UK and internationally, flexible dates and times, regular test sessions. |
| Preparation Aids | None. | Extensive free and paid preparation materials, sample papers, study guides, webinars, and often links to accredited language schools. |
| User Experience | Poor; single maintenance message, no navigation. | Professional, user-friendly websites with intuitive navigation, clear calls to action, and comprehensive dashboards for test-takers to manage bookings and view results. |
| Reputation | Unknown/Unverified; no history or reviews. | Long-standing reputation in language assessment, widely recognised by educational institutions, employers, and immigration authorities globally. Numerous positive reviews and testimonials. |
| Refund/Cancellation Policy | Not applicable/unknown. | Clearly defined policies for cancellations, rescheduling, and refunds, with specified terms and conditions. |
Conclusion of Comparison:
Ukselttest.co.uk, in its current state, does not even qualify as a viable competitor to legitimate SELT providers. It lacks every fundamental aspect expected of a professional and trustworthy service in this critical domain. For anyone needing a SELT for UK visa purposes, bypassing ukselttest.co.uk and directly engaging with officially approved providers is the only responsible and secure course of action. Relying on unverified sources can lead to wasted time, financial loss, and severe complications with visa applications.
FAQ
What is ukselttest.co.uk?
Ukselttest.co.uk purports to offer A1, A2, and B1 Secure English Language Tests (SELT) for UK Visas & Immigration, but the website is currently non-operational and displays a “We’re Down for Maintenance” message. Ignys.co.uk Review
Is ukselttest.co.uk currently functional?
No, ukselttest.co.uk is not currently functional; it displays a “We’re Down for Maintenance” message, preventing any use of its stated services.
Can I book a SELT test on ukselttest.co.uk right now?
No, you cannot book a SELT test on ukselttest.co.uk as the website is non-operational due to maintenance.
Is ukselttest.co.uk approved by UKVI?
There is no visible indication or official statement on ukselttest.co.uk confirming its approval by UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI). Always check the official GOV.UK website for approved SELT providers.
What information is missing from ukselttest.co.uk?
Ukselttest.co.uk is missing crucial information such as contact details, an ‘About Us’ section, terms and conditions, a privacy policy, detailed test specifics, and pricing information.
Are there any contact details for ukselttest.co.uk?
No, there are no contact details like a phone number, email address, or physical address provided anywhere on the ukselttest.co.uk website. Mrnnursery.co.uk Review
Does ukselttest.co.uk have a pricing list?
No, ukselttest.co.uk does not have a visible pricing list, as the website is down for maintenance and no service information is accessible.
What are the main concerns about ukselttest.co.uk?
The main concerns about ukselttest.co.uk include its non-operational status, severe lack of transparency, absence of essential legal and operational information, and no clear UKVI approval.
Is it safe to provide personal information to ukselttest.co.uk?
Given its non-operational status and lack of transparency, it is highly unadvisable to provide any personal or financial information to ukselttest.co.uk.
What are reliable alternatives for SELT tests in the UK?
Reliable alternatives for SELT tests in the UK include officially approved providers like Trinity College London, Pearson PTE Academic UKVI, and LanguageCert, all listed on the GOV.UK website.
How can I verify if a SELT provider is legitimate?
You can verify if a SELT provider is legitimate by checking the official list of approved Secure English Language Test providers on the GOV.UK website. Mylondonchauffeurs.co.uk Review
What is the typical cost of a SELT test from an approved provider?
The typical cost of a SELT test from an approved provider (A1, A2, B1 levels) generally ranges from £150 to £200.
What should a legitimate SELT website include?
A legitimate SELT website should include clear contact information, ‘About Us’ details, comprehensive terms and conditions, a privacy policy, detailed test information, transparent pricing, and clear UKVI approval.
Can I get a refund from ukselttest.co.uk if I paid for a test?
As the website is non-operational, it’s highly unlikely you could have paid for a test. If any payment was made, you would need to contact your bank or payment provider to dispute the charge.
What are the risks of using an unverified SELT provider?
The risks of using an unverified SELT provider include financial loss, invalid test results (leading to visa application rejection), data compromise, and significant delays in your immigration process.
Does ukselttest.co.uk offer any preparation materials?
No, ukselttest.co.uk does not offer any preparation materials; the website is completely non-functional. Blackpoolmotorcare.co.uk Review
How quickly do approved SELT providers give results?
Approved SELT providers like Pearson PTE Academic UKVI can give results within 48 hours, while others like Trinity College London and LanguageCert typically provide results within 3-5 business days.
What are the different levels of SELT tests?
SELT tests are typically offered at various CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference) levels, including A1 (Basic User), A2 (Basic User), B1 (Independent User), B2 (Independent User), C1 (Proficient User), and C2 (Proficient User), depending on visa requirements.
Is an IELTS test always accepted for UK visas?
While highly recognised, not all IELTS tests are accepted for UK visa purposes; specifically, you need to take “IELTS for UKVI” from an approved test centre for immigration purposes.
What should I do if I encounter a suspicious website claiming to offer SELT tests?
If you encounter a suspicious website claiming to offer SELT tests, immediately verify its legitimacy against the official GOV.UK list of approved providers and avoid providing any personal or financial details.
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