IELTS announced on 26 March 2026 that UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) has extended its agreement to keep IELTS as an approved Secure English Language Test (SELT) provider. IELTS has held SELT status since the system began in early 2015.
Key facts
- Announced 26 March 2026
- Tests IELTS for UKVI (Academic and General Training), IELTS Life Skills
- End date Not published
- Context IELTS withdrew from the HOELT tender on 17 March 2026
Which tests are covered
IELTS for UKVI, in both its Academic and General Training forms, stays accepted as proof of English for people coming to the UK to study, work or live. IELTS Life Skills stays in use for the visa categories that need a speaking and listening test only, such as family and settlement routes. IELTS for UKVI is offered in more than 115 countries.
The announcement does not give a start or end date for the extension.
Why it matters now
The news came nine days after the IELTS partners said they would not bid for the Home Office English Language Test (HOELT) contract, which is meant to replace the current SELT system with a mainly remote test. The extension means IELTS remains a valid route for UK visa applications until the new arrangements are in place. The government has not said when the existing SELT contracts will end.
What this means
If you need English for a UK visa, you can still book IELTS for UKVI or IELTS Life Skills. Make sure you book the UKVI version at an approved centre, not standard IELTS, unless your university has told you in writing that standard IELTS is enough for a degree-level course. Before booking, check the GOV.UK page on approved English tests for the current list of providers and centres, and confirm the CEFR level your visa route needs.