The B1 English test (SELT): B1 for ILR and citizenship, approved providers, booking, the 2-year validity, preparation tips and free resources

Published: 18 October 2026Last checked: October 20264 min read

Short answer

GOV.UK: ILR and citizenship need only a speaking and listening test (SELT); results last 2 years. Approved providers: Trinity, IELTS SELT, LANGUAGECERT, Pearson, PSI. The ILR level rises from B1 to B2 from 26 March 2027. Preparation: British Council LearnEnglish.

In short

This post is general information and does not assess anyone's personal situation. It is based on GOV.UK and the other official pages as they were on 18 October 2026. Fees, dates and rules can change.
According to GOV.UK people aged 18 or over applying for citizenship or settlement (ILR) may need to prove their English. For citizenship the accepted levels are B1, B2, C1 or C2; a degree taught in English can also be evidence.
If you send the wrong evidence the application is refused (GOV.UK).

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Official sources

This answer is based on the pages below. Check the source yourself before you decide.

GOV.UK: Prove your English language abilities with a secure English language test (SELT)
GOV.UK: English language requirement for citizenship and settlement
GOV.UK: English language, exemptions
GOV.UK: Immigration Rules Appendix English Language
GOV.UK: Immigration Rules Appendix KoLL
British Council: LearnEnglish

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GOV.UK: ILR lets you live, work and study without a time limit and apply for benefits if eligible. For most people it lapses after more than 2 continuous years abroad (Returning Resident visa £726). You can apply for citizenship (£1,839) after 12 months; ILR gives no vote in UK general elections.
Last checked: October 2026

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More questions on this topic

The Life in the UK test: who takes it, 24 questions in 45 minutes, the pass mark, the £50 fee, booking and ID, official study resources

What changes when you become a British citizen? Passport (£102), voting, registering children (£1,000), bringing family, dual citizenship and differences from ILR

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