The UK government has announced key changes in the language testing system for visa applications. It reduces the number of tests accepted for visa purposes.
Whilst you are choosing a course to study in the UK, you should ensure that the university in which you are applying has met the standards set by the UK government and education sector.
There are 160 colleges and universities, which are permitted to award a variety of degrees, to most educational aspirants. They are officially recognised by the UK authorities and can award degrees. All universities listed on UKuni.net are recognised higher learning institutions. Students can still take IELTS Academic and use the result to apply to these institutions.
There are over 700 colleges and institutes who do not have degree-awarding power. However, they provide courses leading to a degree. Students need to take IELTS for UKVI or Trinity College exam in order to meet the requirements if they are applying for a language course or a non-degree course provided by the listed institutes above.
UK: There are 10 centres in London, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Belfast, Birmingham and Manchester.
Worldwide: There are 114 permanent centres in major hub cities plus 64 additional “pop-up” centres in other countries.
You can find a list of recognised exam centres around the world providing IELTS for UKVI test.
The cost involved in delivering the test service to UKVI is significantly higher than previously. The fee for IELTS for UKVI globally is £200 plus VAT (where applicable). You can pay the fees in the local currency.
Trinity College exam for Tier 4 student visa, as one of the two secured English Language Tests, costs £180.