A few days ago, we wrote a post announcing the English level requirement change for those applying for a UK Tier 4 GSV. Unfortunately, the UK Border Agency has today released the following statement in a newsletter:
Level of English language study
Following the judgment made in the Judicial Review case brought by English UK, which challenged the method by which the change to the minimum level of study from A2 on the CEFR to B2 was made earlier this year, we have today made a further amendment to the Immigration Rules setting out the minimum levels of study permitted for different course types under Tier 4.
With effect from 23 July 2010, the minimum level of English language course that will be permitted under Tier 4 will be CEFR level B2, restoring the position in place before the judgment was handed down. Please note that the exemptions on the minimum level which applied previously to Government-sponsored language students and those undertaking a pre-sessional English language course before pursuing a degree course remain, and further information is available in the revised guidance.
What does this mean in practice?
What this means in practice is that the English language sector will continue to operate as it has been since March of this year, whereby General Student Visa applicants must be able to follow a course of study at level B2.
Whilst this is obviously disappointing news, we expect that EnglishUK will be considering its options regarding further challenges to this ruling, and we will keep you informed of developments on a regular basis.
If you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to contact us.
hello
can toefl paper based test scoring 540 and twe 5.0 be acceptable for this rule?what do you think? for tier 4 general students. thanks
Hi there, did you take your TOEFL test within the last 2 years? Make sure that you did, as the UKBA only accepts test scores from the last 2 years.
Note that the UKBA requires a minimum of the ff. scores for a TOEFL Internet-based test. They look at the individual scores on listening, reading, writing, and speaking, not just the total score.
Listening – 13
Reading – 8
Writing – 17
Speaking – 19
For more information, have a look at these two links below:
Approved UKBA tests and minimum scores required
TOEFL score conversion table: Internet-based, computer-based, and paper-based scores
Hi Mawris, did you take your TOEFL test within the last 2 years? Make sure that you did, as the UKBA only accepts test scores from the last 2 years.
The UKBA requires a minimum of the ff. scores for a TOEFL Internet-based test. They look at the individual scores on listening, reading, writing, and speaking, not just the total score.
Listening – 13
Reading – 8
Writing – 17
Speaking – 19
For more information on the minimum scores and how your TOEFL paper based scores convert into Internet based scores, have a look at these two links below:
Approved UKBA tests and minimum scores required
TOEFL score conversion table: Internet-based, computer-based, and paper-based scores
i already have a cas number, i did igcse second language and got an (A) and i have A-levels in three different subjects other that english, is that enough for getting a uk student visa
If you already have a CAS number, then that means your sponsor has looked at your English proficiency level and deemed it as sufficient. Good luck with your visa application process!
Hey I have recently completed my A levels!! I have a grade B in my O level English language! I indeed received my CAS 2..would that be enough for the English requirement?
Have you seen our recent post? It lists all the approved English tests and also minimum scores: https://blog.languageinternational.com/approved-ukba-english-tests-and-required-scores-for-uk-tier-4-general-student-visa-gsv
Hi. I just received my toefl(ibt) scored a 75. Reading 16 ; Listening 14; Speaking 24; Writing 21. Is this a B1? And is it enough for the current requirement? Please let me know.
MS George, congratulations! Your TOEFL scores meet the minimum criteria required by the UK government for a Tier 4 visa. In case you’re interested, here are the minimum required TOEFL scores:
Listening – 13
Reading – 8
Writing – 17
Speaking – 19