B1 Speaking & Listening exam / B1 test

In June 2012, the government announced changes to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR or Settlement) and Naturalisation as a British Citizen routes, that will come into force from October 2013.

From October 2013, all applicants for ILR/Settlement must pass the Life in the UK Test and present an English language speaking and listening qualification at B1 level or above of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages unless they are exempt.

In June 2012, the government announced, “From October 2013, all applicants for settlement will be required to demonstrate a knowledge of language and life in the UK by passing the Life in the UK test and by presenting a speaking and listening qualification at intermediate level (Common European Framework of Reference level B1) or above. This language requirement, together with acknowledge of the values that underlie British society, will help ensure that those who settle here are able to participate in British life and are better able to gain employment.

The speaking and listening qualification must be secure, robust and generally available in the UK. We will consider these criteria over the coming months and will publish details of acceptable speaking and listening qualifications early next year.“
Now all applicants for settlement or naturalisation as a British citizen will need to meet the knowledge of language and life requirement by:

  • passing the life in the UK test; and
  • having a speaking and listening qualification in English at B1 CEFR or higher, or its equivalent.

For full details of the new requirement please see the 8th April 2013 statement of intent.

Trinity College has announced that their Graded Examination in Spoken English (GESE) Grade 5 in Speaking and Listening skills is suitable for Settlement (or ILR) and Naturalisation applications.

Trinity College GESE grade 5 is set at the B1 test level on the CEFR and at ESOL Entry level 3 on the NQF and has been regulated by the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual). It is accepted by the Home Office for Citizenship for definite Leave to Remain (ILR or Settlement) and Naturalisation routes.

Find more information about ESOL courses and the B1 speaking and listening exam / GESE grade 5 from Trinity College at at our B1 test preparation centre

Find out when you can prepare for the B1 test / ESOL Entry level 3 speaking and listening exam this week.