Did You Know You Can’t Get UK ILR or Citizenship Without This? | Complete B1 English Test Guide

Summary

The video shares the personal journey of applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK, highlighting the often-overlooked requirement of an English language test. The speaker recounts the experience of preparing for and taking the Trinity College London GES Grade 5 test, offering valuable insights into the process. Emphasizing the importance of clear communication, practice, and choosing a comfortable topic, the video provides encouragement for those preparing for the test. It also reassures applicants that success is more about confidence and clarity than perfection. The speaker's story serves as practical guidance for others navigating this step in their immigration journey.

Takeaways

• 😀 The English language test is a mandatory requirement for the Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) application, alongside the Life in the UK test.
• 😀 Many applicants are surprised by the requirement for an English language test when applying for ILR, assuming they don't need to prove their language skills again after settling in the UK.
• 😀 The English language test can be taken through various approved providers, with Trinity College London being one of the popular choices.
• 😀 The GES Grade 5 test (B1 level speaking and listening) from Trinity College London is widely recognized and meets the ILR language requirement.
• 😀 The exam consists of two phases: a topic phase and a conversation phase, each lasting about 5 minutes. Both focus on clear communication rather than perfection.
• 😀 For the topic phase, you must choose a familiar and personal subject, like your family, to ensure the conversation feels natural and easy to discuss.
• 😀 The conversation phase involves questions about everyday topics, with a focus on engaging in a two-way dialogue with the examiner.
• 😀 Preparing for the test involves practicing speaking about your topic and using different tenses (present, past, future) in conversations, which helps build fluency.
• 😀 The Trinity College London YouTube channel offers helpful sample videos, including both passing and failing examples, to guide applicants on what to expect.
• 😀 The English language test is designed for real-world communication, not academic theory, so daily use of English prepares you better than you may think.
• 😀 If you're applying for ILR as a dependent and didn't submit proof of English during the visa application, the English language test is a necessary step in the process.

Q & A

What is the English language requirement for applying for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) in the UK?

To apply for ILR in the UK, applicants are required to take an English language test, unless they already have a UK degree that exempts them from this requirement. The test typically involves speaking and listening at a B1 level, such as the GES grade 5 test from Trinity College London.

Why was the English language test a surprise to the applicant?

The applicant initially assumed that once they had settled in the UK, there would be no need to prove their English skills again. However, they learned that both the life in the UK test and an English language test were mandatory when applying for ILR.

Which provider did the applicant choose for their English language test, and why?

The applicant chose Trinity College London because they found their process to be smooth and straightforward after researching several approved providers.

What was the specific test taken by the applicant?

The applicant took the GES grade 5 test, which is the B1 level speaking and listening test. This test is commonly used for the English language requirement for ILR.

What is the importance of the topic form in the English language test?

The topic form is essential as it allows applicants to select a subject they are familiar with, making it easier to answer questions during the test. The form includes a main topic and subtopics, helping the examiner gauge the applicant's communication ability.

How did the applicant prepare for the English language test?

The applicant prepared by practicing speaking about their chosen topic, focusing on using present, past, and future tenses. They practiced in everyday conversations with family members and in front of a mirror.

What was the structure of the English language test?

The test lasted about 10 minutes and was divided into two main parts: the topic phase and the conversation phase. The topic phase involved discussing a personal subject the applicant chose, while the conversation phase involved engaging in a more relaxed dialogue with the examiner.

What was the applicant's experience with the examiner during the test?

The applicant described the examiner as friendly and professional, with the conversation feeling natural. The examiner wasn't focused on perfect grammar but on the ability to communicate clearly and confidently.

What advice does the applicant give for preparing for the English language test?

The applicant advises choosing a topic that is meaningful to you, rather than something random. Practicing speaking clearly and consistently, focusing on communication rather than perfection, is key to success.

What does the applicant say about the difficulty of the English language test?

The applicant finds the test to be one of the most straightforward exams they have taken. It focuses on real-world communication rather than academic theory, so those who speak English regularly are likely more prepared than they think.