Archive for 'ILR'

UK Home Office Approved English Test

News from Trinity College London:

A number of adjustments to the UK Immigration Rules have recently been announced by Immigration Minister James Brokenshire.

This announcement does not affect Trinity’s GESE and ISE exams, which remain on the UK Home Office list of approved English Language Tests. Please be aware that these exams can only be taken in a Registered Trinity SELT centre if being used for UK visa purposes.

The changes in the Immigration Rules, as described in sections 2.1 and 7.15 from the Statement of Changes, relate to Trinity’s ESOL Skills for Life exams only, and are effective from 1 August 2014.

For full details, please consult the Statement of Changes document on www.gov.uk website.

We are pleased to inform you that if you are applying for citizenship and settlement you can still, at the time of writing, prove this by having: an English qualification at B1 level e.g. GESE Grade 5. Book preparation for your GESE Grade 5 B1 test today in the North of England using this website.

B1 Test for UK Citizenship

The B1 Test for UK Citizenship

Becoming a British citizen is the dream of thousands of immigrants every year. To become a UK citizen, individuals must fulfill the naturalization or testing requirements. An individual may apply for citizenship through naturalization if he or she is over 18, has sound mind, has good character, intends on continuing to live in the UK and displays knowledge of English and has passed the Life in the UK test requirements.

B1 Testing Requirements

In June 2012, the UK implemented new standards that citizenship applicants must achieve. Those pursuing citizenship through Indefinite Leave to Remain or the Naturalization as a British Citizen route must pass the “Life in the UK Test” and “English Speaking and Listening Test” at the B1 level or above. The B1 level is an intermediate level.

Preparing a Topic for the B1 English test

For the speaking component of the test, a candidate must prepare his or her own topic to discuss for five minutes. The topics that a candidate may choose include hobbies, career, holidays and home country. The examiner will discuss the prepared topic with the candidate in English. He or she seeks to make sure that the candidate responds appropriately to questions, clarifies his or her statements and performs the required language functions. The examiner will make sure that the individual is able to talk in future tenses, provides opinions, discusses UK events and also states the reasons for his or her preferences. The candidate must also show that he or she can use proper grammar and expressive vocabulary.

In addition to the candidate’s chosen discussion, the examiner also has five minutes to discuss two chosen topics with the candidate. The examiner may choose two topics from subjects including events, festivals, means of transportation, entertainment, music or personal experiences.

There is no written component of the Home Office approved B1 exam required for UK citizenship at our  SELT B1 test centre in Sheffield for the north of England including South Yorkshire, West Yorkshire, East Yorkshire, North Yorkshire, Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire.

B1 Test Results

Once the B1 test for UK citizenship has been completed, the results will be given to the individual on the same day. Certificates are sent by Trinity College to arrive within 7 days and you should therefore receive your certificate within two weeks. At the test site, one will need to show a current passport on the day of your exam.

B1 Test Preparation

We can help you prepare for the Home Office approved B1 test. Working with us can help you develop confidence in your speaking and listening abilities.

You can book your Home Office approved B1 test or exam preparation here

Applying for UK Citizenship and ILR

Applying for UK Citizenship

Applying for UK citizenship can be a time-consuming process that requires determination, commitment and perseverance. At times, fulfilling the UK citizenship requirements can be difficult and feel overwhelming. Non-English speaking individuals may need to complete the B1 ESOL exam to move forward in obtaining UK citizenship. ESOL stands for “English for Speakers of Other Languages.” Individuals must make satisfactory progress in an ESOL course in order to be considered for UK citizenship.

Most Recent UK Citizenship Requirements

The UK government recently released an announcement that it will be utilizing stricter citizenship requirements for those who wish to become UK citizens. Individuals must demonstrate a mastery of conversational English at the B1 intermediate level and pass the “Living in the UK” test to satisfy the “Knowledge of Language and Life” requirement.

Immigration Minister Mark Harper has publicly stated that British citizenship is a privilege. As such, individuals must demonstrate a commitment to becoming a citizen by understanding the UK’s culture, tradition, customs and English language.

In the past, citizenship candidates had to pass the LITUK test or show a progression in the ESOL course. Now, citizenship candidates must demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of British culture as well as succeed in ESOL for citizenship and ILR.

The Language Component

The UK government will accept several forms of evidence that an individual speaks English. If the individual is applying for citizenship and is from an English-speaking country, this may suffice as evidence that he or she speaks English. Also, those who have physical or mental disabilities will be excused from fulfilling the ESOL requirements. Individuals under the age of 18 and over 65 are also exempt from the language requirement.

Indefinite Leave to Remain in UK

Indefinite Leave to Remain refers to a special immigration status that is given to individuals in the UK. This special immigration status does not have any time limit, and an individual may gain employment while he or she has ILR status.

An individual can obtain ILR status in numerous ways. He or she may be a spouse and live in the UK for a minimum of two years. An individual who has lived in the UK for four years and is part of the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme (HSMP) may also apply for ILR. Individuals who have lived in the UK in excess of four years can visit the www.gov.uk website to learn more about the ILR requirements.

The UK Border Agency may also grant ILR status within its discretion. If an individual has compelling reasons to obtain ILR status, the UK Border Agency may grant it.

Fulfilling the B1 Speaking and Listening Qualifications

Whether one is applying for ILR or permanent citizenship, he or she must take time to prepare for the B1 test English language requirements. Whether one needs to review online study guides or work with a tutor, an individual needs to make sure that he or she is prepared for the citizenship tests. Failing the LITUK or English language citizenship test may prolong the processing time for one’s citizenship application. Our testing centres are available to assist individuals in preparing for ESOL for citizenship and ILR applications. We may also provide specialized help for the LITUK multiple-choice test, written component and verbal component. You can prepare for your B1 ESOL test at our English exam centre.

Applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain in UK

Applying for indefinite leave to remain in UK

Indefinite leave to remain (ILR) can be defined as a status that allows a person to stay indefinitely in the UK without necessarily acquiring full citizenship. Here are the forms those who are applying for indefinite leave to remain can use.

Form SET(F)

For those applying for indefinite leave to remain, there is more than one way to acquire this status. Applicants need to consider their situation and apply with the correct form. Children–including adopted children–under the age of 18 can apply for ILR using Form SET(F) if they plan on living with a parent, parents, or relative who is a resident of the UK. A person’s relative or guardian who is over the age of 18 can also apply for ILR by using Form SET(F).

Form SET(DV)

Those applying for indefinite leave to remain using Form SET(DV) must meet all of the following conditions: (a) must receive permission to stay in the UK for up to 27 months or must be able to extend his or her visit to two years as a partner of a resident; (b) must remain in this relationship he or she was in when they arrive to the UK or must extend his or her stay as the resident’s partner; (c) must present evidence that his or her relationship with the resident is permanently over because of domestic violence.

Form SET(M)

Those who have lived in the UK for two years and has the intention of staying in a relationship with a partner who is also a citizen can apply for indefinite leave to remain by using Form SET(M). However, applicants must have arrived in the UK or applied for permission on or earlier than 8 July 2012. Otherwise, they will have to stay in the UK for five years instead of two.

Form SET(O)

Applicants that need to stay for five years will need to apply to Form SET(O). Furthermore, those who have lived in the UK for more than four years may apply to Form SET(O). This form grants ILR to those who have lived in the UK for four years with a visa that has been labeled under the Highly Skills Migrant Programme (HSMP) and Employment Not Requiring Work Permit. However, his or her visa must have been issued these titles before 3 April 2006.

Five Years and Above

Those who have lived in the UK for five years and have a visa that dictates they are retired and independent or a representative of a business or firm need to apply to Form SET(BUS). Those who have lived in the UK for six years with Discretionary Leave need to apply using Form HPDL. Those who have lived in the UK for ten years without leaving once can apply using Form SET(LR) but must have lived in the country lawfully for those ten years. Those who have lived in the UK for more than ten years will need to live for an additional ten years in order to apply to for ILR.

Requirements can change so you should check current requirements at  https://www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration/settling-in-the-uk or speak to an immigration lawyer.

To get Indefinite Leave to Remain you will normally need to pass the Life in the UK test which examines your knowledge of British customs and traditions. If your age is under 18 years or over 65 years then you do not need to take the test. In addition to the Life in the UK test you will also need to pass English Language Speaking & Listening B1 test. You can register today at our B1 test preparation centre for The Trinity College London B1 test, GESE grade 5 Speaking & Listening exam. This is an English Language Test accepted by the British Home Office and UKBA.

We also offer other ESOL courses and Functional Skills learning and exams.

Official ESOL B1 Test Preparation Sheffield

English B1 Test Preparation Centre Sheffield

You can book your B1 test preparation in Sheffield, South Yorkshire. The speaking and listening English exam, for British Citizenship, Naturalisation, Indefinite Leave to Remain or Spouse/Partner Visa can be taken at the Trinity College official exam centre in Sheffield. There are B1 tests in Sheffield held regularly at Learn for Life Enterprise. This is a well established Sheffield ESOL learning centre which, as it has for many years, specialises in ESOL at all levels including pre-entry, level one, level two and level three. We also teach Functional Skills English

This popular official Yorkshire test centre for Trinity College provides helpful ESOL preparation courses for the A1 test and B1 test in Sheffield. You can also get on-the-day B1 test preparation from experienced tutors. The on-the-day preparation includes practice exam, revision help, exam tips, and topic form help

In addition, the B1 test preparation centre offers preparation classes for the Life in the UK test.  The Life in the UK Preparation Course is for 6 x 2 hours over 3 weeks and you can attend as many as you need, even repeating some if necessary.

You will find the staff at Learn for Life Enterprise very helpful and friendly. They will do their best to look after you and make you feel welcome and at ease for your English exam.

ESOL B1 test Sheffield

The UKBA approved ESOL B1 test is from Trinity College. This is the GESE grade 5 exam in Speaking and Listening at Level 3.  The  B1 test for Speaking & Listening exam  consists of a ten minute one-to-one interview with an official examiner from Trinity College London who undertakes the exam in their official Sheffield B1 test centre.

The B1 test aims to replicate real-life conversation in which the candidate and the examiner exchange and pass on information, share ideas and opinions and debate topical issues.

B1 test Sheffield

This UKBA Home Office approved English Language Test – Speaking & Listening test at B1 entry 3 level is required  for applicants for UK Citizenship. If you are applying for UK Citizenship/British Naturalisation you will also need to pass the Life in the UK test.

Preparation for ESOL B1 test Sheffield

If you wish to prepare for your ESOL B1 test in Sheffield, the optional B1 test Preparation Course is for 4 x 2 hours over 2 weeks. It includes workshops, practice B1 exam and B1 revision material.

A1 Test Preparation

The A1 test is suitable for Spouse and Partner Visas on FLR (M) and suitable for Parents of Dependents FLR (O). This A1 English test is a UKBA Home Office approved Secure English Language Test – SELT – Speaking & Listening test.

If you would like to prepare in Sheffield for your ESOL A1 test, then our A1 test Preparation Course should be suitable for you. It is 4 x 2 hours over 2 weeks which includes useful workshops, practice A1 exam and A1 revision material.
Please note that for Visa purposes you will need to take your A1 exam at a registered SELT centre of your choice.

Booking your ESOL speaking and listening B1 test in Sheffield

You can book your  B1 test preparation in Sheffield, South Yorkshire or speaking and listening exam/test preparation course for B1, A, A2 ESOL or Life in the UK  by clicking here: SHEFFIELD English Exam A1 and B1 preparation courses and B1 Test Preparation Centre Sheffield

We also teach English Functional Skills and Maths Functional Skills in addition we are and official exam centre for Functional Skills exams.

B1 Speaking and Listening Test

B1 Speaking and Listening Test

The B1 speaking and listening test takes the form of a one-to-one interview with the examiner. The exam aims to replicate everyday real-life exchanges in which the candidate and the examiner converse, pass on information, share ideas and opinions and talk about topical issues.

The B1 test consists of the following:

  • greetings and setting at ease
  • Topic
  • Conversation
  • end of conversation and leave taking.

The B1 speaking and listening test requires all candidates to complete two tasks.

1.   Topic

Discussion of a prepared topic.The topic part of the test takes approximately 5 minutes.

The candidate is required to prepare a topic of his or her own choice.  The examiner directs the discussion using the points prepared by the candidate. Candidates should therefore prepare a topic for discussion. For example you could choose one of the following:

  1. Hobbies
  2. Holidays
  3. Career
  4. Home country

Communication Skills for B1 Test

The following skills are looked for by the examiner for the B1 test

  • Show understanding of the examiner by responding appropriately to questions.
  • Give information about the prepared topic in a series of linked long turns about the five discussion points on the Topic form.
  • Answer questions on the prepared topic, and participate in an informal discussion of the topic, during which the examiner will request more information, fact and details.
  • Respond to requests for clarification and give reasons for making particular statements.
  • Ask the examiner at least one question about the topic area.
  • Take the opportunity provided to use the language functions and language items listed below, where appropriate.Language Requirements

This applies to Part 1 – TOPIC and also to Part 2 – CONVERSATION

Language Functions

Language functions tested for B1 are:

  1. Talking about the future – informing and predicting
  2. Expressing preference
  3. Talking about events in the indefinite and recent past
  4. Giving reasons
  5. Stating the duration of events
  6. Quantifying

 Grammar

Grammar tested for B1 includes:

  1. Present perfect tense including use of for, since, ever, never, just
  2. Connecting clauses using because
  3. Will referring to the future for informing and predicting
  4. Adjectives and adverbials of quantity e.g. a lot (of), not very much, many
  5. Expressions of preference e.g. I prefer, I’d rather

Lexis

Lexis tested for B1 includes:

  1. Vocabulary specific to the topic area
  2. Vocabulary specific to the subject areas
  3. Expressions relating to past and future time e.g. two days ago, in the future
  4. Phrases and expressions relating to the language functions listed above

Phonology

Phonology tested for B1 includes:

  1. The correct pronunciation of vocabulary specific to the topic and subject areas
  2. The combination of weak forms and contractions e.g. I’ve been to…
  3. Avoidance of speech patterns of recitation

2.   Conversation

Then the examiner moves on to the Conversation phase, selecting two subject areas for  conversation and discussion from the list provided. This part of the B1 test takes approximately 5 minutes

The examiner selects 2 subject areas for discussion from the list below;

  1. Festivals
  2. Means of transport
  3. Special occasions e.g. birthdays, weddings
  4. Entertainment e.g. cinema, television 
  5. Music
  6. Recent personal experiences

Communication Skills

You, the candidate,  will be required to:

  • Show understanding of the examiner by responding appropriately to questions
  • Respond to requests for clarification and give reasons for making particular statements
  • Ask the examiner at least one question about the subject area

B1 Test Centres

The B1 Speaking and Listening Test is accepted by the Home Office for Settlement / Indefinite Leave to Remain and British Naturalisation applications.

To  find out more about the B1 Test at our “preparing for B1 test centre” please contact us

B1 Speaking and Listening Exam GESE Grade 5

B1 Speaking & Listening exam at GESE Grade 5

The B1 speaking and listening exams take the form of a one-to-one, face-to-face oral interview between the candidate and an examiner. The exam replicates real-life exchanges in which the candidate and the examiner pass on information, share ideas and opinions and debate topical issues.

The candidate introduces a topic of his or her own choice. The examiner directs the discussion using the points prepared by the candidate. Then the examiner moves on to the Conversation phase, selecting two subject areas for discussion from the list provided.

 B1 Exam format

The B1 exam consists of the following:

  • greetings and setting at ease
  • discussion of a prepared topic
  • conversation on two subject areas
  • end of conversation and leave taking.

B1 Speaking and Listening Exam procedure

The examiner begins by greeting the candidate, trying to set him or her at ease and asking to see the candidate’s identification. The examiner asks the candidate for the Topic form and the candidate tells the examiner what he or she is going to talk about.

During the Topic phase, the examiner randomly selects one of the discussion points on the Topic

form and asks the candidate questions and makes comments to facilitate a spontaneous discussion about the prepared topic. This continues until at least four points on the Topic form have been covered. During the Topic phase, the candidate asks the examiner at least one question related to the topic. This phase lasts up to five minutes.

The examiner then closes this phase of the B1 exam and moves on to the conversation.

During the Conversation phase, the examiner selects one of the subject areas listed for the grade and engages the candidate in genuine conversation. This is repeated with a second subject area chosen by the examiner. During the conversation the candidate gives information, makes statements and responds as appropriate. In addition, the candidate must ask the examiner at least one question related to the subject areas being discussed. This phase lasts up to five minutes.

The examiner brings the conversation and the B1 speaking and listening exam to an end.

The B1 Speaking/Listening Exam GESE Grade 5 is a test accepted by the UKBA and Home Office for Settlement / ILR / Naturalisation applications.

To register your interest or find out more about B1 Speaking/Listening exam GESE Grade 5 preparation in a town or city near you please contact us

Settlement and Naturalisation Exams

Settlement and Naturalisation

The British Home Office published a statement of intent on the 8th April 2013 which outlined the changes that have been planned to the requirements for people submitting an application to settle in the UK, or to become British citizens by naturalisation.

Already from 28 October 2013, applicants in both categories are required to pass the Life in the UK Test and additionally to hold a B1 (intermediate) level English language speaking and listening qualification.

This change is to Settlement and Naturalisation Exams is to strengthen the citizenship process. It replaces the previous system which required applicants to take either the Life in the UK test or alternatively to show language progression from one  ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) level to the next.

The Knowledge of Language and Life requirement for Settlement/ILR (Indefinite leave to remain)

Since 28 October 2013, there are two parts to the knowledge of language and life requirement, both of which have to be met by all applicants for settlement, unless the individual is exempt for reasons of particular country of origin where English is predominantly spoken. Applicants will be required to pass the Life in the UK test; and also to have a speaking and listening qualification in English at B1 CEFR or higher, or its equivalent. These English Language Tests are the current requirement for settlement in the UK.

Knowledge of Language and Life requirement for Naturalisation

The Knowledge of Language and Life requirement for naturalisation as a British citizen is just the same as the requirement  for settlement. It means that the same English language qualifications will be accepted for Settlement as for Naturalisation.

 Settlement and Naturalisation Exams – English language qualifications required

There are a range of English language qualifications which will be accepted as evidence that the person applying for Settlement or Naturalisation has met the B1 level Speaking and Listening requirements exams.

These Settlement and Naturalisation Exams include English language qualifications include Speaking and Listening at B1 or above from the Home Office’s approved English Language Test list.

They also include ESOL qualifications at B1 entry level 3 or level 1 or level 2, including Speaking and Listening, that have been regulated by the Ofqual (Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation). 

It is a requirement that the English language qualification must be listed as an ESOL qualification on the Ofqual Register of Regulated Qualifications. It must have been taken in England, Wales or Northern Ireland.  For exams in Scotland to qualify it is required that it is a National Qualification in ESOL at Scottish Qualifications Framework levels 4, 5 or 6, and is awarded by the Scottish Qualifications Authority and taken in Scotland.

For full details of the new requirements, by the UK Border Agency and Home Office, please see the Knowledge of Language and Life in the UK for settlement and naturalisation statement of intent.

To comply with the current requirements for settlement and naturalisation, we offer preparation for Trinity College London’s International ESOL Examinations Grade 5 (ESOL Entry 3 / B1 on the CEFR). These are regulated by the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual) and are mapped to the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) and the National Qualifications Framework (NQF)

You can register on this website for your English exam, the Graded Examinations in Spoken English (GESE) to test your ability in listening and speaking as required for Naturalisation or Settlement (ILR) here. These are at  Grade 5 (ESOL Entry 3 / B1 on the CEFR) approved by the Home Office for use in: Settlement/ILR and Naturalisation applications for the UK made on or after the 28th of October 2013.

The exams are are one-to-one oral exams having conversation for 10 minutes with an official English-speaking Trinity examiner.

For Settlement and Naturalisation Exams please click here to register for preparation for your GESE Grade 5 (ESOL Entry 3 / B1 English exam.

B1 Test ESOL Entry Level 3

International B1 Test ESOL Examination GESE Grade 5 Exam from Trinity College London available to take at an official exam centre nearest to you.

  • Home Office approved English test for Citizenship / Naturalisation / ILR
  • 10 minute one-to-one exam with an official Trinity College Examiner
  • Results same day
  • Certificate sent as quickly as possible often within 7 days

Book your B1 test preparation here

It is now an official requirement that for any applications made for Settlement  or ILR or Naturalisation applications, that are received by the British Home Office on or after 28th October 2013, the applicants are required to pass the Life in the UK Test, as before,
AND ALSO
have a speaking & listening qualification at B1 CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for languages)  or higher, or an equivalent level qualification.

The Trinity College London GESE grade 5 is a speaking & listening exam at B1 level on the CEFR ESOL Entry level 3 on NQF* ( National Qualifications Framework) Speaking & Listening.

(Click here to find the Home Office’s new requirements for Knowledge of Language and Life in the UK for Settlement/ILR & Naturalisation applications made on or after 28th October 2013)

Home Office’s list of approved English tests

English Exam For Settlement. B1 Test  ESOL Entry3 Speaking an Listening – the GESE grade 5 is on the Home Office’s list of approved English tests (see page 35 final entry -Graded Examinationsin SpokenEnglish ): http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/sitecontent/applicationforms/new-approved-english-tests.pdf

This English exam – TCL Entry Level Certificate in ESOL International – Speaking and Listening (Entry 3) is also regulated by OFQUAL – Qualification number 500/1934/X

This GESE grade 5 exam is a speaking & listening exam at B1 level exam in English For Speakers of Other Languages ESOL .

You will have a ten minute interview with a Trinity College examiner on a one-to-one basis. Your result is normally available on the same day and then your certificate is sent to you as quickly as possible often within 7 days.

We offer preparation for these Home Office approved exams regularly –

Prepare for your B1 test for Citizenship / ILR here

or contact us / register your interest in the B1 Test ESOL exam here

B1 Speaking and Listening Exam

B1 Speaking and Listening Exam Requirement

From 28th October 2013, except for certain exemptions if you are from a particular country,  all applicants for settlement or naturalisation as a British citizen will have 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 level CEFR or higher, or its equivalent.

You can see the new requirement from the UK Border Agency and Home Office in the the 8th April 2013 Knowledge of language and life in the UK for settlement and naturalisation statement of intent

Trinity College London’s Graded Examination in Spoken English (GESE) Grade 5 in Speaking and Listening skills is suitable for Settlement (or ILR) and Naturalisation applications made on or after 28th October 2013.

Trinity’s GESE grade 5 is set at B1 level on the CEFR and at ESOL Entry level 3 on the NQF and has also been regulated by  Ofqual – .Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation

This follows the June 2012 announcement from the government (see below) with changes to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR or Settlement) and Naturalisation as a British Citizen routes, that anticipated the new requirements that came into force from October 2013.

This means that now all applications made after the 28th of October 2013 for ILR/Settlement must now pass the Life in the UK Test and have an English language speaking and listening qualification at B1 level or above of the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) unless they are exempt by country of birth.

The official government announcement came in June 2012. It stated 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 a knowledge 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.

Trinity College’s Examination in Spoken English (GESE) Grade 5 in Speaking and Listening skills is a UK Border Agency and Home Office accepted test. you can prepare for this B1 Speaking and Listening Exam which consists of a ten minute interview with an official Trinity Examiner at our B1 test preparation centre.

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