Skills for English (SELT)

The new name in secure English Language testing

Skills for English tests have been developed by the SQA and PSI to demonstrate English language proficiency for people whose first language is not English. All Skills for English tests have been developed and quality-assured by SQA and are aligned to robust and internationally recognized qualification systems. This ensures that Skills for English tests are of the highest standard for both candidates and institutions

What’s changed?

The UK Home Office has changed the arrangements for people to evidence their English language skills when seeking a visa to study, settle or work in the UK. The Secure English Language Test (SELT) will no longer be delivered exclusively by IELTS outside the UK. From 2020, you will have a choice of four tests, one of which is the Skills for English language test.

Assured by SQA, powered by PSI

Skills for English is the creation of two of the leading names in qualification and certification. The Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) is an international leader in education and qualifications development. PSI Services is a global workforce solutions provider with over 70 years of experience providing worldwide high-stakes testing.

Subject to receiving its permit to operate, in Summer 2020 PSI will launch its Skills for English language test as an approved SELT for UKVI purposes. This will evidence the quality and integrity of this qualification for any institution that needs an assured level of English language proficiency.

Skills for English is entirely computer-based for both two and four facet tests. Reading and listening tests are automatically marked during test delivery; speaking and writing responses are recorded digitally during the test session and marked by trained assessors after test completion. This delivers a more unified student experience, with seamless transition from the testing of one language skill to the next in a single session, and where students can receive their results within 14 days.

PSI’s global network of test centres offers students a wide choice of locations, making the test more accessible and convenient. Additionally, the computer-based format streamlines test delivery, so we can offer many more tests slots with on-demand scheduling.

Your admissions process reflects your institution’s values. An institution that accepts Skills for English is showing prospective students that it is progressive and supportive, that it is keen to accept innovation and new routes to success, and is willing to meet them halfway on their journey.

About the qualification

Skills for English tests have been developed by the SQA and PSI to demonstrate English language proficiency for people whose first language is not English. All Skills for English tests have been developed and quality-assured by SQA and are aligned to robust and internationally recognised qualification systems. This ensures that Skills for English tests are of the highest standard for both candidates and institutions.

The tests cover six levels (A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2) which map to the Common European Framework of Reference.

Who are they for?

The tests do not require any previous work experience, specialist knowledge or vocabulary beyond what candidates may need in their everyday social, academic or professional lives. They are designed to be equally relevant to people wishing to enter the UK to work, access further or higher education, or settle within an English-speaking community as a spouse or partner.

User-centric testing Affair

Everything about the Skills for English journey is designed with the student experience in mind. The student has access to focussed and effective preparation materials and guidance. Students can book online and sit the test within a matter of days, or even hours, at a local test centre giving them
the quickest and simplest route to achieving their English qualification.

CEFR alignments

Skills for English tests are benchmarked against the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) – a standard with wide recognition across the word – with test levels covering all six CEFR levels. At levels A1 and A2, test components cover speaking and listening skills only.