B1 or B2 English Test for UK Visa, Skilled Worker or Settlement? A Complete Trinity SELT Guide

By Hamlets Training Centre Desk

Are you applying for a UK spouse visa, Skilled Worker visa, visa extension or Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)? Not sure whether you need an A1, A2, B1 or B2 English test? This step-by-step guide explains which Trinity SELT examination may be appropriate for your immigration application, the important changes scheduled for 2027, and how to book an English test preparation course with Hamlets Training Centre.

Choosing the correct English language test is an important step in preparing your UK immigration application.

Some applicants need to demonstrate basic English speaking and listening skills. Others must meet a higher English language requirement, potentially including reading and writing. The requirements can also change depending on whether you are applying for your first visa, extending your existing permission or applying for settlement.

For example, an applicant applying for an initial spouse or partner visa may need a different English test from someone extending their family visa or applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain.

Similarly, a person applying for a new Skilled Worker visa may face different English language requirements from an existing Skilled Worker who is preparing to apply for settlement.

The distinction between B1 and B2 is particularly important because of the changes scheduled to take effect on 26 March 2027 for many settlement applicants.

At Hamlets Training Centre, we help learners prepare for Trinity College London Secure English Language Tests (SELTs) at different levels. Our aim is to help prospective candidates understand their preparation options and develop the English skills needed for their chosen examination.

This guide explains:

• The difference between B1 and B2 English tests.
• Which English test may be required for a spouse or partner visa.
• The English requirements for Skilled Worker visa applicants.
• The difference between a visa extension and settlement.
• The changes to settlement English requirements scheduled for March 2027.
• The difference between Trinity GESE and ISE examinations.
• How to prepare for the correct English test.
• How to book a suitable preparation course with Hamlets Training Centre.

Ready to explore your options?

Visit the Hamlets Training Centre English language preparation courses to find out about available courses and enrolment options.

1. What Is the Difference Between B1 and B2 English Tests?

B1 and B2 are English language proficiency levels within the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

The levels describe different degrees of ability in understanding and communicating in English.

However, choosing between B1 and B2 is not simply a matter of choosing the more advanced examination. You must establish which level and which English language skills are required for your particular immigration application.

What is a B1 English test?

B1 is generally described as an intermediate level of English.

At this level, candidates should be able to communicate about familiar subjects, explain their opinions, discuss experiences and understand the main points of clear conversations.

For immigration purposes, a B1 examination may be relevant to certain settlement applications and other routes where the rules specify this level.

One Trinity examination at this level is:

Trinity GESE Grade 5 — B1 Speaking and Listening

This examination assesses speaking and listening rather than all four English language skills.

If your immigration application requires B1 speaking and listening and this examination meets the applicable Home Office requirements, it may be an appropriate option.

Explore the course: B1 English Test — Trinity GESE Grade 5 Preparation for ILR

What is a B2 English test?

B2 is generally described as an upper-intermediate level of English.

Candidates at this level should be able to communicate with greater independence, discuss a wider range of subjects, explain their opinions clearly and understand more complex communication.

The examination you need depends on the skills required by your immigration route.

Trinity offers B2-level English qualifications, including:

Trinity ISE II — B2 Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening

ISE II assesses all four English language skills. It may be appropriate where an immigration route requires a B2 four-skills qualification and the examination meets the applicable requirements.

Trinity has also announced a B2 Speaking and Listening SELT associated with the forthcoming settlement changes, identified as GESE Grade 7. Candidates should confirm the examination’s availability and Home Office acceptance for their intended application before booking.

Explore the B2 preparation course: B2 English Test — Trinity ISE II Preparation

Explore the announced B2 Speaking and Listening preparation course: B2 English Test — Trinity GESE Grade 7 Preparation

B1 versus B2: At a glance

Important: An English examination must meet the precise requirements of your immigration application. A B2 speaking and listening examination is not automatically interchangeable with a B2 examination assessing all four skills.

2. Which English Test Do You Need for a UK Spouse or Partner Visa?

If you are applying to join your husband, wife, civil partner or qualifying partner in the UK, you may need to demonstrate your English language ability.

The required level can depend on whether you are applying for your first family visa, extending your permission or applying for settlement.

A. First spouse or partner visa application: A1

For many applicants making an initial family visa application under the partner route, the relevant English language requirement is A1 speaking and listening, unless an exemption or another applicable provision applies.

A suitable Trinity examination may be:

Trinity GESE Grade 2 — A1 Speaking and Listening

The examination assesses basic spoken English and listening ability.

Candidates preparing for this examination can practise introducing themselves, answering questions about familiar subjects and developing confidence in everyday communication.

Book your A1 preparation course: A1 Trinity SELT Course and Booking Information

B. Spouse or partner visa extension: A2

For many applicants extending their permission under the family route, the English language requirement is A2 speaking and listening, unless an exemption or another applicable provision applies.

A suitable Trinity examination may be:

Trinity GESE Grade 3 — A2 Speaking and Listening

Preparation may focus on everyday conversation, describing familiar experiences, answering questions and understanding spoken English.

Book your A2 preparation course: A2 Trinity SELT Preparation and Booking

Check the available A2 course options and confirm the current timetable before enrolling.

C. Applying for settlement as a spouse or partner: B1 or B2?

Settlement is a separate stage from an initial spouse visa or an extension.

Under the current published rules, many applicants on the relevant family settlement routes must demonstrate B1 speaking and listening, unless an exemption or another applicable provision applies.

A suitable Trinity examination may be:

Trinity GESE Grade 5 — B1 Speaking and Listening

However, changes are scheduled for 26 March 2027.

For many affected settlement applications made on or after that date, the English language requirement will increase to B2 speaking and listening, subject to the applicable rules and exemptions.

This means that applicants preparing for settlement should consider their expected application date carefully.

If your application is expected to fall on or after 26 March 2027, check the new requirements before deciding whether to prepare for B1 or B2.

Explore your B1 preparation options: B1 English Test — GESE Grade 5 for ILR

Explore your B2 preparation options: B2 English Test — GESE Grade 7 Preparation

Official guidance: GOV.UK — Family Life Settlement Rules

3. Skilled Worker Visa: Do You Need B1 or B2 English?

The English language requirements for Skilled Worker applicants depend on the stage of the immigration process and the rules applicable to the application.

It is important to distinguish between:

1. Applying for a first Skilled Worker visa.
2. Extending existing Skilled Worker permission.
3. Applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain as a Skilled Worker.

A. First Skilled Worker visa application

Under the rules introduced for relevant applications made on or after 8 January 2026, many new Skilled Worker applicants are required to demonstrate B2 English proficiency.

The requirement covers all four English language skills:

• Reading
• Writing
• Speaking
• Listening

Where this requirement applies, a suitable approved B2 four-skills qualification may be necessary.

Trinity ISE II is a B2-level qualification assessing all four skills. Applicants must confirm that the specific examination meets the current Home Office requirements for their application.

Explore B2 four-skills preparation: B2 English Test — Trinity ISE II Preparation

Do not assume that a B1 speaking and listening examination will meet a B2 four-skills requirement.

B. Extending an existing Skilled Worker visa

If you already hold a Skilled Worker visa and are applying to extend your permission, do not automatically assume that you must take the same examination as a new applicant.

The applicable requirements can depend on your previous permission, the date of your original application, transitional arrangements and the rules governing your extension.

Some applicants may be able to rely on previously demonstrated English proficiency or other permitted evidence.

Before paying for another examination, check whether you need a new test and, if so, which level and skills are required.

C. Applying for Skilled Worker settlement

If you are already working in the UK under the Skilled Worker route and are preparing for settlement, the requirements may differ from those for a first visa application.

Under the current published rules, many relevant settlement applicants must demonstrate B1 speaking and listening before 26 March 2027, unless an exemption or another applicable provision applies.

The published changes introduce B2 speaking and listening for many affected settlement applications made on or after 26 March 2027.

The distinction is important:

• New Skilled Worker visa: B2 in all four skills where the new requirement applies.
• Skilled Worker settlement before 26 March 2027: Generally B1 speaking and listening under the current published rules, subject to the applicable provisions.
• Skilled Worker settlement from 26 March 2027: B2 speaking and listening under the published changes, subject to the applicable provisions and exemptions.

These requirements should not be confused.

If you already hold a Skilled Worker visa and expect to apply for settlement in 2027 or later, establish which rules will apply to your intended application date.

Official guidance: GOV.UK — Skilled Worker Immigration Rules

4. Important Changes from 26 March 2027: B2 English for Settlement

One of the most important dates for people preparing for settlement is 26 March 2027.

Published immigration rule changes introduce a B2 speaking and listening requirement for settlement on many affected immigration routes.

This change is particularly important for people who have already lived in the UK for several years and are planning to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain.

If your settlement application is made before 26 March 2027

Under the current published rules, many applicants on the affected routes need to demonstrate B1 speaking and listening, unless an exemption or another applicable provision applies.

An appropriate Trinity examination may be GESE Grade 5.

If your settlement application is made on or after 26 March 2027

For many affected settlement routes, the required level will increase to B2 speaking and listening.

Trinity has announced a B2 Speaking and Listening SELT identified as GESE Grade 7 in connection with the forthcoming changes.

Applicants should check the latest official information about the examination’s availability and acceptance before booking.

Which settlement routes may be affected?

The published changes cover a number of immigration routes, including specified applicants under:

• Skilled Worker.
• Global Talent.
• Scale-up.
• Innovator Founder.
• UK Ancestry.
• Long Residence.
• Certain family settlement routes.
• Other specified settlement routes covered by the amended rules.

The same requirement does not necessarily apply to every settlement applicant.

The rules include route-specific provisions and exceptions. Applicants should check the requirements for their particular immigration category rather than relying on a general summary.

Should you prepare for B2 now?

If you expect to apply for settlement on or after 26 March 2027, it is sensible to understand the B2 requirement early.

You can begin developing your English skills and familiarising yourself with the relevant examination format.

However, do not book a test solely because you have heard that B2 will become compulsory. First confirm the correct examination, the skills you must demonstrate and the acceptance requirements for your intended application.

Read the official guidance: GOV.UK — English Language Requirements

Explore preparation options with Hamlets: B2 GESE Grade 7 SELT Preparation Course

5. Trinity GESE or Trinity ISE: Which Examination Should You Choose?

Understanding the difference between GESE and ISE is essential when choosing a Trinity SELT.

Trinity GESE: Speaking and Listening

GESE examinations assess speaking and listening.

Depending on the grade and the applicable immigration requirements, a GESE examination may be suitable for applicants who need to demonstrate a specified level of spoken English and listening ability.

Examples include:

• GESE Grade 2 — A1.
• GESE Grade 3 — A2.
• GESE Grade 5 — B1.
• GESE Grade 7 — B2, for the announced B2 Speaking and Listening SELT, subject to availability and acceptance.

A candidate who needs a speaking and listening examination should check whether the relevant GESE grade meets the requirements of their immigration application.

Trinity ISE: Four English language skills

ISE examinations assess:

• Reading.
• Writing.
• Speaking.
• Listening.

Examples include:

• ISE I — B1.
• ISE II — B2.

ISE may be appropriate for applicants whose immigration route requires evidence of all four skills and whose chosen qualification meets the relevant requirements.

For example, a person applying for a Skilled Worker visa under the B2 four-skills requirement should not assume that a B2 speaking and listening examination alone will be sufficient.

Which examination is right for you?

Ask yourself two questions:

Question 1: What English language level does my immigration route require?

Question 2: Must I demonstrate speaking and listening only, or all four skills?

Once you have answered both questions, check the applicable Home Office rules and select the appropriate approved examination.

Explore Hamlets’ English preparation options: Trinity SELT Preparation Courses

6. Step-by-Step Guide: How to Choose the Correct English Test

If you are uncertain whether you need A1, A2, B1 or B2, follow these steps before booking.

Step 1: Identify your immigration route

Are you applying for a spouse or partner visa, Skilled Worker visa, visa extension, Indefinite Leave to Remain or British citizenship?

Start by identifying the exact application you intend to make.

Step 2: Identify the stage of your application

Establish whether you are applying for the first time, extending your permission or applying for settlement.

These stages can have different English language requirements.

Step 3: Check your intended application date

Your intended application date may be especially important if you are preparing for settlement around 26 March 2027.

Check the rules that apply to your intended application date rather than relying on the requirements that applied to your previous visa.

Step 4: Confirm the required English level

Establish whether the applicable requirement is A1, A2, B1 or B2.

Do not assume that a higher-level examination is always necessary or that a lower-level examination will be accepted.

Step 5: Check which skills you must demonstrate

Determine whether your application requires speaking and listening only or all four skills.

This will help you distinguish between the relevant GESE and ISE options.

Step 6: Check whether you can use existing evidence

Some applicants may be able to rely on a previously accepted qualification or another permitted form of evidence.

Check the rules before booking a new examination.

Step 7: Confirm that the examination is accepted

Make sure that the particular examination, level and skills assessment meet the current Home Office requirements for your application.

Step 8: Choose a preparation course

Once you have identified the correct examination, choose a preparation course that matches its level and format.

Hamlets Training Centre offers preparation options for learners working towards different Trinity SELT examinations.

Browse available courses: Hamlets Training Centre — SELT Preparation

Step 9: Book the correct course

Review the course information, timetable, fees and entry requirements before enrolling.

If you are unsure which course to choose, contact Hamlets Training Centre for information about current course options.

Step 10: Book your official examination separately where required

Joining a preparation course does not necessarily book your official examination.

Check the relevant examination booking arrangements and ensure that you select the correct test.

7. Quick Reference Table: Which English Test Might You Need?

The following table provides a general guide. It is not a determination of your immigration eligibility.

Please remember: The correct test depends on your immigration route, application date, existing evidence, exemptions and the current Home Office rules.

8. Can You Use a Previous English Test for Settlement?

Some applicants ask whether they must take another English examination if they have already passed a test for a previous visa.

The answer depends on the qualification and the rules applicable to the new application.

Before booking another test, consider the following:

• What level did you achieve?
• Was the qualification accepted for your previous application?
• Which English language skills did it assess?
• Does it meet the requirements of your new application?
• Have the applicable immigration rules changed?
• Can you rely on your existing evidence under the current rules?

For example, passing A1 for a first spouse visa does not automatically mean that A1 will satisfy the requirements for a later extension or settlement application.

Similarly, someone who previously passed B1 should check whether that evidence meets the requirements for a settlement application made on or after 26 March 2027.

Do not assume that every applicant must take a new test. Equally, do not assume that an old test will automatically satisfy a new requirement.

Check the official rules before paying for another examination.

9. Do You Need an English Test If You Have a UK Degree?

Not necessarily.

Depending on the immigration route and the applicable rules, some applicants may be able to demonstrate their English language ability through a recognised degree or another permitted form of evidence.

However, the acceptance of a qualification depends on the specific requirements governing the application.

Before booking a SELT, check whether you can meet the English language requirement through an alternative permitted method.

If you cannot establish that your existing qualification is acceptable, do not assume that it will be sufficient.

Official guidance is available at GOV.UK — English Language Requirements.

10. Are There Exemptions from the English Language Requirement?

Some applicants may qualify for an exemption, depending on their age, circumstances and immigration route.

The applicable rules include provisions for certain applicants, such as some people aged 65 or over, applicants under 18 and specified applicants with disabilities or medical conditions that prevent them from meeting the requirement.

The precise conditions must be checked against the rules for the relevant application.

Some immigration routes also have their own provisions.

If you believe you qualify for an exemption, check the official requirements before booking an examination.

An exemption should be established under the applicable rules rather than assumed.

11. How Can You Prepare for a Trinity B1 or B2 English Test?

Once you know which examination you need, the next step is preparing for its format.

B1 Speaking and Listening Preparation

B1 candidates should practise communicating clearly about familiar subjects, expressing opinions and responding appropriately to questions.

Preparation can include:

• Introducing yourself and discussing your background.
• Talking about familiar experiences.
• Expressing opinions and giving reasons.
• Asking and answering questions.
• Listening carefully and responding naturally.
• Practising structured conversations.

Candidates should focus on communicating effectively rather than memorising long answers.

Explore B1 preparation: B1 GESE Grade 5 Preparation for ILR

B2 Speaking and Listening Preparation

B2 preparation involves developing greater confidence in expressing ideas and discussing a wider range of subjects.

Candidates can practise:

• Explaining opinions and supporting them with reasons.
• Describing experiences and comparing ideas.
• Developing answers with relevant examples.
• Responding to follow-up questions.
• Improving vocabulary and grammatical accuracy.
• Listening carefully and responding appropriately.
• Taking part in structured discussions.

Explore B2 speaking and listening preparation: B2 GESE Grade 7 Preparation Course

B2 Four-Skills Preparation

If your application requires all four English language skills, preparation must include reading and writing as well as speaking and listening.

Candidates should practise understanding written texts, organising written responses, identifying information in spoken English and communicating clearly.

Explore B2 four-skills preparation: Trinity ISE II B2 Preparation

12. Book Your English Test Preparation Course with Hamlets Training Centre

Are you ready to start preparing for your English test?

Hamlets Training Centre provides English language preparation options for learners working towards different Trinity SELT examinations.

Whether you are preparing for a family visa, a Skilled Worker application or settlement, choosing the right course starts with understanding the English test you need.

A1 English Test Preparation — GESE Grade 2

For eligible applicants who need A1 speaking and listening for their immigration application.

View A1 SELT Course and Booking Information

A2 English Test Preparation — GESE Grade 3

For eligible applicants who need A2 speaking and listening.

View A2 SELT Course Options

B1 English Test Preparation — GESE Grade 5

For eligible applicants who need B1 speaking and listening, including those preparing for settlement under the relevant rules.

View B1 GESE Grade 5 Course

B1 English Test Preparation — ISE I

For candidates who need a B1 four-skills English qualification.

Visit the Hamlets course pages or contact the centre to confirm current course availability.

Explore SELT Preparation Courses

B2 English Test Preparation — ISE II

For candidates who need B2 reading, writing, speaking and listening for an eligible application.

View B2 ISE II Preparation Information

B2 English Test Preparation — GESE Grade 7

For learners preparing for the announced B2 Speaking and Listening SELT associated with the settlement changes.

Check the latest examination availability and acceptance requirements before booking.

View B2 GESE Grade 7 Preparation Course

How to enrol

Step 1: Identify your immigration route and the English test you need.

Step 2: Visit the relevant Hamlets Training Centre course page.

Step 3: Review the course details, fees, timetable and entry requirements.

Step 4: Complete the online booking process or contact the centre for assistance.

Step 5: Prepare for the examination using the relevant course materials and practice activities.

Important: A preparation course and an official SELT examination are separate. Check the relevant booking arrangements for both.

13. Book Your Official Trinity SELT Examination

Once you have confirmed which examination you need, you can check the official examination booking arrangements.

Trinity SELT examinations are booked through Trinity’s examination booking system.

Use the following link to view the available examination booking options:

Book Your Official Trinity College London SELT Examination

Before completing your booking, confirm:

• The examination level.
• The examination type.
• The English language skills assessed.
• The examination location and available date.
• The identification requirements.
• Whether the examination meets the current Home Office requirements for your application.

If you are uncertain which examination to book, check the official guidance before making payment.

14. Frequently Asked Questions About B1 and B2 English Tests

Q1. Is B1 enough for UK settlement in 2026?

Under the current published rules, many applicants on affected settlement routes need B1 speaking and listening before 26 March 2027, unless an exemption or another applicable provision applies.

The requirement for your particular route should be checked before booking.

Q2. Will B2 be required for settlement from March 2027?

Published changes introduce a B2 speaking and listening requirement for settlement on many affected immigration routes for applications made on or after 26 March 2027.

Some routes have specific provisions or exceptions.

Q3. Do all Skilled Worker applicants need B2?

Not necessarily in the same way.

Many new Skilled Worker applicants are subject to a B2 requirement covering all four skills under the rules introduced in January 2026.

Different rules may apply to extensions and settlement, depending on the circumstances and application date.

Q4. I passed B1 for my previous visa. Can I use it for ILR?

Possibly. It depends on the qualification you hold and the rules applicable to your settlement application.

If you intend to apply on or after 26 March 2027, check whether your existing evidence meets the new requirements.

Q5. Is Trinity GESE Grade 5 a B1 test?

Yes. Trinity GESE Grade 5 is a B1 Speaking and Listening examination.

Whether it is suitable for your immigration application depends on the requirements applicable to your route.

Q6. What is the difference between Trinity GESE and ISE?

GESE assesses speaking and listening.

ISE assesses reading, writing, speaking and listening.

The correct examination depends on the English language skills required for your application.

Q7. Can I prepare for B2 settlement now?

Yes, you can begin developing your English skills and preparing for a suitable B2 examination in advance.

However, check the examination’s availability and acceptance for your intended application before booking.

Q8. Do I need B1 for my first spouse visa?

For many first-time spouse or partner visa applicants, the relevant requirement is A1 speaking and listening, unless an exemption or another applicable provision applies.

B1 is commonly associated with a later stage, such as settlement under the relevant rules.

Q9. Can Hamlets Training Centre help me choose a course?

Hamlets Training Centre can provide information about its English language preparation courses and their levels, formats and availability.

You should confirm the immigration requirement for your individual application through official guidance or an appropriately qualified immigration adviser.

Q10. Does booking a preparation course book my official test?

Not necessarily. A preparation course and the official examination are separate bookings unless the provider explicitly confirms otherwise.

Check both booking arrangements before paying.

15. Final Checklist Before Booking Your English Test

Before booking, make sure you have checked the following:

1. Your immigration route.
2. Whether you are applying for a first visa, an extension or settlement.
3. Your intended application date.
4. The English language level required.
5. Whether you need speaking and listening only or all four skills.
6. Whether you can rely on an existing English qualification.
7. Whether an exemption applies.
8. Whether the examination is accepted for your application.
9. The available preparation courses and examination dates.
10. The relevant course and examination booking arrangements.

If you are uncertain about any of these points, check the official immigration rules before booking.

Choose the Right English Test Before You Book

Whether you are applying for a spouse visa, a Skilled Worker visa, a visa extension or Indefinite Leave to Remain, understanding the English language requirement is an important part of planning your application.

The difference between B1 and B2 is particularly important because the required level can vary between immigration routes and application stages.

The changes scheduled for 26 March 2027 make early planning especially important for many people preparing for settlement.

However, there is no single English test that is suitable for every applicant. The correct examination depends on your immigration route, the stage of your application, the date you apply, the English language skills required and whether you can rely on existing evidence or an exemption.

At Hamlets Training Centre, we encourage prospective learners to establish their requirements, choose the appropriate preparation course and develop their English skills with confidence.

Start Your English Test Preparation Today

Not sure whether you need B1 or B2? Explore our Trinity SELT preparation courses and find out which study options may suit your needs.

Browse English Test Preparation Courses:
https://hamlets.org.uk/secure-english-language-tests/

View B1 GESE Grade 5 Preparation:
https://hamlets.org.uk/b1-english-test-gese-grade-5-trinity-selt-ilr/

View B2 GESE Grade 7 Preparation:
https://hamlets.org.uk/b2-english-test-gese-grade-7-preparation-course-trinity-selt/

View B2 ISE II Preparation:
https://hamlets.org.uk/b2-english-test-minister-of-religion-visa-t2/

Book Your Official Trinity SELT Examination:
https://seltbooking.trinitycollege.co.uk/OEWeb/loadExamDtl.do?ref=1-10672392426

Contact Hamlets Training Centre

Hamlets Training Centre Desk

Unit GM2, Montefiore Centre
Hanbury Street
London E1 5HZ

Telephone: 020 7377 2120
WhatsApp: 07455 695 774
Email: info@hamlets.org.uk

Website: https://hamlets.org.uk/

Evening and weekend course options are available. Please contact the centre to confirm current availability. Visits are by appointment.

Check the official rules before booking: This article provides general educational information about English test preparation and immigration requirements. It is not legal or immigration advice. Immigration rules and examination availability can change. Always check the latest Home Office guidance and confirm that your chosen examination is accepted for your intended application.