UK Border Agency Approval of City & Guilds IESOL Diploma

Approval of City & Guilds International ESOL (IESOL) Diploma by the UK Border Agency (UKBA)

Approval of City & Guilds International ESOL (IESOL) Diploma by the UK Border Agency (UKBA)

City & Guilds is proud to announce that the UK Border Agency (UKBA), an executive agency of the Home Office responsible for controlling the borders and managing immigration in the UK, has approved the City & Guilds IESOL Diploma as proof of language ability for migrants wishing to work, study and/or live in the United Kingdom.

The IESOL Diploma is now included in the new list of English language tests UKBA has launched for visa applications under Tiers 1, 2 and 4 of the points-based system, and for applications by spouses and partners. This new list is replacing all existing lists of English language test providers.  Only examinations included in the new list will be accepted as part of visa application process.  An overview of the approved levels is shown the table below.

To download the new list of approved English language tests and for detailed guidance on the application process, please visit the UK Border Agency's website: http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/visas-immigration/working/tier2/general/eligibility/englishlanguage.

From April 2011, the following levels of the City & Guilds IESOL Diploma are recognised as minimum level of English language competency, as part of the UK visa applications:

* The IESOL Diploma is issued to learners who have successfully completed the IESOL and ISESOL qualifications at the same level. Issuing of Diplomas requires prior application and submission of results once both ESOL and SESOL tests are passed at the same level.