Frequently asked questions - Learning English in Yorkshire and the Humber

How can I find ESOL classes that give a qualification?

If you need an ESOL class that gives a qualification you need to search for ‘accredited courses’. All accredited ESOL classes in Yorkshire and the Humber can be found on the LEYH website. Click accreditation in the advanced search and apply the filters to be shown a list of classes that are accredited.

What English certificates do I need for Visas and Immigration?

For different visas you may need different English certificates. If you are not sure please ask at a local advisory service. Go to https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/uk-visas-and-immigration for general information about visas and immigration.

What English certificates do I need for work and study?

If you study English at a provider that gives a qualification then you will receive a certificate. This certificate proves that you have achieved English at a particular level and you can use it to show to your employer or to apply for further study. There are lots of different organisations (awarding bodies) that offer English qualifications. The language provider that you go to will have a particular organisation that they are registered with. Nationally recognised awarding bodies include:

Where can I take the life in the UK test?

To find out where you can take this test go to https://www.gov.uk/life-in-the-uk-test for official providers. If you want to prepare for the Life in the UK test you can search for classes on this website. Go to the search function. Click on advanced search and then check the filter for ‘Life in the UK test’. Results will show any providers that run classes to prepare for the test.

What is IELTS?

IELTS is short for the International English Language Testing System. This is an international standardised test of English language proficiency. It is jointly managed by University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations, the British Council and IDP Education Pty Ltd. IELTS is the world’s most popular high stakes English-language test for study and work. Overseas students from most non-English speaking countries will have to do an IELTS test to prove that their English is of a particular standard in order to be admitted to UK universities. However, not everyone who is a migrant will be classed as an overseas student. If you are a refugee or if you have lived in the UK for more than 3 years you should be classed as a home student. The English language requirements for home students are different and you should check with the university that you are applying to for these requirements. To find out more visit the IELTS Introduction.

Where can I get advice about immigration and citizenship?

To find a regulated adviser in your area go to https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/office-of-the-immigration-services-commissioner or for general advice go to https://www.gov.uk/british-citizenship

What level of English do I need to go to university?

Most universities require home students to have GCSE English as well as other qualifications relevant to the field of study. ESOL Level 1 is equivalent to a 4 at GCSE. ESOL Level 2 is equivalent to 7-9 at GCSE. You should be classed as a home student if you are a refugee or if you have lived in the UK for more than 3 years. If you are a home student then you should check with the university that you are applying to for their English level requirements. Overseas students will be required to achieve a minimum IELTS score by taking an IELTS test. IELTS is short for the International English Language Testing System. This is an international standardised test of English language proficiency. It is jointly managed by University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations, the British Council and IDP Education Pty Ltd. Overseas students from most non-English speaking countries will have to do an IELTS test to prove that their English is of a particular standard in order to be admitted to UK universities. Contact the university you are applying to to find out what English level is required.

What is ESOL?

ESOL stands for English for Speakers of Other Languages and is the name given to English courses for people who are learning English in a country where English is the spoken language. EAL stands for English as an Additional Language and usually refers to English support for children in school who have English as an additional language. EFL stands for English as a foreign language and is usually taught where English is not the spoken language of the country. Often, but not exclusively, EFL courses are aimed more at young students and themes may be more about travel, socialising etc. ESOL themes will be more focused on how to live and be part of the community, for example, registering with a GP, shopping, catching the bus, talking to your child’s teacher, etc.