Begin with your destination, not a guess
The organisation receiving your result decides which test you need. Academic is commonly used for university study and some professional registrations. General Training is commonly used for work, training and migration routes.
- Ask the university, regulator or immigration adviser for the exact test type
- Confirm whether UKVI approval is required
- Write down the overall and individual skill-band requirements
Know what stays the same
Listening and Speaking are the same for Academic and General Training candidates. Reading and Writing are different, so your study material must match the version you booked.
- Both versions report scores on the nine-band scale
- Both assess Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking
- Academic Writing Task 1 is a visual report; General Training Task 1 is a letter
Before paying for your test
Check your English level and sit a timed diagnostic test. A booking date should give you enough time to improve both language and exam technique.
- Use your identification exactly as required by the test centre
- Confirm the venue and whether the test is on paper or computer
- Book only after your preparation plan matches your application deadline