SELT Practice
English test for citizenship in the UK
The English test for British citizenship is a speaking and listening test. GOV.UK says you need a B1, B2, C1 or C2 qualification, so B1 is the minimum, as of 9 November 2026. Some people are exempt.
What GOV.UK says
For citizenship (naturalisation), GOV.UK says B1, B2, C1 or C2 speaking and listening. GOV.UK's citizenship and settlement page was updated on 24 September 2026 (GOV.UK).
We found no B2 change for citizenship. The 2027 B2 change covers settlement, not citizenship (HC 1691 memorandum). Read B2 English test for ILR for the settlement change.
This page is general information, not immigration advice. Check GOV.UK for your situation before you book.
Test options at B1
The same five B1 speaking and listening tests are on the GOV.UK list: Trinity GESE Grade 5, LanguageCert B1, IELTS Life Skills B1, PTE Home B1 and PSI Skills for English B1 (outside the UK only). See the table on B1 English test.
Exemptions
GOV.UK lists these exemptions for citizenship: nationals of majority English-speaking countries (Ireland is included for citizenship only), people aged 65 or over, people with a long-term physical or mental condition, and people with an academic degree taught or researched in English, confirmed by Ecctis if it is a non-UK degree (GOV.UK).
Old tests and other qualifications
For citizenship, a B1 or higher qualification that has run out can be used if it was accepted for settlement (GOV.UK). Nationals of other countries must prove English even if English is the main language there. The Life in the UK test is a separate test and is not covered here.
What happens in the test, step by step
- You book a B1 or higher test on the GOV.UK list at an approved centre.
- You speak with an examiner or to a computer, depending on the test.
- You answer listening questions as part of the same test.
- You get a result by email and a reference number if you pass.
- You use the number in your application. The result must be awarded within 2 years before you apply (GOV.UK).
How to practise for B1 speaking
- Talk for one to two minutes about a past event and a future plan.
- Give reasons with because and say what you prefer.
- Practise asking questions back.
You can practise with an AI examiner on this site. It asks questions out loud and you answer out loud.
Not sure of your level? Take the free level check. It takes a few minutes.
Related guides
What English test do I need for UK citizenship?
GOV.UK says a B1, B2, C1 or C2 speaking and listening qualification unless you are exempt. Check GOV.UK for your situation.
Is B1 enough for citizenship?
GOV.UK lists B1 as the minimum level for citizenship. B2, C1 and C2 are also accepted.
Does the 2027 B2 change apply to citizenship?
HC 1691 does not cover citizenship, and we found no B2 change for citizenship. Check GOV.UK for updates.
Which tests can I take?
Trinity GESE Grade 5, LanguageCert B1, IELTS Life Skills B1, PTE Home B1 and PSI Skills for English B1 (outside the UK only) are on the GOV.UK list.
Who is exempt from the English test for citizenship?
GOV.UK lists some nationalities, people aged 65 or over, people with a long-term medical condition and some degree holders. Check GOV.UK for your situation.