Join family in the UK with IELTS Life Skills
Prepare for the A1, A2 or B1 speaking and listening test with our teachers in Algiers. Here is which level you need and what the test looks like.
What is IELTS Life Skills?
IELTS Life Skills is an English test for people who need to prove their speaking and listening to UK Visas and Immigration.
It does not test reading or writing. The tasks reflect everyday communication in a country where English is spoken.
Which level do you need?
Your visa decides the level. Each level matches a level of the CEFR, the European scale.
Family of a settled person
For a visa to join family in the UK. The test lasts 16 to 18 minutes.
Extension of a family, spouse or partner visa
The A2 test is only offered in the UK. It lasts up to 20 minutes.
Citizenship or indefinite leave to remain
The test lasts about 22 minutes and adds a task where you plan an activity with the other test taker.
The Nest teaches English and does not give immigration advice. Check the UK government website, or ask a regulated adviser, to know which level your visa needs.
What happens in the test
You are assessed on four things: getting information, giving information, speaking to communicate and joining a discussion. Speaking and Listening are assessed together, in one short session.
How to register for the official test
The Nest is not a test centre. Life Skills is offered at selected approved centres only, so check availability before you plan anything.
Check your level
A1, A2 or B1, as your visa requires.
Find an approved centre
Ask the British Council Algeria whether Life Skills is available near you. The A2 level is only offered in the UK.
Get your ID ready
Use a valid passport. Check the documents required with the centre.
Take the test
Ask the centre when results are issued.
Prepare for IELTS Life Skills
We have prepared candidates for IELTS Life Skills at our school in Algiers, and they have passed the test.
With a teacher
In person in AlgiersLive onlineNo English yet? You can start from zero.
Online practice
Online: coming soonLife Skills practice is coming to the platform.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a reading or writing test?
No. IELTS Life Skills tests speaking and listening only.
Which level should I take?
The one your visa asks for: A1, A2 or B1. Check the UK government requirements for your own application.
Do I take the test alone?
No. You take it with an examiner and one other test taker.
Can I prepare with The Nest?
Yes. We prepare candidates at our school in Algiers or live online, from complete beginner to the level you need. Online practice on the platform is coming soon.
Is The Nest an official test centre?
No. We are an independent preparation school. The official test is run by approved test centres.