1. UKVI stands for "UK Visas and Immigration," which is the British government's immigration agency responsible for handling visa applications.

2. On February 20, 2015, the UK government introduced a new requirement that individuals applying for UK visa categories must provide evidence of English language proficiency through a Secure English Language Test (SELT), which must be from a list of approved tests recognised by UK Visas and Immigration.

3. IELTS for UKVI refers to the IELTS tests conducted at centres authorised by UK Visas and Immigration outside the UK. These tests are taken to obtain English language proficiency scores required for visa applications. IELTS for UKVI is specifically endorsed by the UK visa and immigration authorities for use in visa applications.

4. To differentiate between IELTS and IELTS for UKVI:

a. The authorising bodies differ: IELTS is jointly administered by the British Council, the University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate, and IDP Australia.

b. IELTS for UKVI has a higher level of security monitoring and regulation due to direct oversight by UK Visas and Immigration, resulting in different fees and test centre specifications.

5. Despite differences in test venue, cost, and security measures, both IELTS and IELTS for UKVI have identical content, question types, formats, and difficulty levels. The only difference lies in the test result statements, with IELTS for UKVI indicating its specific use for UK visa and immigration purposes.

6. Uses of IELTS for UKVI:

a. Application to pre-sessional English language courses: Students requiring additional English language training before starting their main course must pass an IELTS for UKVI test to meet the language requirements for these courses. Regular IELTS scores are not accepted for pre-sessional course applications.

b. Application to foundation courses: Individuals who need additional preparation due to language or educational gaps before starting undergraduate studies in the UK must complete a foundation course. Success in an IELTS for UKVI test is often a requirement for admission to these courses.