Are old English exam valids to proof knowledge of the English language?

[jonorl]

Hi

Sorry if this has been asked before. To get the naturalisation I'm required to have a valid qualification to certify my knowledge of the English language. I've passed a B2 exam in 2003, which was a FCE from Cambridge University. Do you happen to know if such qualification is still valid or do I need to spend £150 in a new updated exam?

Many thanks in advance.

[alterhase58]

Unfortunately yes, only qualifications and exam centres from the approved Home Office list are recognised. B1 is the level required. Unless you have a degree from a UK University?

[jonorl]

Unfortuantely no, a degree from Argentina and Germany only. I've done a short course in UCL, but I don't think that qualifies as a university degree.

B2 is better than B1. I'd have thought that Cambridge University is a recognised organisation by the Home Office. My certificate doesn't mention any expiry date. Has anyone had any experience with submitting old English exams?

Thanks

[CR001]

You can only use an English test cert that is currently on the HO approved test provider list.

If yours is not there, you can't use it.

What is your immigration history?

Do you hold ILR under UK immigration rules or PR through EU route??

[jonorl]

According to this Cambridge is a recognised and approved awarding body.

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.u ... ntres_.pdf

Also, according to this: https://www.gov.uk/english-language/app ... ifications

Applying for citizenship
You can use a B1 level qualification that’s run out if you’re applying for citizenship and it was accepted when you settled in the UK.

It doesn’t matter if the B1 level test you took isn’t on the current list of recognised tests. You don’t need to take another test.

My Permanent residency letter said that the UK recognises my settlement on 28/04/2012 (even though I've arrived 3 months earlier). So if I have my B2 approved/recognised test before settling in the country, does this mean that is not valid and I should re take an exam?

I'm here with a German Passport.

[CR001]

You cannot use your test as you did not need to prove English requirement to get PR under the EU route as meeting the language criteria is not a requirement.

You can only use an expired B1 (or B2) test if it was used to meet the English requirement for ILR (indefinite leave to remain) applied for under the UK Immigration route on or after 28th October 2013.

To use Cambridge English Language Assessment, it must be a B1 IELTS Life Skills Test.

[jonorl]

Thanks, I gave them a call and they confirmed that my certificate would have expired after 2 years, so I need to retake the exam.

Does anyone know what's the cheapest available exam?

[CR001]

They are all around £150. Anything cheaper and it is likely not an HO approved test centre.