The UK Border Agency will on the 12 August 2010 apply new English language tests for students under the Tier 4 (General) of the points-based system.

The change means that if you are a Tier 4 (General) student and will be studying a course that is below the NQF Level 6 (this does not apply to Foundation Degrees or English language courses) and you are using a confirmation of acceptance for your studies that is issued on or after 12 August 2010 then your sponsor must ensure that you are competent in the English language at a minimum level of B1 on the Common European Framework of Reference by showing the following:

Student is from a majority English speaking country

Student has successfully completed a course as a Tier 4 (Child) student (or student rules that were in force before March 31 2009 apply if permission to stay was granted while student was under 18) that lasted at least six months and ended not more than two years before the date when the CAS is given or;

Student has passed an English language test with an approved test provider for Tier 4 and you have achieved a minimum CEFR Level B1 in all the four components required that is reading, writing, speaking and listening.

Lorin Sulaiman, Ergen & Sharif