“UK Plans New English Test (HOELT) – What You Need to Know”

The UK Home Office is in the process of creating its own English language test system—called the Home Office English Language Test (HOELT). This test will be used to assess the English level of people applying to study, work, or migrate to the UK.

🆕 What’s New?

On 2 July 2025, the Home Office launched its fourth round of consultations, now focusing on remote digital testing. They’re exploring how to allow applicants to take the HOELT online from home, using emerging technologies and possibly AI-based systems.

Originally, the plan was for all tests to be done in-person at one of 268 approved centres worldwide, with strict ID checks and live invigilators. Now, the Home Office is considering adding online test options—but only if they can ensure fairness, accuracy, and security.

💡 Why This Matters

This new test, once launched, will replace current Secure English Language Tests (SELTs) like:

• IELTS for UKVI
• Pearson PTE UKVI
• LanguageCert SELT
• Trinity College London SELT

 Will This Affect Pakistani Students?

✅ Yes — Once HOELT is officially launched, Pakistani students applying for:

• Student visas
• Skilled Worker visas
• Spouse/family or settlement visas

…will likely need to take the Home Office’s own test, instead of the usual IELTS UKVI or other SELTs.

However, until the HOELT officially replaces current tests, students from Pakistan and other countries should continue taking the currently approved SELTs.

😟 What Are the Concerns?

According to a YouGov survey commissioned by Cambridge Assessment:

• 40% of the public worry that AI testing will increase cheating
• Others fear that AI can’t accurately judge language skills
• 25% are concerned about limited human interaction and unfairness for those with poor internet or no access to good tech
• Only 8% had no concerns about AI in English tests

These concerns are important, especially for at-home testing, and the Home Office says they’re carefully considering public feedback.

💰 About the Tender

• The project’s contract value was originally £1.13 billion, now reduced to £680 million
• The winner of the contract will:
  • Develop and manage the HOELT system
  • Operate physical test centres globally
  • Possibly introduce secure online testing

🗓️ When Will This Start?

• The Home Office hasn’t announced an official launch date yet.
• The current round of consultations ends 17 July 2025.
• Once finalized, the new test will gradually replace existing English tests for UK visa applicants.

📌 In Summary

The UK is developing its own official English language test—HOELT—which will be required for visa applicants, including those from Pakistan. The government is now exploring how to add remote digital testing but faces public concerns about AI, cheating, and fairness. For now, students should continue to use the existing UKVI-approved tests, but should stay updated as HOELT moves closer to becoming the new standard.