FOREIGN nationals and international students seeking to prove their English language skills will now be able to do so at Rugby College.
The introduction of the new ‘Student Visa’ means a wider range of English language qualifications can be studied at degree level or higher, and test centres are no longer required to be UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) accredited.
Rugby College is a registered test centre for the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) – and the college is expecting a surge in interest following the regulation change.
An IELTS qualification can help international students into education, and improve job opportunities for people already settled in the country as local firms and NHS Trusts accelerate recruitment in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The test can also prove English language abilities in support of European citizens in the UK who want to apply for citizenship as a result of the exit from the European Union – which they can do up until June 2021.
Rugby College is part of WCG – formerly Warwickshire College Group – which is accredited to teach English by the British Council. The Technology Drive college is also offering virtual tutoring to prepare candidates for the IELTS test.
Jonathan Vincent, International Recruitment and Services Manager at WCG, said: “An IELTS test result has a wide range of benefits for individuals looking to emigrate, study in the UK or for those already in the country aiming to secure employment opportunities.
“The introduction of the new Student Visa has made the process much easier for new international students. With the removal of requirements to be UKVI accredited there are now more options available to those seeking to gain an IELTS result.
“We are expecting a surge in demand for IELTS tests and tutoring over the coming months as we approach the deadline for Europeans already in the country to apply for their UK citizenship.
“Proving efficiency in the English language is essential for those who are emigrating or have emigrated, it can open many new doors, and we’re pleased that the courses and tests we are able to offer at Rugby College can support this.”
Visit www.wcg.ac.uk/ielts fore more information.
