The Trinity B1 GESE Grade 5 exam is a 10 minute speaking and listening test that can be taken at an approved Trinity SELT centre. The test is used to prove your level of English proficiency and is required when applying for:
What is a B1 English test?
A B1 English test is a type of Secure English Language Test (SELT) that is needed for a number of UK visa applications.
The B1 part refers to the level of English you have, as defined by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). The CEFR guidelines say that someone at the B1 level in English can:
- Understand conversations about work, school and leisure-related topics
- Deal with most travelling situations
- Write simple text about topics of interest to them
- Describe their experiences, events, dreams, ambitions and opinions clearly
With a SELT test, there are two types offered by Trinity College London; GESE (Graded Examinations in Spoken English) and ISE (Integrated Skills in English).
What are B1 English tests used for?
B1 English tests are used to assess the level of English proficiency a person has. The level of English language ability needed for a Visa application can vary depending on the immigration route. English language test results are needed for the application process for a number of Visas so to find out which level you need it's best to check the UK Government website.
You will have to pass a B1 English language test if you are applying for:
- Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
- Settlement/Permanent Residency
- British Citizenship (Naturalisation)
How can I prepare for a B1 English test?
The B1 GESE grade 5 is a one-to-one speaking and listening test. These are delivered with Trinity examiners remotely via video conference. If you choose to take your exam in a Trinity SELT centre it will take place on a Trinity tablet device which will be set up by your personal steward.
The exam is 10 minutes long and is split into two parts:
1. Topic
- You will choose a topic to prepare in advance of the test, for discussion with the examiner.
- You must complete a Topic Form in advance and bring it with you to the exam.
- Here is an example of a completed Topic Form.
2. Conversation
- You will have a short conversation with the examiner about two subject areas chosen by the examiner.
- To help you prepare for your B1 GESE Grade 5 Trinity has a variety of preparation materials for you to choose from.
Prepare for your GESE Grade 5 (B1)
What do you need to take to a SELT test?
If your exam is at a Trinity centre you MUST do the following things in order to take your SELT test:
- Take proof of identity (ID) to the SELT test centre. Please read Trinity's Candidate Identification & Security Policy for Trinity SELTs
- Download and complete a Topic Form to take to the exam for discussion with the examiner.
Why choose Trinity for your B1 exam?
Real-life accredited examiners
Trinity College London uses human examiners to run SELT tests. This allows for more flexibility than computer-adapted tests do.
Convenient locations
With over 20 SELT test centres across the UK, Trinity offers tests seven days a week. You can choose from 100's of slots based on the date, time, and location that works best for you.
Learn more
Fast indication of result
Provisional GESE results are emailed by 9am the day after the exam, a link to access your digital certificate is emailed within 4-7 days after the exam date.
Learn more
Trinity Exam protect
For just £30 (on top of your exam fee), Exam Protect will allow you to:
- Book one retake
- Reschedule your test once
“I just finished my B1 test today. I highly recommend Trinity! As soon as you enter their premises the staff are very friendly and well-organised. The examiner made me feel so at ease when talking to her. Everything went smoothly.”
Jocelyn Wood, GESE Grade 5
Trinity SELT Leeds