Jump to: Why choose ISE? | Who is ISE for? | Specification | Exam formats and resources | Recognition | Become a centre | FAQs
English qualifications for real-world communication
ISE stands for Integrated Skills in English. It is Trinity’s suite of English language qualifications designed to assess practical English communication skills.
Trinity’s ISE qualifications assess how candidates use English across reading, writing, speaking and listening in authentic, meaningful contexts. They are designed for people who want to demonstrate their English language proficiency for study, work, progression or visa purposes.
ISE reflects how English is used in real life, helping candidates demonstrate their ability to understand, communicate and interact effectively in English.
Why choose ISE?
Preparing for ISE helps candidates develop the practical English skills they need for academic study, employment and everyday communication.
- Assesses reading, writing, speaking and listening
- Focuses on authentic communication and real-world language use
- Helps candidates develop transferable communication skills
- Supports progression to further study, higher education and employment
- Available through Trinity Registered Exam Centres
Who is ISE for?
ISE is suitable for candidates who speak English as a second language and who want to achieve a high-quality, internationally recognised English language qualification.
It is suitable for young people and adults, including learners at school, college or university and people using English as a second or foreign language for study, work or professional development.
Exam formats and resources
ISE is available through two flexible formats. Trinity provides support materials to help candidates, teachers and centres prepare for ISE. Preparation resources may include guidance, practice materials and classroom support, depending on the format selected.
Choose the format below that best matches how you want to take your exam.
ISE Digital
Take one adaptive digital exam
Take your exam digitally at a Trinity-approved centre. ISE Digital is an adaptive test, so candidates do not need to choose a CEFR level before taking the exam.
ISE Paper
Choose a level and take your exam on paper
Take ISE in a paper-based format. Candidates choose the appropriate CEFR level before taking the exam.
Recognition and quality assurance
Recognised worldwide
Recognised by governments, universities and institutions around the world as reliable evidence of English language proficiency. Levels are aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), from A1 to C2.
Quality assured
Regulated by Ofqual in the UK, listed on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) and aligned with the European Qualifications Framework (EQF). ISE A2–C2 exams have also been awarded the ALTE Q-mark, demonstrating that they meet strict quality criteria.
For UK visa and settlement purposes
ISE is a UK government-approved test for settlement and visa application purposes when taken at a Trinity SELT Centre. If you are preparing for ISE as a Secure English Language Test (SELT) for visa or other purposes in the UK, please visit UK visa tests,
Become a Trinity Registered Exam Centre
Trinity Registered Exam Centres gain access to teacher support, study materials and teacher development opportunities. Find out more about becoming a Trinity Registered Exam Centre by clicking the link below.