English Test for UK Settlement Visa

[Rob180]

Does anyone have any idea how the scoring works for the BULATS test in Vantage Siam, by that I mean the required level is A1, but the scoring appears to range from 0-100 in this test and 0-19 is A1. I'm not quite sure what 0 could mean? Does this mean if you score 0 or 1 you would still meet A1 level? There is apparently no pass or fail score with this test, so does this effectively mean if you complete the test you will achieve A1 level even if your score is 0?

My fiancee sat this test last week and found it quite hard overall, but of course many parts of it are actually not even required for the UKBA. I suppose as she can speak to me in English for an hour on the phone with only a few instances where I have to explain something or use simpler words, I imagine she must have met A1 standard at the least.

The test includes reading and writing as well as speaking and listening as everyone sits the same test whether it is for Visa purposes, employment, or for University entry etc, although the scores for reading and writing are irrelevant for candidates taking the test for UK Visa purposes as the UKBA only require A1 in speaking and listening.

I looked at some of the demo questions on Vantage Siam's website and found questions about arranging business conferences, taking a 'minute' and analysing a pie chart showing the imports and exports of a company! There are people in the UK that wouldn't have a clue how to answer these never mind someone from Thailand! Although I assume these will be the harder questions which someone trying to achieve A1 standard only wouldn't have to worry about?

For anyone thinking about booking a test, you may wish to know that the fee is 7000 baht and tests take place only on Thursdays and Fridays each week in mornings and afternoons. I booked about 10 days in advance.

If anyone can advise regarding the test scoring and what it means etc, I would be much obliged!

Edited September 1, 2013 by Rob180

[PeeJay1959]

Wow, £140 just for the test!!! I'm not sure bout the points for A1, but I'm sure someone will be along soon. But like you say, it's only speaking and listening, I know it's vey low points for visa, If she can speak as you say, no problem.

Pete and Tia

[7by7]

I can't help with the scoring question, I'm afraid; but I do understand your frustration with the nature of the test.

I looked at some of the demo questions on Vantage Siam's website and found questions about arranging business conferences, taking a 'minute' and analysing a pie chart showing the imports and exports of a company!

BULATS stands for Business Language Testing Service, and the tests are geared to that area.

This test is one of the ways of meeting the language requirement for points based work permit and student applicants.

Unfortunately no company in Thailand offers a more basic test suitable for family settlement applicants.

The same as no company in Thailand offers a speaking and listening test only, but insist on family settlement candidates taking and paying for, reading and writing as well.

If she can hold a basic conversation in English with you then she should have been able to pass.

Let us know how she got on

[Rob180]

Thanks 7,yes I'll let you know when she gets the results. I think if it had just been a speaking and listening test, I wouldn't have been concerned at all, but then if that is actually all that matters for the UKBA there should be no need to worry!

cheers