Archive Website of the UK government

Improving your English

If English isn't your main language, you can do a course to help you improve your English. These courses are called ESOL or English for Speakers of other Languages.

Improving your English will make it easier to:

What does an ESOL course involve?

ESOL courses cover:

There are courses at different levels so you'll be able to start at the right level for you.

• National Careers Service course search Opens new window

Where can you get advice?

There are ESOL courses throughout the UK and advice is available to help you choose the right course for you.

For free advice call the Get On helpline. Lines are open from 8.00 am to 10.00 pm, seven days a week.

Advice in other languages

If you'd like advice on learning and careers, you can speak to a Careers Advice Service advisor in the following languages:

The helplines are available from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm from Monday to Friday.

Learning English online

BBC Learning English

News, webcasts, quizzes and message boards for learners of English across the world, plus resources for teachers.

• Learn English with the BBC Opens new window

British Council

Learn English or practise your skills online on the British Council Learn English website.

• Learn English online with the British Council Opens new window

'Life in the UK' test

You take the 'Life in the UK' test if you're applying to be a British citizen and your level of English is ESOL Entry 3 or above.

If your level of English is lower than ESOL Entry 3 and you wish to apply for naturalisation, you will need to attend combined English language (ESOL) and citizenship classes instead.

For advice on how to assess your level of English, phone the National Careers Service. Lines are open from 8.00 am to 10.00 pm, seven days a week.

To talk to someone about the 'Life in the UK' test, call the 'Life in the UK' helpline. Lines are open from 8.00 am to 10.00 pm, seven days a week.

• Life in the United Kingdom test (government, citizens and rights section)

More useful links

• Returning to learning

• Nationality and citizenship (government, citizens and rights section)

• Skills for Life qualifications

Useful contacts