From tier 4 to tier 2 (PhD student waiting for viva)

[ehab]

Hello,

I am currently on tier 4 visa, I've submitted my PhD thesis and waiting for viva which expected to hold after my current visa expires.

I know that tier 4 PhD students who have completed a minimum of 12 months are allowed to switch to tier 2. and luckily, my employer is an A-Rated sponsor, and they are willing to sponsor me.

My question is actually about the English language requirements of the tier 2, am I still required to pass the IELTS test? or being a PhD student for more than 12 months will be considered as a proof of my English language?

Thanks

[manci]

if your degree wasn't taught in English, or if it was but is not recognised by NARIC as equivalent to a UK bachelor's degree, then you will need a level B1 (on the CEFR) English test certificate.

12 months study for PhD makes you eligible to apply for T2G once you have a CoS but it doesn't exempt from the English requirements. See paras 112 - 141 of the T2 policy guidance:
http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/sitec ... idance.pdf