British language test scandal may affect over 1,000 immigrant visa applications

A scandal involving incorrectly graded English language tests in the UK could impact more than a thousand visa applications. The issue came to light following an investigation by Ofqual, the UK's exam regulator.

According to Ofqual's findings, a total of 93,865 language tests were misgraded between August 2023 and September 2025. The errors stemmed from a computer system used to score listening comprehension and reading tasks. While the incorrect grading did not alter the final results for about a third of the affected individuals, 62,794 test-takers received higher scores than their actual performance warranted.

Of particular concern is the impact on immigration. Ofqual reported that 1,108 individuals who took the Secure English Language Test (SELT) received these erroneous results. The SELT is a mandatory requirement for certain UK visa applications. However, the exact number of these individuals who would have failed the test had it been graded correctly remains unclear.

Cambridge English, which administered the test, acknowledged the irregularity. They stated that the error was identified in September 2025 and Ofqual was subsequently notified. The organization has since invested over six million pounds to rectify the problem, compensate affected individuals, and implement measures to prevent future occurrences.