Overseas students who want to attend UK universities can now use English language certificates to gain UCAS Tariff points, in the same way as they previously did with A levels.

Under the new arrangements, international students applying to UK universities in 2011 will be able to gain UCAS Tariff points if they hold selected high-level English tests from University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations.

Cambridge ESOL’s Dr Mike Milanovic says, “This is an excellent move, which will benefit overseas students, their peers and the university sector as a whole. Each year, thousands of overseas students bring a wealth of cultural experience to UK universities, but it’s essential they have the necessary language skills to cope with the demands of academic life. By awarding points to linguistically competent students who have already proved a high level of English ability, admissions officers will have access to a pool of even more exceptionally talented individuals.”

Dr Milanovic explains that the news reflects a growing trend in the university sector, which has seen language ability being held in the same regard as more traditional skill sets. “More and more universities are recognising the importance of language ability as an essential skill. Last year, over 30 higher education institutions in the UK supported the inclusion of Cambridge ESOL in the UCAS Tariff points system, and I think this news is very encouraging.”

The two Cambridge English language certificates that will be accepted are Cambridge ESOL’s Advanced and Proficiency.