Overview
Graded Examinations in Spoken English (GESE) is Trinity College London's speaking and listening exam. It is a one-to-one conversation with a trained examiner, available in person or online by video. It has 12 grades, from pre-A1 (complete beginner) up to C2 on the CEFR. Trinity states that it is regulated by Ofqual, SQA and Qualifications Wales and holds the ALTE Q-mark, and is accepted for education, employment and visa purposes.
Levels or stages
The 12 grades are grouped into four stages. You enter at the grade that suits your level. Exams last between 5 and 25 minutes depending on the grade.
Initial stage
Unscripted conversation using visual prompts.
Elementary stage
A discussion of a topic you prepare, and a conversation about two subjects the examiner picks from a list.
Intermediate stage
A discussion of a prepared topic, an interactive task where you ask and answer questions, and a conversation about two subjects chosen by the examiner.
Advanced stage
A presentation on a prepared topic, a discussion of that topic, an interactive task, a listening task and a conversation about two subjects chosen by the examiner.
Marking and results
Trinity describes its marking as clear and transparent and promotes fast results and globally recognised certificates. The page used here does not give the grading bands.
How to apply
Use the Book exam option on Trinity's GESE page. Certain grades are accepted for UK visas and immigration only when taken at an approved SELT centre.
Preparation tips
Choose a grade by talking with a teacher; the exam is meant to feel like a conversation.
Prepare the topic discussion at higher grades.
Practise listening and responding without notes.
Does GESE test reading and writing?
No. It assesses speaking and listening only.