Graded Examinations in Spoken English (GESE)
Trinity’s Graded Examinations in Spoken English (GESE) are one-to-one, face-to-face assessments of speaking and listening skills with a Trinity examiner.
Preparation for these exams and achievement of GESE qualifications supports people wishing to develop their proficiency in English language speaking – for personal goals, study, travel, employment, settlement or for visa application purposes.
GESE exams are available at 12 levels, from Grade 1 to Grade 12 (pre-A1 to C2 CEFR* proficiency levels). Grouped by development stage, GESE grade qualifications offer a progressive framework for the development of English language skills.
Overview and resources
Trinity’s GESE exams are designed to complement general English language courses, and exam preparation focuses on the development of communicative skills and building confidence among candidates.
Though there is no requirement to have passed lower levels, or other qualifications, guidance is offered about the knowledge and skills required at each proficiency level. For full information about the skills covered by this qualification see the GESE Specifications contained in the GESE Exam information booklet
Click on a link below to find teaching and learning resources for each development stage:
| Initial | Grades 1-3 |
|---|---|
| Elementary | Grades 4-6 |
| Intermediate | Grades 7-9 |
| Advanced | Grades 10-12 |
Assessment summary
Contact your Trinity country representative for details about local fees and international availability. See also GESE exam administration for information about arranging exams.
GESE Grade 2, Grade 3 and Grade 5 exams are approved by UKVI for visa or settlement purposes when taken at a UK SELT centre. Information and resources to prepare for these exams are available in the UK visa section on this website.
Results and certficates
Certificates are usually despatched within 6-8 weeks of the exam after results have been approved.
Framework alignment
*GESE Grades 1-12 have been calibrated to the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). See how GESE qualifications align to the Ofqual Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) and the European Qualifications Framework (EQF).
This qualification is regulated by Ofqual and its respective partners in Wales and Northern Ireland.
