IELTS Exam

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Exam

Acroynm

IELTS

Required For

Study/Work Permit in English speaking countries

Mode of taking test

Computer Based
Paper-Pen Based

Test Type

English Proficiency Test

Official Website

https://www.ielts.org/

FEATURED

About IELTS Exam

Why IELTS Test

What are the reasons for undertaking the test?

As a leading assessment for gauging English skills, the IELTS examination is acknowledged by over 11,000 universities worldwide. With over 1000 examination centres spanning more than 140 nations, it is widely accessible. The IELTS assessment is not only crucial for individuals seeking employment or education abroad but also aids students in refining their speaking and writing abilities in English. Proficiency in English assists immigration authorities in verifying an individual’s ability to communicate effectively with locals and minimises potential communication obstacles in the future.

What is IELTS?

About Test

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) stands as the preeminent English language examination. Its purpose is to gauge the linguistic prowess of individuals aspiring to pursue education or employment in regions where English serves as the primary mode of communication. Prominent nations such as the UK, USA, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia recognise the IELTS. The examination evaluates listening, reading, writing, and speaking capabilities within a timeframe of under three hours. IELTS offers two variants: Academic and General Training. While Listening and Speaking components remain consistent across both versions, the content of the Reading and Writing segments varies based on the chosen test. All IELTS examinations encompass the Listening, Reading, and Writing sections, all conducted consecutively without intermission on the same day. The overall duration of the test is 2 hours and 45 minutes.

General Facts

IELTS Exam Basics

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Date and Frequency

IELTS exam dates are available up to 4 times per month, totaling 48 fixed test dates in a calendar year. The availability of IELTS dates in UK may vary for the Academic and General Training modules.
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Eligibility

You need to possess a valid passport and be at least 16 years old.
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Center and Admit Card

The IELTS Exam is available in over 50 test city locations throughout UK. No admission card is issued for the IELTS.
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Result

IELTS Exam results are typically issued 13 calendar days after the paper-based test and 5-7 calendar days for the computer-based test. Candidates will receive only ONE original Test Report Form (TRF).
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Score Reporting

An examinee can ask for up to 5 extra TRFs to be forwarded to Receiving Institutions (universities, professional bodies, etc) within 1 month of sitting the IELTS exam. TRFs dispatched by courier will be handled via DHL, with students incurring related charges. If the Receiving Institution permits electronic score submissions, this can be arranged at no cost through the IDP IELTS office.
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Score Validity

IELTS scores are generally valid for up to two years from the test date. However, individual institutions or organisations may have their own policies regarding score expiration.

IELTS TEST FORMATS

Areas to be assessed in IELTS

Reading Section

Duration : 60 minutes.

The Reading section is divided into three parts, each containing a different type of text (e.g., descriptive, factual, discursive, and analytical). There are 40 questions designed to test a variety of reading skills such as reading for gist, reading for detail, skimming, understanding logical arguments, and recognizing writers’ opinions, attitudes, and purpose.
Different formats for Academic and General Training versions.

Score: 0-9

Writing Section

Duration : 60 minutes (20 minutes for Task 1 and 40 minutes for Task 2).

The Writing section consists of two tasks:
1. Task 1: Candidates are required to describe, summarize, or explain information presented in a graph, table, chart, or diagram (for Academic) or write a letter in response to a situation (for General Training).
2. Task 2: Candidates write an essay in response to a point of view, argument, or problem.

Listening Section

Duration : 30 minutes (plus 10 minutes transfer time).

The Listening section consists of four recordings, and candidates answer questions based on these recordings. The recordings include conversations and monologues from everyday social contexts, educational and training contexts, and a speech or lecture on an academic subject.

Score: 0-9

Speaking Section

Duration : 11-14 minutes.

◦ The Speaking section is a face-to-face interview with a certified examiner and is divided into three parts:
1. Part 1: Introduction and interview (4-5 minutes) where candidates answer general questions about themselves and familiar topics.
2. Part 2: Long turn (3-4 minutes) where candidates speak about a particular topic for 1-2 minutes after a minute of preparation.
3. Part 3: Discussion (4-5 minutes) where candidates engage in a discussion with the examiner on more abstract ideas related to the Part 2 topic.

Registration Process

Registration Process

STEP 1: Locate a Test Centre

Find a nearby test centre that administers the IELTS exam. Go to the official website for IELTS or by contacting your local British Council or IDP Education office.

STEP 4: Select the Test Type

Determine whether you intend to take the Academic or General Training version of the IELTS exam. The Academic version is typically for individuals planning to study at a university or institution of higher education, while the General Training version is commonly used for immigration purposes or work-related training programmes.

STEP 2: Check Availability

Once you’ve identified a test centre, check the available test dates and times. Ensure to select a date that suits your schedule.

STEP 5: Provide Identification

During the registration process, you’ll need to upload a clear scanned copy of your valid passport or national identity card. This is crucial as it will be used to verify your identity on the day of the test.

STEP 3: Register Online

Most test centres allow you to enrol for the exam online via their website or the official IELTS website. Create an account if necessary and complete the registration form with your personal details.

STEP 6: Pay the Fee

There is a registration fee for the IELTS exam, which varies depending on your location. You can typically make the payment online using a credit or debit card.

STEP 7: Receive Confirmation

Upon completing the registration and payment, you’ll receive a confirmation email containing details of your test date, time, and location. Ensure to keep this email safe as you’ll need it on the day of the test.

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FAQ

Frequently Asked

1. What is the IELTS exam?
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a globally recognised test designed to assess the English language proficiency of non-native speakers. It is widely used for university admissions, employment, and migration purposes.
2. What are the different types of IELTS exams?

There are two main types of IELTS exams:
• IELTS Academic: For those applying for higher education or professional registration.
• IELTS General Training: For those migrating to an English-speaking country or applying for secondary education, training programmes, or work experience.

3. How is the IELTS exam structured?

The IELTS exam consists of four sections:
• Listening: 30 minutes
• Reading: 60 minutes
• Writing: 60 minutes
• Speaking: 11-14 minutes

4. How can I prepare for the IELTS exam?
Preparation can be done through self-study, attending IELTS preparation courses, or using online resources such as practice tests and study guides available on our website.
5. How much does the IELTS exam cost?
The cost of the IELTS exam varies depending on the country and test centre. Please check the official IELTS website or your local test centre for the most up-to-date pricing information.

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