International English Language Testing System (IELTS)

What is IELTS?

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS), is designed to assess the English language skills of candidates who want to study or work in countries where English is the language of communication. IELTS is conducted jointly by the British Council, the University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations and IELTS Australia.

Who should take IELTS?

Anyone who wants to pursue higher education or a career abroad should appear for the test. IELTS is recognised by universities and employers in many countries, including Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the UK and the USA. It is also recognised by professional bodies, immigration authorities and other government agencies. More than 700,000 people take the test every year.

Who can take IELTS?

Anyone who is about to finish schooling and is above the age of 16 can take IELTS. People with higher educational level and/or experience can also take the test. Unlike, TOEFL, IELTS is not administered online. Results are available usually within a fortnight of the test dates. Candidates are not allowed to reappear for the test within three months at any test centres.

What is the IELTS test like?

The IELTS has two versions - Academic Module and the General Training Module. The Academic Module is intended for those who seek admission to universities and other institutions of higher education. The General Training Module is intended for those planning to undertake non-academic training or to gain work experience, or for immigration purposes.

IELTS test format

The test has four sections - Listening, Reading, Speaking and Writing. Listening and Speaking modules are the same for all candidates. Reading and writing modules are different for academic training and general training. Note that general Training modules may not be available at all the test centres. Students have to specify their choice of test version at the test centre.

Listening - 4 sections, 40 questions, 30 minutes
Speaking - interview, 15 minutes
Reading - different for Academic or General Training - 3 sections, 40 questions, 60 minutes
Writing - different for Academic or General Training - 2 pieces of writing (first for 150 words and second for 250 words), 60 minutes

Listening, Reading and Writing Modules have to be attempted in one day but the Speaking Module can be taken seven days before or after the other Modules, at the discretion of the test centre.

IELTS Score

You get a score between 1 and 9, 9 being the highest you can get. Half scores such as 7.5 are possible. Universities often demand an IELTS score of 6 or 7. They may also demand a minimum score in each of the 4 sections.

Where do I take the test?

IELTS tests are administered at accredited Test Centres throughout the world - there are currently more than 300 Centres, in over 120 countries. There are up to 48 test dates available per year. Each test centre offers tests up to four times a month depending on local demand. At some centres you can take the computer-based version of IELTS. This is only available for academic modules. An exhaustive list of test centres is available at www.ielts.org

Before you are allowed to take the test, you have to apply to a test centre. Submit the IELTS application form in the test centre with the test fee, two passport size photographs and a photocopy of your passport. The test centre will confirm the date and time when you can take your IELTS test.

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