IELTS, or the International English Language Testing System, is a standardized test designed to assess one’s proficiency in the English language. This globally recognized test is collaboratively managed by the University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations, the British Council, and IDP Education Australia.
There are two primary versions of the IELTS: The Academic Version and the General Version.
- Academic Version: This version is tailored for individuals aspiring to enroll in universities and other institutions of higher education. It is also suitable for professionals such as medical practitioners and nurses looking to study or practice in an English-speaking environment.
- General Training Version: Designed for those planning to pursue non-academic training, employment opportunities, or immigration purposes.
IELTS holds widespread acceptance, with recognition from nearly all major academic institutions in Australia, Britain, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, and over 1800 academic institutions in the United States. Moreover, it stands as the sole English language test accepted for immigration purposes in Australia and is also recognized by the UK and Canada.
TEST STRUCTURE
The IELTS exam is structured into four distinct modules, each assessing different language skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Test scores are reported in “bands” for both individual modules and the overall test performance.
All test-takers, regardless of the version (Academic or General Training), undertake the same Listening and Speaking Modules. However, the Reading and Writing Modules differ based on whether the candidate is opting for the Academic or General Training Version of the test.
Paper | Content | Time |
Listening | 40 questions | Approximately 30 minutes (plus 10 minutes’ transfer time) |
Reading | 40 questions | 60 minutes |
Writing | 2 tasks | 60 minutes |
Speaking | 3 parts | 11–14 minutes |