IELTS Overview

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the International English Language
Testing System (IELTS). Whether you’re planning to study, work, or immigrate to an English-speaking country, IELTS is a globally recognized test designed to assess your English language proficiency.

What is IELTS?

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a standardized test that measures the language proficiency of non-native English speakers. It is jointly managed by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia, and Cambridge Assessment English.

Types of IELTS

There are two types of IELTS tests:

IELTS Academic

IELTS Academic

This version is suitable for students who wish to pursue higher education in an English-speaking environment. It assesses whether you’re ready to begin studying or training in an English- speaking institution.
IELTS General Training

IELTS General Training

This version is ideal for candidates who are planning to migrate to an English- speaking country for work or immigration purposes. It focuses on basic survival skills in broad social and workplace contexts.

IELTS Exam Pattern

The IELTS test consists of four main sections:

Section Duration Description
Listening 30 minutes The Listening test assesses your ability to understand spoken English in various contexts. It includes four recorded monologues and conversations.
Reading 60 minutes The Reading test evaluates your reading skills across different text types, including reading for gist, reading for main ideas, reading for detail, skimming, understanding logical argument, and recognizing writers’ opinions, attitudes, and purpose.
Writing Writing 60 minutes The Writing test comprises two tasks: Task 1 (150 words): You are presented with a graph, table, chart, or diagram, and asked to describe, summarize, or explain the information in your own words. Task 2 (250 words): You are required to write an essay in response to a point of view, argument, or problem.
Speaking 11–14 minutes The Speaking test assesses your spoken English skills through a face-to- face interview with a certified examiner. It consists of three parts: Part 1: Introduction and interview (4–5 minutes). Part 2: Long turn (3–4 minutes). Part 3: Discussion (4–5 minutes).

IELTS Scoring System

Band Score Skill Level Description
9.0 Expert User Fully operational command of the language: appropriate, accurate, and fluent with complete understanding.
8.0 Very Good User Very good command of the language: accurate, fluent, and with few errors.
7.0 Good User Good operational command of the language: handles complex language well, with occasional inaccuracies.
6.0 Competent User Effective command of the language: generally handles complex language well, but with some errors.
5.0 Modest User Partial command of the language: copes with overall meaning in most situations, though likely to make many mistakes.
4.0 Limited User Limited command of the language: basic competence is limited to familiar situations, with frequent problems in understanding and expression.
3.0 Extremely Limited User Conveys and understands only general meaning in very familiar situations.
2.0 Intermittent User No real communication is possible except for the most basic information using isolated words or short formulae in familiar situations and to meet immediate
needs.
1.0 Non-User Essentially has no ability to use the language beyond possibly a few isolated words.
0.0 Did not attempt the test or Unable to assess Did not answer the questions.

Mode of Test

IELTS is delivered via two mediums:

IELTS on computer

Take your IELTS Listening, Reading and Writing test on computer. Choose your own test date – up to 7 days a week and 3 times a day.

IELTS on paper

Take your IELTS Listening, Reading and Writing test on paper. Choose from up to 4 test dates a month or 48 dates available throughout the year.

Results

Upon completion of the IELTS test, candidates can expect to receive their results within a specified timeframe depending on the chosen test format:

IELTS on Computer: Test results are typically available within 3-5 days from the test date.

Pen and Paper IELTS: Candidates opting for the traditional pen and paper format can expect to receive their results in 13 days.

Your IELTS result is officially documented in a Test Report Form (TRF). Each candidate is issued only one TRF, which remains valid for a period of two years. If you have designated specific institutions to receive your results, up to five copies of your Additional Test Report Form (ATRF) will be sent to them. Regular postage for

the ATRF is provided free of charge. However, any additional charges incurred for courier services or overseas postage will be the responsibility of the candidate.

Preparation Tips

  • Familiarize yourself with the test format by practicing with sample
  • Develop your English language skills through regular reading, writing, listening, and speaking
  • Consider enrolling in an IELTS preparation course or using online resources to improve your test-taking strategies.