What is IELTS?

What is IELTS?

The International English Language Testing System or IELTS is one of the most efficient and popular English language proficiency test that is designed for those who want to opt for study, work and migration. Every year, millions of people opt for the test and it’s recognized by more than 10,000 organisations; educational institutions, employers, and governments, in 140 countries globally.

IELTS is jointly owned by British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia and Cambridge Assessment English, which tests the ability of candidates to write, listen, speak and read the English language and the scores are graded on a scale of 1-9.

Recently, following the growing trend of technology, it was announced that the IELTS test will be available on dual modes; paper based and computer based. The candidates can opt their mode of test, depending on their convenience. The content, formal and level of difficulty remain the same for both the modes. In order to study in the UK, it is important that you take the IELTS test that is approved for UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI).

IELTS test format

IELTS is a test that is designed to check the skills of candidates in English reading, listening, writing and speaking. The candidates are required to take the Listening, Reading and Writing tests on the same day, with no breaks in between. However, for the speaking test, they are provided the option to book a slot online according to their preferred date and time.

IELTS Listening test (30 minutes)

Candidates listen to four different recordings and then answer the questions that are asked. Each recording is 30 minutes long.

IELTS Reading test(60 minutes)

The reading test consists of 40 questions that will test the candidates on an array of reading skills.

IELTS Writing test (60 minutes)

In the writing test, candidates are required to complete two tasks with topics on general interest based on the module taken.

IELTS Speaking Test (11-14 minutes)

This is aimed to assess and analyze the spoken English skills of candidates. The test is recorded and conducted in three parts.