IELTS and its importance for Admissions in Foreign Universities/Colleges

Introduction:- IELTS is the International English Language Testing System which tests English proficiency across the globe. Conducting 1.4 million tests globally, IELTS is the world’s most popular English testing system.

IELTS tests are held up to four times a month. Test Dates can vary by test locations.

IELTS respects international diversity and is fair to anyone who sits the test, regardless of nationality.

You can choose from two types of IELTS test:Academic or General Training , depending on whether you want to study, work or migrate. Both modules are made up of four parts – Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking.

IELTS results are graded on the unique IELTS 9-band scale.

To help you prepare, IELTS provides test samples and Official IELTS Practice Materials. The test covers the full range of ability from non-user to expert user. You are not limited in how many times you can sit the test.

You can trust the quality and security of IELTS because it is managed by three reputable, international organisations: British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia and the University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations (Cambridge ESOL).

FAQ:-

What is IELTS?
IELTS is the International English Language Testing System which tests English proficiency across the globe. Conducting 1.7 million tests in 2011 globally, IELTS is the world’s most popular high stakes English language proficiency test.

Which organisations accept IELTS?
IELTS is accepted by more than 7,000 organisations worldwide. These include universities, immigration departments, government agencies, professional bodies and multinational companies.

Who owns IELTS and who writes the test?
IELTS is jointly owned by British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia and the University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations (Cambridge ESOL) and offered through over 800 test centres and locations in over 130 countries. International teams of writers contribute to IELTS test materials. Ongoing research ensures that IELTS remains fair and unbiased. Test writers from different English-speaking countries develop IELTS content so it reflects real-life situations.

Why are there two versions of the test?
IELTS has two versions – Academic and General Training. The Academic test is for those who want to study at a tertiary level in an English-speaking country. The General Training test is for those who want to do work experience or training programs, secondary school or migrate to an English-speaking country. All candidates take the same Listening and Speaking tests but different Reading and Writing tests.

Which version should I do?
Read the explanation of the Academic and General Training tests, then contact the organisation or institution to which you are applying to find out what it requires.

What is the test format and how long will it take?
IELTS has four parts – Listening (30 minutes), Reading (60 minutes), Writing (60 minutes) and Speaking (11–14 minutes). The total test time is 2 hours and 45 minutes. The Listening, Reading and Writing tests are done in one sitting. The Speaking test may be on the same day or up to seven days before or after the other tests.

How do I practise and prepare for my test?

The Official IELTS Practice Materials explains the test format in detail and gives you practice tests and answers.

What help is available for disabled candidates?
Test centres make every effort to cater for the special needs of disabled candidates. It is our aim for all candidates to be assessed fairly and objectively. If you have a special need, talk to your local testcentre when registering. Centres may need three months to organise arrangements.