IELTS stands for the International English Language Testing System. It’s a test that checks how well you speak, read, write, and understand English. Every year, more than 4 million people take the IELTS test, making it the most popular English test in the world for studying abroad and moving to other countries.
The British Council, IDP Education, and Cambridge Assessment English work together to create and run the IELTS test.
How Does IELTS Work?
IELTS is for people who want to study in an English-speaking place, work in or move to an English-speaking country, or get a job where speaking English is needed. Because of this, there are two different types of IELTS tests you can choose from:
| IELTS Academic | IELTS General Training |
|---|---|
| ELTS Academic is one of the two types of IELTS tests. It is designed for people who want to study at a higher education institution, like a college or university, where English is the main language. This test focuses on the kind of English used in academic settings, including reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills needed for studying in an English-speaking environment. This test can help you secure university acceptance, student visas, and prove your English ability to professional organizations. | IELTS General Training measures how well you use English in everyday work situations. It’s often used to show your English skills when you’re applying for a job in an English-speaking company or organization. |
IELTS test format
You can choose to take your IELTS Academic or General Training test either on paper or on a computer at an official test center. Depending on where you live, you might also have the option to take the test online. IELTS checks four important skills:
| Listening | This section tests how well you understand different ideas, recognize people’s opinions, and follow how an argument is built. |
| Reading | This section tests how well you understand the general meaning, main ideas, and details in a text. It also checks if you can understand the author’s hints and opinions. |
| Writing | This section evaluates how well you organize your ideas and write a clear response. It also looks at your use of a wide range of vocabulary and grammar. |
| Speaking | This section tests how well you can share your opinions and information on everyday topics and common experiences. It also looks at how you explain and support your opinions. |
Key facts about IELTS Academic and General Training:
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- Test Length: The test lasts 2 hours and 45 minutes.
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- Test Format: It has 4 sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
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- Scheduling: The Listening, Reading, and Writing sections are all on the same day with no breaks in between.
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- Speaking Section: It can be on the same day or up to 7 days before or after the other sections.
Why choose IELTS?
IELTS is designed to test real-world communication skills and has several important benefits:
Access New Opportunities
IELTS is trusted by 12,000 organizations in over 140 countries. This means you can use it to study at your chosen institutions abroad.
Advance Your Career
Show future employers your English skills with clear and reliable test results.
Work Internationally
The IELTS Listening section features a variety of accents, and the Speaking section tests English used by people from different parts of the world. This helps you prepare for working in an international environment.
Settle in an English-Speaking Country
IELTS helps show immigration authorities that your English skills meet the required standards.
Choose the Test That Suits You
You can take the test on paper, on a computer, or online from home. With many testing dates available worldwide, IELTS can fit most schedules.
Be Confident in Your Results
IELTS is a fair and accurate test. The examiners are qualified and experienced English language experts who focus on your language skills and practical communication abilities.
IELTS is an Accessible Test
There are modified versions of the test available for those with special requirements on test day. These adjustments help ensure fair testing for everyone, no matter their nationality, cultural background, gender, or special needs.
How IELTS Supports Your Visa Application
Immigration authorities in many English-speaking countries require proof of English proficiency for visa applications. IELTS provides this proof.
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- After taking the IELTS test, you’ll receive an official Test Report Form (TRF) with your score.
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- Your TRF is valid for two years and should be submitted to visa authorities to show your English skills.
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- Different visas have different IELTS score requirements, so make sure to check the score you need for your specific visa.
Visa Requirements by Country
The IELTS requirements for visas vary by country. Here’s a brief overview for the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, the United States, and New Zealand
The United Kingdom
If you want to move to the United Kingdom, you need to take the IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), which is approved for visa applications to the UK. You can choose between the Academic or General Training versions of the UKVI test.
The IELTS UKVI tests must be taken at a testing center approved by the UK government.
For family visas, extensions to family, spouse or partner visas, or visas granting indefinite leave to remain or citizenship, the IELTS Life Skills test is also available.
Canada
IELTS is accepted by Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) to prove your English language skills.
For skilled immigration, the Express Entry system requires proof of English or French proficiency. If you’re applying for a study permit, work visa, professional registration, or permanent residence in Canada, you will likely need to include your IELTS test results with your application.
Australia
IELTS is a preferred English language test for employers and the Australian immigration authority. If you’re applying for student visas, immigration visas, or general skilled migration visas, you’ll need to provide proof of your English language proficiency with your IELTS results.
The United States of America
Many visa categories in the USA require proof of English language ability, such as for student visas.
However, for some work visas, like H-1B and L-1, proof of English proficiency is not mandatory. Still, having an IELTS score can enhance your chances of a successful application.
New Zealand
Proof of English proficiency is required for work, skilled migrant, and student visas. IELTS is widely recognized and respected in New Zealand and is often the preferred test for universities and employers.
How Does IELTS Compare to Other Popular Tests?
Comparing test scores can be challenging, but IELTS is widely recognized as a leading standard in English language testing. To see the benefits of IELTS, let’s compare it with other popular English assessments.
| IELTS vs. TOEFL | |
| IELTS is recognized worldwide and is not limited to UK English, making it a flexible option for test-takers. Additionally, IELTS offers the choice of taking the test on paper or on a computer, accommodating different preferences. |
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) evaluates your ability to use North American English and is mainly taken on a computer. |
| Both tests aim to measure English language proficiency accurately and fairly, with neither being inherently harder than the other. | |
| IELTS vs. PTE | |
| IELTS Academic assesses your English skills in academic settings, while IELTS General Training tests your ability to use English in practical, everyday situations. | PTE (Pearson Test of English) focuses mainly on academic English. |
| Both tests have the same level of difficulty. PTE is only available as a computer-based test, while IELTS offers the option to take the test either on paper or on a computer. | |
| IELTS vs. C1 Advanced | |
| IELTS tests all key English skills and is widely recognized, with more test dates available throughout the year. | C1 Advanced is a Cambridge exam that evaluates all key English skills. |
| Both are accepted globally. | |
| IELTS vs. DET | |
| IELTS testing is more comprehensive and remains the gold standard for institutions and immigration departments. | DET (Duolingo English Test) is a newer test that offers online, on-demand testing. |
Who Develops and Runs IELTS?
ELTS is managed by three respected organizations in English education:
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- The British Council – A UK-based organization focused on international educational opportunities.
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- IDP IELTS – An educational leader originating in Australia.
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- Cambridge English – A division of the University of Cambridge specializing in English language assessment.
These partners work together on research and with various organizations to help ensure that IELTS test takers are well-prepared for their goals.
Why Choose Star Education and Migration for Your IELTS Test?
From booking to preparation, Star Education and Migration provides a seamless process to help you achieve your desired score. Here’s why millions of people prefer to take their IELTS test with Star Education and Migration:
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- Streamlined Booking Process: Easy and efficient booking ensures a hassle-free experience from the start.
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- Comprehensive Preparation Support: Access to a variety of study materials and expert guidance to help you prepare effectively.
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- Expert Advice: Personalized support and advice from professionals to maximize your test performance.
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- Flexible Scheduling: Convenient test dates and times to fit your schedule.sasa
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- Proven Track Record: A history of successfully helping candidates achieve their IELTS goals.
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- Additional Services: Assistance with visa applications and other related services for a holistic approach to your need.
- Additional Services: Assistance with visa applications and other related services for a holistic approach to your need.