International English Language Testing System (IELTS)

What is IELTS?

IELTS, or the International English Language Testing System, is a globally recognised test that evaluates English language proficiency for academic, professional, and immigration purposes. Established in 1989, IELTS is jointly conducted by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. The test assesses listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills in English across a 2-hour 45-minute exam. It offers paper-based, computer-delivered, and online formats, with scores ranging from 0 to 9 bands. IELTS is accepted by universities, employers, and visa authorities in over 140 countries. Test results are valid for 2 years, with no mandatory retake waiting period, allowing flexibility for aspiring candidates.

Goals & Purpose

Assesses English proficiency for academic, professional, and immigration purposes. Required by universities, employers, and visa authorities worldwide.

Overall structure for  IELTS exam

Types of Questions

Listening: Multiple-choice, sentence completion, matching speakers to statements, note completion, diagram labelling. Reading: True/False/Not Given, matching headings, summary completion, sentence completion, multiple-choice. Writing: Task 1 (describe a graph/chart), Task 2 (essay on a given topic). Speaking: Personal introduction, discussion on a topic, opinion-based questions, cue card response.

IELTS Registration Process

Register online via the official IELTS website or at a local test centre. Choose between paper-based or computer-delivered formats. Provide valid identification and pay the test fee. Receive confirmation and test details.

www.ielts.org

Exam Availability and Retake Policy

Availability:

• Multiple dates, year-round in over 140 countries.

Validity Period

• Results are available online and via the Test Report Form within about 13 days.

Retake policy

• No mandatory waiting period. Can retake as soon as a new test date is available.

Best Preparation Strategy for IELTS

Familiarise yourself with the test format. Practice listening to different accents. Read academic articles and newspapers. Write essays and reports regularly. Speak English daily to improve fluency. Take mock tests under timed conditions.

Countries Accepting IELTS

Australia, Canada, Czech Republic, United Arab Emirates, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Republic of Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Netherlands, New Zealand, Poland, Portugal, Singapore, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland, United Kingdom, United States