IELTS is a truly global test which reflects and respects international diversity. IELTS has strict test design, development and validation processes. These processes ensure that every version of the test is of a comparable level of difficulty. So every test around the world provides valid, consistent results. The quality of the IELTS testing system is underpinned by an extensive program of research, validation and test development. IELTS test material is developed by Cambridge ESOL using the following stages: commissioning; editing; pretesting; analysis and banking of material; standards fixing; and question paper construction. Test writers from different English-speaking countries develop IELTS content so it reflects real-life situations around the world. It is unbiased and fair to all cultures and countries. In addition to this test development and validation, the IELTS Test Partners commission academic research on aspects of the test and its uses. See the Researchers section of this website.
Click here for a list of
organisations accepting IELTS results.
Guide for organisations
IELTS Scores Explained
Analysis of 2011 results
Quality and Fairness Guide
