What is IELTS?
IELTS is the International English Language Testing System which
tests English proficiency across the
globe. Conducting 1.9 million tests in 2012 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. To search for a
recognising institution, use the IELTS Global Recognition
System.
Who owns IELTS and who writes the test?
IELTS is jointly owned by British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia and
Cambridge English Language Assessment 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. Note that you must know which version to take
when you complete the IELTS
Application Form (PDF, 273KB).
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.
Find out more and see a test sample.
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. You can order your Official IELTS Practice Materials in one of two ways:
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
test centre when registering. Centres
may need three months to organise arrangements.
Find out more.
