All research proposals will be evaluated by the IELTS Joint Research Committee. This comprises representatives of the three IELTS Partners, as well as other academic research experts in the field of applied linguistics and language testing.
All applications received will be treated on a confidential basis. The decision of the Committee is final.
Writing your proposal
Proposals for funding should be no more than 10 pages (2500 words) and should be accompanied by a completed application form.
Your proposal should make it clear how much funding you are applying for, how it will be used, and the duration of the project. We offer funding for periods of one or two years, with research commencing in January and final reports to be submitted by the end of December.
Research proposals should reflect current concerns and issues relating to the IELTS test in the international context.
Evaluation criteria
Proposals will be evaluated against the following criteria:
- relevance and benefit of outcomes to IELTS
- clarity of research rationale, objectives and methodology
- feasibility of outcomes, timelines, and budget
- research ethics and confidentiality process
- qualifications and experience of proposed project staff
- how results will be reported to reach widest audience.
Submitting your application
Please complete your research proposal and application form including the requested details about your research proposal. Please share both documents with our team to submit your application.
Contact details of who to submit your proposal and application form to can be found on the application form.
Access to IELTS test materials and score data
If your proposal is selected by the panel, the funding organisation will discuss data requests with you. These are conducted on a case-by-case basis and research designs are adjusted where necessary.
Timescale for submission and evaluation of proposals
Funding is awarded yearly, with applications opening in April.
Timescale
| April | Applications open |
| June | Deadline for applications |
| July/August | Preliminary review of applications |
| October | Evaluation and selection |
| November | Successful applicants notified |
| January | Research projects begin |
| December | Research reports submitted |