IELTS Overview
The IELTS academic and general training tests assess non-native speakers reading, writing, listening, and speaking abilities. The IELTS is roughly three hours long and is mainly for international students applying to college and for people applying for immigrant visas.
IELTS has two modules, one for Academic and the other General Training module. The Academic module is to be taken by those candidates who plan to pursue their studies at undergraduate and postgraduate levels .While, General Training module is a must for the individuals who either intend to take vocational training or wish to migrate.
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What You Get with the Full Course:
Listening
The IELTS Listening section, common for both Academic and General Training tests, consists of four sections with 10 questions each, totaling 30 minutes. Test takers get an additional 10 minutes to transfer their answers. Each section features a unique listening passage with varying subjects and speakers, heard only once. The first two sections focus on general interest topics, including one conversation and one monologue. The final two sections cover academic topics, featuring a conversation (like a student discussion) and a lecture. Question types include multiple choice, chart completion, sentence completion, diagram labeling, and matching.
Reading
This module examines your reading skills. There are several texts offered from different literatures and you are expected to answer a variety of questions based on the text specified within that passage. In the academic module, the reading test has three sections, with 3 texts usually followed by 13 or 14 questions for a total of 40 questions overall. The General test also consists of 3 sections. However, the texts are shorter, so there can be up to 5 texts to read.
Speaking
The IELTS Speaking section, identical for both Academic and General Training, involves a live, recorded interview lasting 11-14 minutes. It is divided into three parts: In Part 1, the candidate answers questions about familiar topics like hobbies and current events. In Part 2, the candidate is given a topic to discuss, with one minute of preparation time. Part 3 involves a deeper discussion of the topic from Part 2, with more complex questions, lasting 4-5 minutes.
Writing
The Academic module consists of two tasks: for Task 1, the test-takers are supposed to describe a diagram, graph, process, or chart; for Task 2- respond to an argument. Two tasks for General Training module: in Task 1-write a letter or explain a situation; in Task 2- write an essay.
Scoring
IELTS scores range from 0 to 9, known as the band scale.
You receive a band score for each module, which means you’ll have individual scores for speaking, listening, reading, and writing.
These scores are then averaged to calculate your overall band score. The score you need will vary based on the requirements set by your university or employer.
In the actual exam, the Listening, Reading, and Writing sections are conducted in sequence. The whole exam lasts about 2 hours and 45 minutes.
Listening
Reading
Writing
Speaking
Additional Information
1. What ID do I need for the test centers?
You need to bring a valid passport as your ID when you arrive at the test center.
2. How soon can I retake the IELTS test?
You can retake the IELTS test as often as needed. It’s recommended to review your results and prepare further before retaking the test.
3. Is the IELTS test completed in one day?
Yes, the Listening, Reading, and Writing sections are completed in one continuous session. The Speaking test may be scheduled on the same day or a different day, depending on the test center.
4. What is the IELTS Speaking test?
The IELTS Speaking test is a one-on-one conversation with a certified examiner. It includes three parts and is recorded using an audio cassette or digital recorder.
5. What materials will I use?
You’ll use resources created by the British Council, along with guidance from a British Council-trained instructor to support your learning.
6. What support is available outside of class?
Outside of class, you’ll receive free practice tests, British Council-approved study materials, and additional self-study resources provided by the British Council-trained instructor.
7. Why are there two versions of the IELTS test?
IELTS offers two versions: Academic and General Training. The Academic test is for those aiming to study at a higher level in an English-speaking country, while the General Training test is for work, vocational training, secondary education, or migration. The Listening and Speaking tests are the same for both versions, but the Reading and Writing tests differ.
8. Who determines the ‘passing’ score for the IELTS test?
IELTS does not have a pass or fail system. Scores are given on a 9-band scale, and each institution or organization sets its own score requirements. Check their requirements to see what scores they accept.
