What is IELTS

What is IELTS? All You Want to Know about the IELTS Exam 

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a widely recognized English language proficiency test. With over 4 million test takers annually, IELTS has solidified its position as the leading English language proficiency test for higher education and global migration on a global scale.

The reach and recognition of IELTS results is truly impressive, with over 11,500 organizations in 140 countries acknowledging their value. These organizations span across various sectors, including education, employment, professional associations, and government bodies. The IELTS examination is a collaborative effort between the British Council, IDP Education, and Cambridge Assessment English.

The content of the IELTS test is carefully crafted by a diverse team of experts from around the world. Through thorough research and analysis, the test is designed to be equitable and impartial, providing a fair assessment for all candidates, regardless of their nationality, background, gender, lifestyle, or location.

How Does IELTS Work?

IELTS is designed for individuals seeking to pursue their studies in an English-speaking setting, secure employment in an English-speaking country, or find a job in their own country that demands English language skills. There are two IELTS tests available for you to choose from:

1. IELTS Academic:

This test can be your key to unlocking university acceptance, securing student visas, and showcasing your English proficiency to esteemed professional organizations.

2. IELTS General Training:

This test serves as a valuable tool to assess your English proficiency and can be used as evidence of your language skills when applying for a new employment opportunity or migrating to a country.

Which IELTS test is Right for You?

When it comes to the IELTS exam, you have the option to choose between the Academic or General Training modules. The choice you make will depend on the specific requirements of the organization you are applying to, as well as your own future plans.

What is the Mode of IELTS Exam?

You can attempt your IELTS Academic or General Training test on paper or computer at an official test centre.

What is the Format of IELTS Exam?

The IELTS exam evaluates proficiency in all four essential language skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. During the test day, you’ll be tackling the Listening, Reading, and Writing tests back-to-back, without any breaks in between. The timing of your Speaking test may vary depending on your test centre. It could be scheduled on the same day as the other three tests, or it could be scheduled up to seven days before or after that. The test can be completed in less than three hours.

More Facts about the IELTS Exam:

Test duration: 2 hours and 45 minutes long.

Test format: 4 sections, including Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.

• The Listening, Reading, and Writing sections take place on the same day with no breaks in between. 
• The Speaking test may be scheduled on the same day or up to 7 days before or after the other sections.

Four Skills in IELTS:

IELTS assesses the four skills given below:

Listening:

This section evaluates your comprehension of concepts, ability to identify viewpoints, and aptitude for tracking the progression of an argument.

Reading:

This section evaluates your reading skills in terms of comprehending the overall meaning, identifying main ideas and details, and recognizing your understanding of the author’s inferences and opinions.

Writing:

This section will assess your ability to effectively organise your ideas and craft a well-written response and your use of diverse vocabulary and strong grammar skills.

Speaking:

This section will evaluate your ability to effectively communicate your thoughts and ideas on various everyday topics and common experiences. It will also be looking at how well you can express and support your opinions.

Why Choose IELTS?

Test for Study:

IELTS is a crucial test for academic purposes. Universities and colleges around the world recognise the value of your IELTS results as proof of your English language skills.

Test for Professionals:

Professionals in various fields can take the IELTS test to meet the requirements of their respective registration bodies. This includes accounting, engineering, law, medicine, nursing, pharmacy, and teaching bodies in many countries. After finishing your studies, it may be necessary to take a test to become professionally registered in an English-speaking country. If you opt for IELTS as your university entrance exam, you’ll gain a solid understanding of the test format, which will come in handy when you take it again for professional registration.

Test for Migration/Permanent Residency:

Governments in numerous countries across the globe have made IELTS a mandatory English language test for individuals seeking permanent residency. It is widely recognised as the most commonly required test for this purpose. IELTS results are accepted by the governments of the UK, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.

How does IELTS help with Visa Requirements?

Many English-speaking countries require individuals to demonstrate their proficiency in the English language as a prerequisite for obtaining a visa. IELTS offers valid proof to support this claim.

1. After completing an IELTS test, you will receive an official Test Report Form (TRF) that contains your IELTS score. 
2. Your TRF is valid for two years and should be submitted to visa authorities to prove your English proficiency.
3. Each visa has its own IELTS score requirements. It’s important that you confirm what score you need to secure your visa.

IELTS Requirements for Visas of Different Countries:

IELTS requirements for the visas of the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand are as follows:

The United Kingdom:

If you’re considering a move to the United Kingdom, it’s worth noting that the IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) has received approval for visa applications to the UK. There are two options available for taking a UKVI test: Academic or General Training.

“When attempting IELTS UKVI tests, it’s crucial to choose a testing centre that has received the stamp of approval from the UK government. This ensures that you’ll be taking your test in a reliable and trustworthy environment”. 

IELTS Life Skills test is an option for you if you’re in the process of applying for a family visa, extension to family, spouse or partner visa, or a visa granting indefinite leave to remain or citizenship.

Canada

IELTS is accepted by Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) as proof of English language proficiency. The Express Entry system serves as the primary route for skilled immigration, placing a strong emphasis on English or French language proficiency. When it comes to applying for a study permit, work visa, professional registration, or permanent residence in Canada, having your test result ready is crucial for your application.

Australia

IELTS is widely regarded as the preferred English language test by employers and the Australian immigration authority. When it comes to obtaining student, immigration, or general skilled migration visas, one crucial requirement is providing evidence of English language proficiency.

The USA

Proof of English language ability is often a requirement for many visa categories in the USA. Take note, my friends, that having a solid grasp of the English language is an absolute must if you wish to obtain a student visa.
In contrast to countries such as the UK or Australia, proof of English proficiency is not required for certain work visas, such as H-1B and L1 visas. Improving your IELTS score can greatly enhance the likelihood of your application’s success.

New Zealand

For obtaining work, skilled migrant, or student visas, providing proof of your English ability is an absolute must. IELTS holds a significant position in New Zealand, garnering recognition and respect from various institutions, including universities and employers. It is widely regarded as the preferred test in these circles.

Comparison of the IELTS Exam with other Language Proficiency Tests:

Comparing test scores can be really challenging, however, IELTS stands out as the benchmark for English language testing. It has gained widespread recognition and is trusted by many. In order to fully grasp the benefits that the test provides, it is helpful to make a comparison between IELTS and other well-known assessments.

IELTS vs. TOEFL

IELTS vs. PTE

IELTS vs. C1 Advanced

IELTS vs. DET

Next Step in your IELTS Preparation Journey 

If you have aspirations of studying abroad or advancing your career, demonstrating your proficiency in English is a crucial milestone on the path to success. With its widespread popularity, IELTS is ready to assist you in your English proficiency journey.