IELTS Exam - Overview

IELTS Accepted Countries

There are many English proficiency tests, but IELTS is one of the most widely accepted. IELTS is accepted as proof of English language ability for study, work and migration in over 140 countries, including Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK and the USA. However, it's important to note that each country has its own IELTS score requirements. So before you take the test, ensure you know the requirements for the country or countries you're interested in.

Advantages of Taking IELTS

1. Globally recognised and accepted:

Organisations that accept IELTS exam span over 140 countries and include universities, schools, colleges, training organisations, government departments, and immigration authorities. With over 3.5 million tests taken each year, IELTS has such a broad range of worldwide recognition and is truly an international English language test.

2. Flexible options to take the test: 

IELTS is offered several times throughout the year so that the candidates can choose a date that works for them. Moreover, candidates can retake the exam as per their requirements and use the test result (scores) they prefer. The only requirement is that they need to pay the retake fee each time. This flexibility makes the IELTS exam one of the most accessible tests available.

3.Reliable and secure:

IELTS is committed to providing a secure testing environment for all test takers. A strict set of protocols governs every aspect of the IELTS test, from prospective test centres to test centre operations and audits. This multi-layered approach also includes working closely with relevant authorities worldwide, such as migration and law enforcement agencies, to detect and prevent cheating or fraud attempts, and many more.

4. Easy rescheduling: 

Selecting a new test date can be done at any time. Three months is typically the maximum time to make a new selection for the test date, and only one transfer per booking is allowed. You can change the date of your IELTS Exam up to five weeks before the initially booked test date, but the decision of the test centre and availability will determine the next available IELTS test date.

5. Quick results: 

You don’t have to wait long to know how you fared in the test. The test results are released quickly—for offline or paper-based IELTS tests, you can expect your results within 13 days, and for online IELTS tests, within 3-5 days from the exam date. 

Why take IELTS?

IELTS is a popular test for those aspiring to move to English-speaking countries like Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK and US. IELTS is an internationally recognised English language proficiency test accepted by over 11,000 organisations across 140 countries, including governments, universities, and employers. This test has become essential for anyone hoping to apply for university courses or jobs abroad in English-speaking countries to demonstrate their English ability.

How to Register for IELTS Exam?

Register for your IELTS exams in a few simple steps:

• Find the nearest IELTS location, or consider taking IELTS online.
• Register and pay online, download the form, and submit the completed copy to your test centre. 
• The test centre will send you a mail of confirmation with the date and time of your test once your application is processed. Your speaking test might be scheduled for a different date.
• You will receive an email confirming your booking for IELTS online test. 

IELTS Exam Eligibility

IELTS exams are designed to test your English language skills, regardless of age, gender or nationality. There are no strict eligibility criteria set by the organising bodies of IELTS except that you should be at least 16 years old to take the exam. The conducting bodies haven’t fixed any upper age limit for the test. 

Documents Required For IELTS Exam 

On the test day, you will need to take a valid passport or National Identity Card as proof of your identity. You must take the same identity proof on your test date as the one recorded in your application. If you have any doubts, you can contact the test centre and confirm which type of identity document they accept. 

Nonetheless, make sure to carry the following documents for the test:

• Valid passport or
• National Identity 

Guidelines for IELTS Exam

Here are some pointers to keep in mind before appearing for the IELTS test:

• Always carry your valid id proof—either your passport or National Identity Card for the exam.
• Arrive early for the test, as latecomers will neither be allowed to take the test nor be refunded. 
• You must leave all your personal belongings and electronics at the designated belongings area. You are only allowed to take in your identity document, standard pen, pencil, eraser and a label-free water bottle.
• If your question paper is incomplete, illegible or if you have received the wrong question paper, inform the invigilator at once. 
• Make sure to attend all test sections, as you won’t receive the IELTS test result unless all sections are attempted. 

IELTS Exam Pattern

IELTS Exam Preparation

Here are some ways to ensure that you are ready to take the IELTS test:

• Review and familiarise yourself with each section's test content, tasks and questions.
• Attempt the sample IELTS test questions to get an idea of what to expect in the four main sections of the exam. 
• Take a timed or untimed IELTS Progress Check, the official online practice test and receive feedback with indicative overall and individual band scores for each section.
• Prepare using the official IELTS Practice materials (book and DVD) to better understand the test format and questions. 

IELTS Exam Duration

The IELTS test lasts for a total duration of 2 hours and 45 minutes. While the  Listening, Reading and Writing tests are done in one sitting. The Speaking test will be held on a different date. 

Results and IELTS Scores

IELTS scores are important for anyone wishing to study or work in an English-speaking country. A high score indicates a good understanding of English and communication ability. Each organisation or institution has its own IELTS score requirements, so make sure to find out what score you need before taking the test. The following table will give you an idea of the different scores and the corresponding level of competency it demonstrates.

IELTS Exam Dates

IELTS exam dates are readily available as exams are conducted at least 4 times a month. Find your suitable exam dates and register now.