All you need to know about International English Language Testing System (IELTS)

Understand the International English Language Testing System (IELTS)

Canada February 13, 2023

0 54 4 minutes read

Understand the International English Language Testing System (IELTS)

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is one of the most widely recognized and respected English language proficiency tests in the world.

It is recognized by over 10,000 organizations globally, including universities, colleges, employers, and immigration authorities.

If you’re preparing for IELTS, it’s important to understand the different types of exams, test centers, and the importance of a high score.

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Types of IELTS exams

1. IELTS Academic

This test is designed for individuals who want to study at a tertiary level institution or pursue professional registration.

It assesses your English language ability in an academic context, including writing academic-style essays, reading and understanding academic texts, and participating in academic discussions.

2. IELTS General Training

This test is designed for individuals who want to migrate to an English-speaking country, such as the UK, Australia, Canada, or New Zealand, or to pursue secondary education or work experience in an English-speaking country.

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It assesses your English language ability in a practical, everyday context, including writing letters, reading and understanding texts, and participating in everyday conversations.

Test Centers

IELTS exams are available at more than 1,200 test centers in 140 countries. You can find the nearest test center by visiting the IELTS website and searching for test centers in your location.

It is important to select a test center that is convenient for you and offers the type of IELTS exam that you need.

Exam Setting

The IELTS exam consists of four parts: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.

The exam is designed to assess your ability to use English in real-life situations, such as communicating with others, reading and writing in English, and listening to and understanding spoken English. The total time for the exam is 2 hours and 45 minutes.

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1. Listening

The Listening test is 30 minutes long and consists of four sections. You will listen to a variety of accents and situations, such as conversations, lectures, and announcements, and answer questions based on what you hear.

2. Reading

The Reading test is 60 minutes long and consists of three sections. You will read texts of various lengths and genres, such as academic texts, newspapers, and magazines, and answer questions based on what you read.

3. Writing

The Writing test is 60 minutes long and consists of two tasks. In Task 1, you will write a report based on visual information, such as a graph, chart, or table. In Task 2, you will write an essay in response to an argument or opinion.

4. Speaking

The Speaking test is 11-14 minutes long and consists of three parts. In Part 1, you will answer questions about yourself and your daily life. In Part 2, you will speak for one minute about a topic that is given to you. In Part 3, you will have a conversation with the examiner about the topic you discussed in Part 2.

Paper-Based vs. Computer-Based IELTS Exam

IELTS offers both paper-based and computer-based exams.

The paper-based exam is the traditional version of the IELTS exam and is still widely used.

The computer-based exam is a newer version of the IELTS exam and is becoming more popular.

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The format of the exam is the same for both versions, but the computer-based exam provides instant results, while the paper-based exam takes up to two weeks to receive the results. You should choose the format that you feel most comfortable with and that best suits your needs.

Why a High IELTS Score is Good

A high score on the IELTS exam can greatly benefit your future endeavors. For example, if you’re planning to study at a university or college in an English-speaking country, a high IELTS score can increase your chances of being accepted into your desired program.

Additionally, if you’re planning to migrate to an English-speaking country, a high IELTS score can increase your chances of being approved for a visa. Furthermore, many employers in English-speaking countries may require a high IELTS score as proof of your English language proficiency.

Sources of Information for IELTS Exam Practice

To prepare for the IELTS exam, it’s important to practice as much as possible. Here are some resources that can help you with your preparation:

1. The Official IELTS Website

This is the best place to start your preparation, as it provides information about the exam format, how to register for the exam, and practice materials.

2. IELTS Practice Tests

You can find practice tests and sample questions on the Official IELTS Website and other websites, such as IELTS Practice Online.

3. IELTS Preparation Books

There are many IELTS preparation books available in bookstores and online, such as the Official IELTS Practice Materials and Cambridge IELTS series.

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4. Online Courses

You can find online courses and tutorials that can help you prepare for the IELTS exam, such as Coursera and Udemy.

5. Tutors and Classes

You can also find tutors and classes in your local area who specialize in helping people prepare for the IELTS exam.

Conclusion

IELTS exam is a valuable tool for assessing your English language proficiency and can greatly benefit your future endeavors.

By understanding the different types of exams, test centers, and importance of a high score, you’ll be well on your way to achieving your desired IELTS score. Make sure to practice as much as possible, using a variety of resources, and you’ll be well prepared for the IELTS exam.