IELTS stands for International English Language Testing System. It is an international standardized test of English language proficiency for non-native English language speakers. It’s jointly managed by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia and Cambridge Assessment English, and was established in 1989.
What Is IELTS Purpose?
The International English Language Test (IELTS) is designed to help you work, study or migrate to a country where English is the native language. This includes countries such as Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK and the USA. Your ability to listen, read, write and speak in English will be assessed during the test.
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Who Is Eligible for IELTS?
IELTS Exam Eligibility Criteria
For taking the IELTS Exam, your minimum age should be at least 16 years & you must have a valid passport.
You will be eligible to take the exam if you fall into one of the categories:
- Planning to study in UK/Australia/Canada/New Zealand/USA
- Being a medical professional, planning to work or study further in UK/Australia/USA
- Planning to emigrate to Canada/Australia/New Zealand.
The version of the IELTS exam you need to take will differ based on your purpose of travel/goal:
| Purpose of Travel/Goal | The Version of IELTS applicable |
| To enrol into an academic program in a country, where most communication, if not all, is in English | IELTS Academic |
| For work/work-related training or migration to an English speaking country | IELTS General Training |
Prior to registering for the test, you must check the version required from the organization or institution you apply to and accordingly plan the test.
What Does the IELTS Exam Consist Of?
The IELTS test consists of four sections: Speaking, Listening, Reading and Writing. You will always take the listening, reading and writing parts all on the same day one after the other, with no breaks between them.
Can I Book IELTS without a Passport?
No Passport, No Test Policy: All candidates must bring their original valid passport, a copy of which was submitted with the application, to the speaking test and listening, reading and writing test. If the candidate does not bring their original passport on the test day, they will be refused entry to the test.
Can I Write IELTS Online?
IELTS has set up a new method of taking the IELTS test in your own home. The test is called IELTS Indicator. It is an IELTS test online which you can take at home on your laptop or desktop.
How Long Is IELTS Valid?
2 years.
There are a number of variables affecting the length of time over which an IELTS score remains valid. In general, the result is valid for 2 years. It’s a globally recognized exam. Always check with the institution or government that you are submitting your IELTS certificate to, regarding their views on exam validity.
How Can I Pass IELTS?
Our top 10 tips to prepare for your IELTS exam are;
- Use authentic materials whenever possible; Listen to news and podcasts regularly.
- Make use of model answers
- Make ‘Fair Copies’ of your essays
- Practice makes perfect
- Practice reading in English
- Search for grammar tips online
- Practice writing
- Record yourself
- Learn what your common mistakes are
- Be persistent