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IELTS (the International English Language Testing System) is the world’s most popular English language test for work, study and migration. More than 12,000 organisations trust IELTS as a reliable indicator of true-to-life ability to communicate in English
IELTS assesses a test taker’s English language proficiency across four skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking.
Delivered on either a computer or paper, IELTS is the only high-stakes language test recognized for migration across Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. With a focus on human conversations, IELTS was a pioneer of four-skills English language testing more than 30 years ago. IELTS continues to set the standard for English language testing today.
IELTS Test Types
Types of IELTS tests are categorized according to the purpose of taking IELTS
The IELTS Academic test is suitable for those wanting to study in an English-speaking environment or university (higher education). You can also take IELTS Academic for professional registration purposes. The test measures if you are ready to begin studying in English. It features vocabulary that is familiar with an academic setting.
The IELTS General Training test is suitable for those applying to study below degree level. This includes an English-speaking school or college. It can also be taken for work experience or other employment training. IELTS General Training is also required for migration to Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the UK. The test features everyday English language skills that you will need in social and workplace environments.
*If your destination for studying or working is UK, you might need to choose IELTS UKVI.
Please check the condition with your organisation or visa agency.
IELTS Test Format
Candidates are tested on all four language skills – listening, reading, writing, and speaking, respectively. Everyone takes the same Listening and Speaking tests. However, the IELTS Reading and Writing tests are different in the Academic and General Training tests.
What is IELTS?
Find out what you need to know about the IELTS test.
Test types
IELTS Academic: for higher education or professional registration
IELTS General Training: for migration, work, or secondary studies
Ways to take the test
IELTS on paper: answer on paper using a pencil or pen
IELTS on computer: type your answers on a keyboard
Test sections
Listening
Reading
Writing
Speaking
Results
IELTS on paper test: 13 calendar days after the test
IELTS on computer test: most results available within one day
You will receive a Test Report Form (TRF) as official results of your IELTS test
Your TRF can either be in paper form or electronic/online results (eTRF)
Scoring
The IELTS test is scored on a 9-band scale ranging from 0 to 9
IELTS gives band scores as whole or half band scores
You will get a band score for each test section and an overall band score for the entire test
The overall band score is the average of the four section band scores rounded to the nearest half band
Acceptance
IELTS results are accepted for study, work, and migration
IELTS is accepted by more than 12,500 organisations in over 150 countries worldwide
IELTS is the only major English test to offer One Skill Retake, which is accepted by more than 1,200 organisations worldwide
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