IELTS
IELTS
Globalisation has opened doors to studying abroad and making a global career. The topmost preferred study destinations include the UK, USA, Australia, Canada, Ireland, and New Zealand where you not only can achieve high-quality education but also experiences unique lifestyles, cultures, and scenic beauty.
These English-speaking countries are home to most of the top universities which attract large cohorts of students from across the globe. To study, work, or live in these countries you will have to take an English language proficiency test such as IELTS.
The International English Language Testing System, or IELTS, is a standardized test designed to assess the English language proficiency of non-native speakers. The test covers the four key English language skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. IELTS scores are widely recognized by 11,000+ organizations worldwide.
Here’s why English language proficiency test is important for studying, working, or living abroad:
- Educational opportunities: English language proficiency tests are often a requirement for admission to English-speaking universities or colleges, and for scholarship or exchange programs. These institutions require proof that students have the necessary language skills to succeed academically.
- Employment opportunities: Many employers require English language proficiency as a prerequisite for hiring, particularly for jobs that involve international communication, such as in business or technology. A good score on an English proficiency test can help job seekers stand out in a competitive job market.
- Immigration: Many countries require English language proficiency as part of their immigration process, particularly for skilled worker programs. This ensures that immigrants have the necessary language skills to integrate into the society and contribute to the economy.
As an English proficiency test, it is designed to evaluate a test taker’s language expertise on a scale of 0-9, with 9 indicating the highest proficiency. The test consists of two types: Academic, which is designed for international study programs, and General Training, which is used for immigration processes.
The primary reasons for IELTS’ importance are its standardised evaluation structure and its strict security measures. The test takes authenticity seriously, performs careful authenticity checks, and features a standardised assessment by certified IELTS examiners. Additionally, IELTS prioritises data security and confidentiality for both the test-taker and the assessor. These aspects ensure that IELTS assesses test-takers fairly and accurately, making it one of the most trustworthy tests available.
IELTS has a global presence and is there in 140+ countries, meaning it is the most popular test that has been trusted by the authorities and has been welcomed in their countries.
It has been a trademark among international aspirants with more than 3 million test-takers every year. IELTS always takes quality and compliance seriously making it convenient and hassle-free for its test takers.
There is 75+ and 250+ test locations for paper-based and computer-delivered modes respectively in India alone covering the major cities.
IELTS test is conducted multiple times in a month. You can also choose your speaking slot at your convenience. You can choose from three test slots available per day and seven days a week.
- Universal acceptance
- Global presence
- Trademark among test takers
- Multiple test locations
- Multiple test dates
Four primary skills are assessed of a candidate: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
- Listening Test (about 30 minutes): It is categorized into 4 sections with a wide range of question types. There are 4 recordings of native English speakers played and about 30 seconds are given before each recording starts to get yourself acquainted with the questions which help you to listen “on purpose” as you get to know what you are looking for and answer the respective question type in a grammatically correct form.
- Reading Test (60 minutes): There are 40 questions. It tests your reading skills where one can be expected to look for the writer’s intent, purpose, arguments, assertions, and conclusions.
- Writing Test (60 minutes): Test taker is required to attempt two tasks; Part 1 and Part 2 where Part 1 constitutes report writing (for Academics) or letter writing (General Training) and Part 2 evaluated your essay writing. One is expected to allocate a significant amount of time for Part 1, which takes 20 minutes, and Part 2, which takes 40 minutes, as the latter carries twice the weight of Part 1.
- Speaking Test (13-15 minutes): The speaking skill assessment consists of 3 parts and is done by skilled and certified IELTS Examiners.
Computer Delivered (CD) IELTS test.
The IELTS on computer is essentially the same test as the paper-based version, but it is taken on a computer. The main advantage of this format is that it provides test-takers with more flexibility in terms of choosing test dates and time slots, whether for the Academic or General Training modules. With up to three test slots available per day and seven days a week, scheduling the test becomes much more convenient. Moreover, test results are typically available within 3-5 days, allowing for faster feedback and planning.
Paper Based (PB) IELTS test
In the paper-based IELTS, the traditional approach is followed, wherein the test is taken at an official IELTS test centre, where you will be provided with question papers and answer sheets for the Reading, Listening, and Writing tests. Also, you will be required to write your answers using either pen or HB-pencils. The Speaking test will be conducted on a one-on-one basis with a certified IELTS examiner. Results for the test will be released 13 calendar days after the test date.