The International English Language Testing System, also known as IELTS, is a reputable and well-known standardised test that evaluates the English language skills of non-native speakers. The four language abilities—listening, reading, writing, and speaking—are assessed by this standardised test.
IELTS certification is recognised as a valid evidence of English language competency by educational institutions, immigration agencies, professional associations, and businesses worldwide. IELTS offers two modules, Academic and General Training, to accommodate the requirement of different types of candidates, including those connected to work-related obligations, immigration, and university applications.
The exam is a well-liked option for anyone looking to demonstrate their command of the English language because of its reputation for dependability, impartiality, and high-quality assessment.
IELTS’s main points are as follows:
- Exam Format
- Test Sections
- Listening
- Reading
- Writing
- Speaking
- Scoring
- Test Dates & Location
- Validity
1. Exam Format
The IELTS test comes in two formats – Academic and General. While the General Training module is for immigration and employment-related purposes, the Academic module is appropriate for students applying to study at the undergraduate or doctoral levels.
2. Test Sections
As mentioned above, the four components of IELTS are Speaking, Reading, Writing, and Listening. Both types of modules have the same Listening and Speaking components. However, they have somewhat different Reading and Writing sections.
3. Listening
Examinees have to listen to four recordings in the Listening part and respond to questions based on them. They have to listen and understand a variety of natural English accents in the recordings. The segment is roughly 30 minutes long.
4. Reading
The Reading portion has several formats for Academic and General Training courses. It consists of reading passages and responding to questions to evaluate comprehension, vocabulary, and reading abilities.
Three lengthy books are included in the academic reading segment, while shorter passages about daily life are included in the general training reading section.
If you want to maximize your IELTS reading score, please read our blog.
5. Writing
Academic and General Training have different requirements for the Writing portion. Participants in the Academic Writing section of the exam must explain visual data and compose an essay in response to a question. Participants in the General Training Writing exam have to compose an essay and a letter.
6. Speaking
A professional IELTS examiner will interview you in person for the Speaking portion. Through various questions and exercises, he/she will evaluate the examinee’s proficiency in using English for communication. This chapter lasts 11 to 14 minutes.
7. Scoring
English language competency is assessed using a nine-band IELTS score system. The individual scores for each part (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking) are averaged to determine the overall band score. The range of band scores is 1 (non-user) to 9 (experienced user).
8. Test Dates and Locations
British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia and Cambridge Assessment English are responsible for administering IELTS across several nations. The test dates and exam centers are announced in due time.
DG Training is an official IDP IELTS test center in the UAE. If you wish to take the test at our center, we will offer you an additional 4 hours of free personal training during your exam week. This extra preparation will further strengthen you for the actual test.
9. Validity
The validity of IELTS test results is two years from the exam date. If the examinee needs a score that is valid beyond that time, he/she must retake the exam.
It’s crucial to remember that depending on the institution, organization, or immigration authority you’re applying to, different IELTS score criteria may apply. It is advised to confirm the minimum score criteria of the particular school or company you are aiming for.
Which countries and courses accept IELTS?
IELTS scores are widely accepted by universities, colleges, and other educational institutions in many countries worldwide. Also, immigration authorities and professional organizations of many countries like the UK, Australia and New Zealand recognize IELTS scores for language proficiency assessment. Here are some examples:
- United Kingdom: Many leading universities in the UK consider good IELTS scores as evidence of English language proficiency. You can get enrolled in various undergraduate and postgraduate programs across institutions based on your scores.
- Canada: In Canada, most universities and colleges usually accept IELTS scores for admission. Moreover, these scores are also assessed during immigration, especially if you wish to opt for a study permit.
- Australia: IELTS is widely accepted by educational institutions in Australia for admission to undergraduate and postgraduate programs. The Australian Government also considers this score important for visa and immigration applications.
- New Zealand: Universities and colleges in New Zealand widely accept IELTS scores for admission to undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Immigration New Zealand also recognizes it for visa applications.
Also, countries like South Africa, South Korea, Malaysia and Japan, also accept IELTS scores for English proficiency assessment.
Although IELTS is widely accepted, it’s crucial to remember that the score criteria may change based on the institution, program, or visa type. For the most current and recent information, you are advised to verify the requirements of the specific institution or organization in which you are interested.
Recommended read: Which Countries accept IELTS?
IELTS Fees
Depending on the nation test center where you take the exam, different IELTS test fees apply. Accredited testing facilities establish the test fees, which is liable to vary. The IELTS examination costs typically vary from AED625 to AED920.
It is advised to go to the company’s official website that is in charge of organizing the IELTS exam in UAE to get the most precise and recent information on IELTS test fees. The British Council and IDP: IELTS Australia are the two primary companies that handle IELTS test administration (www.ielts.org and www.ielts.com.au, respectively). These websites offer details about exam dates, venues, and times.
IELTS Eligibility
It’s rather simple to meet the IELTS test prerequisites. IELTS test is available to everyone who wants to show their proficiency in English, regardless of age, gender, nationality, or educational background. Here are some essential details about eligibility:
- Age Requirement:
There is no specific age requirement for taking the IELTS test. However, test takers under 16 might need to provide written consent from a parent or guardian.
- Academic and General Training Modules:
The Academic module is typically required for those applying to study at undergraduate or postgraduate levels, while the General Training module is often used for immigration purposes or employment opportunities. It is essential to determine which module is appropriate for your specific needs.
- Test Preparation:
While there are no strict eligibility criteria for IELTS, it is recommended that test takers have sufficient English language proficiency to ensure they can perform to the best of their abilities on the test. Adequate preparation through practice tests, study materials, and language improvement can help improve your performance.
- Test Availability:
IELTS tests are available worldwide, and you can choose a test center and a suitable test date based on your location and convenience. Check the availability and test dates on the official IELTS website or through authorized test centers in your country.
Although there are no hard prerequisites for IELTS eligibility, it’s crucial to remember that particular institutions or organizations may have their standards regarding the minimum band scores needed for admission, employment, or immigration.
IELTS Registrations
To register for the IELTS test, you can follow these general steps:
- Determine the Test Type:
Decide whether you need to take the Academic module or the General Training module of the IELTS test, depending on your specific requirements (e.g., university admission, immigration, work).
- Find a Test Center:
Identify the authorized IELTS test centers in your country. The official websites of the British Council (www.ielts.org) and IDP: IELTS Australia (www.ielts.com.au) provides comprehensive information on test centers and test dates specific to your region.
- Check Available Test Dates:
Look for available test dates at your chosen test center. Test dates may vary depending on the location and demand, so planning and registering well in advance is advisable.
- Register Online or In-Person:
You can register for the IELTS test online or in person, depending on the test center. Visit the official IELTS website or the website of the authorized test center to access the registration portal and complete the registration process. Alternatively, some test centers in UAE may offer the option to register in person at their office.
- Complete the Registration Form:
Provide the required personal information, including your full name, contact details, identification document (e.g., passport), and any additional information requested. Make sure to double-check the accuracy of the information you provide.
- Pay the Test Fee:
Pay the IELTS test fee through the online registration portal or the test center office, depending on the registration process.
Remember to review the exact registration criteria and instructions offered by the authorized test center you select since the registration procedure may change significantly between centers.
Final Thoughts
Overall, remember that the location and test center will determine the specific IELTS exam dates. Test availability may be verified on the official IELTS website or by contacting accredited test centers. Tests are often offered many times each month. Signing up far in advance is advised because test dates might get booked very rapidly.
If you are someone who is looking for IELTS training in Dubai, get in touch with DG Training Land today!
FAQs
Is it easy to pass IELTS?
Well, it depends on your preparation. IELTS is not an easy exam to pass but that being said with the right practice and dedication one can pass it.
What is the safest score for IELTS?
For IELTS, the safest score is considered to be a 7 band or higher. Try to achieve scores in this band or higher to secure your spot!
Are there Different modules for IELTS, what are they?
Yes, there are 2 different modules for IELTS Academic and General Training. In these modules Speaking and listening tests are the same but the other two tests, reading and writing are different.
What are some of the countries that accept IELTS?
Some of the countries that accept IELTS scores for their educational institutions are the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and Germany.
