Quick Facts About IELTS
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | International English Language Testing System |
| Test Duration | 2 hours 45 minutes |
| Test Formats | Academic or General Training |
| Valid For | 2 years |
| Results Time | 3-5 days (computer), 13 days (paper) |
| Score Range | 0-9 bands |
Test Dates 2024
| Month | Paper-Based | Computer-Based |
|---|---|---|
| January | 6, 20 | Available daily* |
| February | 3, 17 | Available daily* |
| March | 2, 16, 30 | Available daily* |
| April | 13, 27 | Available daily* |
| May | 11, 25 | Available daily* |
| June | 8, 22 | Available daily* |
*Computer-based tests are available almost daily at selected centers. Check your local test center for exact dates.
Which IELTS Should You Take?
Academic IELTS is for you if:
✅ Applying to universities
✅ Getting professional registration
✅ Pursuing higher education
✅ Applying for skilled migration
General Training IELTS is for you if:
✅ Moving abroad for work
✅ Applying for immigration
✅ Getting work experience
✅ Studying below degree level
Test Format Made Simple
Listening (30 minutes)
What you’ll hear:
- Everyday conversations
- Public announcements
- Academic discussions
- University lectures
Pro Tip: You hear everything ONLY ONCE!
Reading (60 minutes)
| Academic | General Training |
|---|---|
| 3 long academic texts | Social, workplace & general texts |
| Scientific articles | Advertisements, guides, manuals |
| Complex language | Everyday English |
Writing (60 minutes)
| Task | Academic | General Training |
|---|---|---|
| Task 1 | Describe graphs/charts (20 mins) | Write a letter (20 mins) |
| Task 2 | Essay writing (40 mins) | Essay writing (40 mins) |
| Words | Task 1: 150+ words Task 2: 250+ words | Same as Academic |
Speaking (11-14 minutes)
A face-to-face interview in three parts:
- Introduction & general questions
- Speaking on a given topic
- In-depth discussion
Common Band Score Requirements
| Purpose | Typical Band Score Needed |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate Study | 6.0 – 6.5 |
| Postgraduate Study | 6.5 – 7.0 |
| Work Visa | 6.0 – 7.0 |
| PR/Immigration | 6.0 – 7.0 |
| Healthcare Professionals | 7.0 – 7.5 |
Costs and Payment
| Region | Approximate Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| USA | $245-255 |
| UK | £175-200 |
| Australia | AUD 375-395 |
| Canada | CAD 309-319 |
| India | INR 15,500-16,000 |
Simple 4-Week Study Plan
| Week | Focus | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | Understanding Format | • Take practice test • Learn test rules • Study sample questions |
| Week 2 | Building Skills | • Practice all sections • Learn time management • Build vocabulary |
| Week 3 | Practice Tests | • Full mock tests • Review mistakes • Practice weak areas |
| Week 4 | Final Preparation | • Mock tests under time • Rest before exam • Review strategies |
Quick Tips for Each Section
Listening Tips
- Read questions before audio starts
- Follow along with the speaker
- Watch out for number/letter changes
- Write answers while listening
Reading Tips
- Start with quick skim
- Read questions first
- Watch the clock (20 mins per text)
- Don’t get stuck on one question
Writing Tips
- Plan for 5 minutes
- Include all parts of the task
- Check grammar and spelling
- Stay on topic
Speaking Tips
- Speak naturally
- Give detailed answers
- Use examples
- Don’t memorize answers
What to Bring on Test Day
✅ Valid passport
✅ Test confirmation
✅ Water (clear bottle)
✅ Pencils and eraser
❌ Phone
❌ Smart watches
❌ Notes
❌ Bags in test room
After Your Test
- Results Release
- Computer test: 3-5 days
- Paper test: 13 days
- Access online or SMS notification
- Next Steps
- Download PDF results
- Order additional copies if needed
- Plan university applications
- Begin visa process if required
Need Higher Scores?
Common improvements needed:
| Skill | Quick Fix |
|---|---|
| Listening | Practice with BBC/CNN/TCC news |
| Reading | Read English news daily |
| Writing | Practice 2 tasks weekly |
| Speaking | Talk with English speakers/language apps |
Free Resources
- IELTS.org practice tests
- British Council prep materials
- YouTube channels
- Language exchange apps
- Online study groups
Remember!
- Start preparation early
- Practice regularly
- Focus on weak areas
- Take full practice tests
- Stay healthy before the test
Last updated: October 2024
Pro Tip: Book your test at least 2-3 months before you need the results!
Need help? Contact Us for guidance.
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