Test preparation

There are two types of IELTS suitable for study:

IELTS Academic

The IELTS Academic test is suitable for entry to study at undergraduate or postgraduate levels, and also for professional registration purposes. It assesses whether you are ready to begin studying or training in an environment where English language is used, and reflects some of the features of language used in academic study. IELTS General Training

IELTS General Training

This IELTS test is suitable for those applying to train or study at below degree level, as well as those wishing to migrate to Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the UK. The test focuses on basic survival skills in broad social and workplace contexts. Most people will take the IELTS Academic test to support their study and application to study overseas - but it is important to check the entry requirements of individual organisations before choosing your test. Students can nominate up to five organisations to which their IELTS test results will be sent automatically and free of charge. There is a fee for sending results to additional organisations. You can request your centre to send your results as long as your IELTS scores are valid.

To register for IELTS, you first need to find your local IELTS test centre (see above). They will help you to complete your IELTS registration and provide you with any other IELTS information you need. They will advise you of whether you need to take the general training or academic module. They will also provide you with an IELTS application form to complete, or you can download this from the official IELTS website. You will need to complete the application form and sign it. You will also need a copy of your passport (or national identity card – check with your centre if this is accepted) and two recent passport sized photos, which are signed on the back. You cannot wear glasses in these photos. You’ll need to return the IELTS application form to the centre with your payment in order to complete your IELTS registration. You’ll need to check with the IELTS centre for information about any other methods of payment by post. Once your IELTS application form has been processed and they have all the IELTS information from you they need, your registration is complete and you will be contacted about an IELTS examination date. You will need to take the same ID you used to register (i.e. your passport or national ID card) to the test. In some cases you can complete the IELTS application online, but you will need to check this with your local centre to see if they provide this service.

IELTS, the International English Language Testing System, is the world's most popular high stakes English language test. Since the past 25+ years, it has been a leader in testing the 4 skills of English language. Even today, it has set the benchmark for English language proficiency. Over 10,000 organisations accept IELTS score as a proof of English. It is a test to measure the English ability of people who wish to study or work in countries, places or organisations where English is the main language of communication. It uses a band scale of 1-9 to indicate ability, with 1 a virtual non-user of the language and 9 completely fluent, or expert. You are tested under four criteria: speaking, listening, reading and writing. There is an Academic Test and a General Training Test

The IELTS score validity is of two years counting from the date of receiving it. For all candidates, the IELTS validity period is the same.