IELTS

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) measures the language proficiency of people who want to study or work where English is used as a language of communication. IELTS has been developed by some of the world’s leading language assessment experts and will test the full range of English skills needed for success in your new job or study placement abroad.

IELTS Academic or IELTS General Training

There are two IELTS tests available – IELTS Academic or IELTS General Training. The test you choose should be based on what it is you want to do. IELTS Academic – measures whether your level of English language proficiency is suitable for an academic environment. It reflects aspects of academic language and evaluates whether you’re ready to begin training or studying. IELTS General Training – measures English language proficiency in a practical, everyday context. The tasks and tests reflect both workplace and social situations. If you are taking the IELTS test to support a UK visa application to work, live or study in the UK, you may need to take the IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) Academic or General Training or the IELTS for Life Skills test.

What is on the IELTS and how long is it?

Candidates are tested on all four language skills – listening (30 minutes, 40 questions), reading (60 minutes, 40 questions), writing (60 minutes, 2 tasks) and speaking, unless you have an exemption due to a disability (see section on special requirements). Everyone takes the same Listening and Speaking tests. There are different Reading and Writing tests for IELTS Academic and General Training. The Listening, Reading and Writing tests must be completed on the same day. The order in which these tests are taken may vary. There are no breaks between these three tests. The Speaking test may be taken up to seven days before or after the other three tests.

Current IELTS Fees

How is the IELTS scored? Results

It uses a nine-band scale to clearly identify levels of proficiency, from non-user (band score 1) through to expert (band score 9). Results will be available 13 days after the test. At some test centres test takers can collect their results on the 13th day. At other test centres results are mailed to test takers on the 13th day. Test centres are not permitted to give results out over the phone or by scan or email.

A preview of your results is available online 13 days after the test. Results will remain online for 28 days.

Please note that the online preview of your results should not be used as an official confirmation of your performance.