The ‘International English Language Testing System’ (IELTS) is an exam conducted
jointly by the University of Cambridge , The British Council and IDP Australia. IELTS is designed to assess the language ability
of candidates who need to study or work where English is used as the language of communication.
If you are planning to go abroad, to pursue further study, to undertake non-academic
training or work experience, to immigrate or if you simply want to test your English ability, then IELTS will be the real
test to check the right level of English for your needs.
The Test
Candidates are tested in Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. All candidates take
the same Listening and Speaking tests. There is a choice between Academic and General Training in the Reading and Writing
tests.
The total test time is around 2 hours 45 minutes. The first three tests – Listening,
Reading and Writing – must be completed in one day. The Speaking test may be taken, at the discretion of the test centre,
in the period seven days before or after the other tests.
IELTS scores:
The tests are designed to cover the full range of ability from non–user to expert user.
Test takers receive a score of 0–9, with 0 being for those who did not attempt the test, and 9 being for the most proficient
users. Most universities accept scores between 6–7 as being suitable for undergraduate study in English.
Worldwide recognition for study, work and immigration:
More
than one million people a year are now using IELTS to open doors throughout the English-speaking world and beyond. IELTS is
recognised by more than 6,000 organisations worldwide. The tests are available in more than 120 countries in over 500 locations,
with test dates available up to four times a month.