IELTS Test Information FAQ: Everything You Need to Know
Introduction to IELTS
What is IELTS?
IELTS stands for International English Language Testing
System. It’s one of the most widely recognized English proficiency tests in the
world, accepted by over 11,000 organizations globally. Whether you're aiming to
study abroad, work internationally, or migrate to an English-speaking country,
IELTS is your ticket to achieving those dreams.
Why is IELTS important?
English is a global language. Whether you're applying to
universities in the UK, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand—or moving for
work—proving your English skills is crucial. IELTS provides an objective
measure of your language ability that institutions and employers trust.
Types of IELTS Tests
IELTS Academic
This edition assesses your readiness to learn or train in an
English-speaking setting and is intended for applicants seeking professional
registration or higher education.
IELTS General Training
Basic survival skills in a variety of social and
professional circumstances are the main focus of this test. It's perfect for
migration, especially to countries like Australia, Canada, and the UK.
IELTS for UKVI and Life Skills
These are special versions of IELTS approved by the UK Home
Office for visa and immigration purposes. For the sake of basic visa
requirements, Life Skills only focuses on speaking and listening.
IELTS Test Format Overview
Listening Section
- Duration: 30 minutes plus an additional 10 minutes for answer transfers
- Tasks: 4 recorded conversations/monologues
- Skills Tested: Understanding of main ideas, opinions, and factual information
Reading Section
- Duration: 60 minutes
- IELTS Academic: three lengthy passages from periodicals, books, and newspapers
- IELTS General: Extracts from notices, advertisements, books
- Tasks: Answering questions based on comprehension
Writing Section
- Duration: 60 minutes
- Task 1: Describe a graph, chart, or letter
- Task 2: Write an essay expressing a point of view or argument
Speaking Section
- Duration: 11–14 minutes
- Format: Face-to-face interview
- Parts: Introduction, cue card (2-minute speech), discussion
IELTS Scoring System
Band Score Explained
The band scale used by IELTS ranges from 0 to 9. Each
section (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking) gets a score, and the average
gives your overall band score.
How are scores calculated?
Each section has its own marking criteria. A common
conversion table is used to translate raw results into band scores.
What is a good IELTS score?
It depends on your goal.
- Universities: Usually require 6.5–7.5
- Migration: Often 6.0 or higher
- Professional registration: Typically 7.0+
Registration and Fees
How to register for IELTS
- Visit the official IELTS website
- Select your country and preferred test center
- Choose test type and date
- Upload your ID and make payment
IELTS test fees
Fees vary by country and test type. The price often falls
between $215 and $310. UKVI tests and Life Skills may cost slightly more.
ID requirements
You need a valid passport (or national ID in some countries)
when registering and on test day. The ID must match exactly.
Test Day Essentials
What to bring on test day
- Your original ID
- Pencil, eraser, pen (provided at some centers)
- Water bottle (label-free)
Do’s and Don’ts
Do:
- Arrive at least 30–45 minutes early
- Listen carefully to instructions
Don’t:
- Bring mobile phones or electronic devices
- Talk to others during the test
COVID-19 protocols (if applicable)
Check your test center’s current safety guidelines—some may
require masks or vaccination proof.
Preparation Tips
Self-study vs coaching
Self-study works for disciplined learners with good
resources. Coaching helps with structure, feedback, and strategy. Choose what
suits your learning style.
Best resources to prepare
- Books: Cambridge IELTS series, Barron’s IELTS
- Websites: ielts.org, British Council, IELTS Liz
- Apps: IELTS Prep by IDP, Magoosh, E2Language
How long does it take to prepare?
For most people, 2 to 3 months of consistent preparation is
enough. However, this depends on your current English level and target score.
Results and Rechecking
When are results available?
- Paper-based IELTS: 13 days after the test
- Computer-delivered IELTS: 3–5 days
- Results are viewable online and by mail.
How to request a recheck?
If you believe you deserved a higher score, apply for an
Enquiry on Results (EOR) within 6 weeks. There is a fee, refunded if your score
increases.
Sending scores to institutions
You can send up to 5 free TRFs (Test Report Forms) to
institutions. Additional copies may have a fee.
Common IELTS Myths Busted
Myth: Native speakers always score 9
Not true. Native speakers can underperform if they don’t
understand the test structure or make careless mistakes.
Myth: You can fail IELTS
There’s no pass or fail in IELTS. You just get a band score.
However, certain institutions may have minimum score requirements.
Myth: You must use complex vocabulary
Using clear, appropriate vocabulary is more important than
sounding like a dictionary. Clarity beats complexity.
Conclusion
IELTS might seem overwhelming at first, but once you
understand the format and prepare smartly, it's very manageable. The key is to
practice consistently, know your weak areas, and use reliable materials.
Whether you're heading to university, seeking a job, or migrating abroad, IELTS
opens doors to global opportunities.
FAQs
1. Can I take IELTS online from home?
Yes, IELTS Online is available in some countries, mainly for
the Academic test.
2. How often can I retake IELTS?
As many times as you want. There’s no limit, but you'll need
to pay each time.
3. Can I use American or British English in the test?
Yes, both are acceptable—just be consistent throughout.
4. Is IELTS harder than TOEFL?
They test similar skills but in different formats. IELTS is
paper-based or computer-based with a face-to-face speaking test, while TOEFL is
fully computer-based.
5. What’s the validity of an IELTS score?
After the exam date, your IELTS score is good for two years.