IELTS is the International English Language Testing System, the world’s proven English language test.
IELTS was one of the pioneers of four skills English language testing over 21 years ago, and continues to set the standard for English language testing today.
Over 7000 organizations and more than 1.7 million test takers around the world trust and recognize IELTS as a secure, valid and reliable indicator of true-to-life ability to communicate in English for education, immigration and professional accreditation.
IELTS examination services are provided through more than 800 test centres and locations in over 130 countries.
IELTS is jointly owned by British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia and the University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations (Cambridge ESOL). For more information visit the IELTS Partner website www.ielts.org.
IELTS test structure
IELTS writing module (Academic):
It comprises two tasks: task I and task II. Task I comprises interpreting tables, graphs, charts and task II involves Issue writing. Writing task I is a 20 minute test and writing task II is a 40 minute test. The first one should be written in 150 words; and the second one, in 250 words. For general module, Writing Task I prescribes letter writing. The test takers will have to write a letter in 150 words. There are different types of letters that appear in IELTS. Formal letters informal letters, complaints, etc. are a few examples.
IELTS reading module (Academic/General):
This section comprises three reading comprehensions. Each Reading comprehension is followed by 12-14 Questions. The major question types comprise: matching, heading, sub heading, sentence completions, etc. This section lasts for 60 minutes.
Â IELTS listening module (Academic/General):
This module contains four sections. The test takers need to listen to the audio and answer the questions given in the question booklet. Thus, you need to do two things simultaneously -listening and answering. This is a 30minute test. Further, on completion of this section you will have additional 10 minutes to transfer your answers from the question booklet to an answer sheet.
IELTS speaking module (Academic/General):
This is a 15 minute test, it comprises three parts: self introduction, topic and discussion. After you introduce yourself, a topic card will be given to you. You will have to speak on the topic for about 5 minutes. Finally, there will be a discussion between you and the examiner. He will ask you some questions on the given topic.