If you are planning to study in an English-speaking country, it is important to take the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test. The IELTS test is designed to assess your proficiency in the English language and is taken and trusted by more than 4 million test-takers each year. Here is everything you need to know about IELTS for academic purposes.
There are several reasons why taking the IELTS can be beneficial if you want to study abroad.
Language proficiency: IELTS accurately assesses your abilities in English across four skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. This comprehensive evaluation ensures that you are well-prepared to handle academic content and everyday communication in an English-speaking environment. Being proficient in English allows you to participate fully in your chosen course and integrate more smoothly into your new surroundings.
Worldwide recognition: IELTS is recognised by more than 12,000 organisations in over 150 countries, including universities, employers, professional bodies, and immigration authorities. This wide acceptance makes it a valuable credential for students aiming to study internationally, as it is often a prerequisite for university admissions.
Flexibility: IELTS is offered in both IELTS on Paper and IELTS on Computer formats, allowing you to choose the mode that best suits your comfort and availability. Additionally, with frequent test dates throughout the year, you can schedule your exam at a time that aligns with your application deadlines.
Preparation resources: Preparing for IELTS provides you with access to a wealth of preparation materials designed to improve your English language skills effectively. These resources include online courses, practice tests, and official IELTS practice materials available on the IDP IELTS India website.
IELTS Academic tests are for those who wish to study at an English-speaking university. One can also opt for IELTS Academic for professional registration purposes.
There are two types of IELTS tests- IELTS on Paper and IELTS on Computer. You can choose the one which fits you the best.
The IELTS General Training test is meant for those who wish to apply for secondary education, and professionals seeking work experience. Also, it is mandatory to migrate to Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the UK.
There are four sections of the IELTS test: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
Listening, Reading, and Writing tests are taken on the same day, without any breaks in between, one after the other.
The Speaking test may either fall on the same day or any day up to a week before or after the test date. For the Speaking test, you can book a speaking slot online on the date and time that fits you best
If you fail to choose a slot within the stated time period, a time slot will be automatically allocated to you.
Band score | Skill level | Description |
Band 9 | Expert user | You have a full operational command of the language. Your use of English is appropriate, accurate and fluent, and you show complete understanding. |
Band 8 | Very good user | You have a fully operational command of the language with only occasional unsystematic inaccuracies and inappropriate usage. You may misunderstand some things in unfamiliar situations. You handle complex detailed argumentation well. |
Band 7 | Good user | You have an operational command of the language, though with occasional inaccuracies, inappropriate usage and misunderstandings in some situations. Generally you handle complex language well and understand detailed reasoning. |
Band 6 | Competent user | Generally you have an effective command of the language despite some inaccuracies, inappropriate usage and misunderstandings. You can use and understand fairly complex language, particularly in familiar situations. |
Band 5 | Modest user | You have a partial command of the language, and cope with overall meaning in most situations, although you are likely to make many mistakes. You should be able to handle basic communication in your own field. |
Band 4 | Limited user | Your basic competence is limited to familiar situations. You frequently show problems in understanding and expression. You are not able to use complex language. |
Band 3 | Extremely limited user | You convey and understand only general meaning in very familiar situations. There are frequent breakdowns in communication. |
Band 2 | Intermittent user | You have great difficulty understanding spoken and written English. |
Band 1 | Non-user | You have no ability to use the language except a few isolated words. |
Band 0 | Did not attempt the test | You did not answer the questions. |