What is an IELTS exam?

The International English Language Testing System or IELTS is an English language proficiency test taken by study abroad aspirants. The test assesses the test takers’ English language proficiency and is accepted by universities in countries such as the US, the UK, Canada, Australia, Germany, Ireland, New Zealand and more. Let’s find out some interesting information about the IELTS exam through this guide.

Key Highlights

• What is an IELTS exam?
• IELTS online test
• IELTS at the test centre
• Is the IELTS speaking test online similar to paper-based and computer-based speaking tests?
• IELTS exam pattern
• What is the IELTS exam fee?
• How to book an IELTS exam?
• IELTS exam dates
• How to apply for the IELTS exam
• IELTS online practice test
• IELTS exam results

IELTS online test

The IELTS Academic test is designed for those who wish to study at an English-speaking university (higher education). Now, IELTS Academic test can be taken online, i.e., from your home or any private location. Kindly note that IELTS online is for test takers 18 years and above, and the test is not accepted for immigration purposes.

IELTS at the test centre

You can appear for IELTS on paper or computer at a test centre. In IELTS on paper, test takers write their answers for the Listening, Reading and Writing sections with pen or pencil. In both tests (online and paper-based), the Speaking test is conducted via a trained IELTS examiner. The IELTS is conducted at 78 locations across India.

Is the IELTS Speaking Test online similar to paper-based and computer-based speaking tests?

The IELTS Speaking Test Online is similar to a paper-based or computer-based speaking test in terms of format, scoring, and timing. The only difference is IELTS Speaking Test Online is held via a video call by a trained examiner, whereas the test takes place face-to-face in the case of paper-based and computer-based tests.

Sections	IELTS Academic
Listening	Number of questions: 40 Time duration: 30 minutes Paper format: 4 parts with 10 questions each
Reading	Number of questions: 40 Time duration: 60 minutes Paper format: Three reading passages with multiple questions and tasks.
Writing	Number of questions: 2 Time duration: 60 minutes Paper format: 2 writing tasks. Task 1 includes writing 150 words in 20 minutes. Task 2 includes writing 250 words in 40 minutes.
Speaking	Number of sections: 3 Time duration: 11-14 minutes Paper format: section 1- introduction and interview, section 2 - long turn, section 3 - discussion.

Note: The total duration of the test is 2 hours and 45 minutes.

What is the IELTS exam fee

The IELTS exam fee that you need to pay during registration is INR 16,250. The fee is the same for computer-based and paper-based exams.

How to book an IELTS exam?

If you are planning to give an IELTS online test, IELTS exam booking can be made at least 48 hours before your planned test date by visiting their website. 

IELTS exam dates

You can take IELTS multiple times a year. So, check the IELTS test dates 2023 month-wise and book to get your preferred date and time slot. It is advised to choose the IELTS test date 3-4 months before your university’s application deadline.

How to apply for the IELTS exam

• Find out the nearest test locations.
• Register for the IELTS test by downloading an application form.
• Fill it out and submit it at the chosen test centre in person.
• After you register, the test centre will send you an email confirming the time and date of your test.

You can also register for IELTS online test by visiting the official IELTS website.

IELTS online practice test

Refer to IELTS sample test questions and official IELTS practice material to understand the test format and types of questions. Appearing for a mock test to be well-prepared for the final exam is advised.

IELTS exam results

For computer-based tests, results will be out within 3-6 days. Paper-based exam results will be declared after 13 days.

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