The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a widely accepted English proficiency exam for international students. Here’s what you must know about the IELTS examination if you want to study abroad.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS:

• What is the IELTS exam?
• Some countries accepting the International English Language Testing System
• What is the IELTS exam pattern?
• Methods for taking the IELTS exam
• The types of IELTS Writing tests
• IELTS preparation tips
• IELTS eligibility
• What is the IELTS test booking process?
• FAQs

What is the IELTS EXAM?

The IELTS examination is an English language proficiency test. The IELTS Academic exam helps you secure a university seat and student visa. As a part of the university application process, you are required to appear for an English language test to pursue English-taught programs.

Some countries accepting the International English Language Testing System

• Australia
• The United States of America
• Canada
• The United Kingdom
• New Zealand
• Ireland

What is the IELTS Exam pattern?

The IELTS syllabus includes four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. These sections and the overall format will remain the same this year, as explained in the following table.

Also Read:What aspirants must know about the IELTS Listening band score

• Insights into the IELTS exam syllabus

Sections	Task description	Duration
Listening	You have to interpret the audio clips. The recording can be a conversation between 2-4 people, a speech, or a conversation.	30 minutes
Reading	This will test your detailed reading skills. There will be 3 sections of long texts taken from books, journals, or newspapers.	60 minutes
Writing	You are expected to summarise visual information or an essay. The aim of this section is to gauge whether you can organise ideas, use vocabulary and draft appropriate responses.	60 minutes
Speaking	You will have to speak on any given topic. There are no fixed IELTS speaking topics. However, the most common ones are about the candidate’s everyday life and personal experiences.	11 - 14 minutes

Methods for taking the IELTS exam

Also Read: What students must know about IELTS Speaking topics

• IELTS EXAM online test

  It is a computer-based exam. However, the Speaking test is a face-to-face discussion. You can get your results in approximately 3-5 days. The computer-based exam gives you the convenience to choose from multiple test dates as per your preference.

• IELTS EXAM pen and paper

  The exam is held in a traditional manner, with physical question papers and answer sheets. You must only use HB pencils on the answer sheet. The results are usually out 13 days after the test has taken place.

Types of IELTS Writing tests

• IELTS Writing Task 1

  You will have to summarise and describe the visual information given in tables, charts, graphs, maps, etc., in 150 words. You will be presented with factual information and asked to select, report and summarise the key points.

• IELTS Writing Task 2

  You will have to write an essay in response to a point of view, argument or problem in a semi-formal style in 250 words. There are no fixed essay topics, although the most common ones are about education, technology, environment and health.

Also Read: What you must know about the band 7 IELTS score

IELTS preparation

The time frame for the preparation for IELTS really depends on the individual. However, it is recommended to start preparing at least 2-3 months before appearing for the exams.

TIPS

• Do not memorise your answers: In your Speaking and Writing tests, the examiner will expect your answers to be natural. If the examiner can tell that your answers are memorised, it will result in a lower band score.
• Practise well: Use the study material and a range of mock tests that are available online to familiarise yourself with the test format. Practise under time constraints.
• Do not be afraid to ask: Ask for clarifications to make sure you don’t misunderstand the question. You do not lose marks to understand the questions. So, please ask!

IELTS Eligibility

The student must be at least 16 years of age. A valid identification such as a passport or driving licence is a must.

IELTS exam qualification required: There is no minimum educational qualification for the IELTS exam. You can take the IELTS, regardless of the marks you score.

Also Read: Everything you need to know before pursuing higher education at UK university without IELTS

What is the IELTS test booking process?

The IELTS test is available throughout the year. Most exams are scheduled on Saturdays and Thursdays.

Steps to book the IELTS 2024:

• Log on to the official IELTS website.
• Select the option ‘Register for IELTS’.
• Select your preferred test method: IELTS on computer or pen and paper
• Select your test type: Academic or General Training for IELTS. (Students must always select IELTS Academic)
• Pick your desired test location.
• Select your desired date and time slot.
• Fill up the required details.
• Proceed to pay the test fee.

FAQs

• What is the passing score for IELTS?

  The minimum score required to pass the IELTS varies depending on the institution. However, in general, a score of 6.0 or 6.5 out of 9.0 across all sections is considered to be the minimum passing score for most institutions.

• What is the fee for IELTS 2024?

  The IELTS fee in India is INR 17,000 for both computer-based and paper-based tests.

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