Exam Overview
IELTS, or the International English Language Testing System, is a premier English language proficiency exam taken by 4 million candidates annually, making it the most popular choice for higher education and global migration. Developed by the British Council in partnership with IDP Education and Cambridge Assessment English, IELTS was launched in the year 1980 and rapidly expanded from 1989 onwards to serve a global audience.
IELTS General Training is for aspirants looking to migrate to New Zealand, Australia, Canada, the US and the UK or apply for secondary education, training programmes and work experience in an English-speaking environment. The test has been designed to evaluate a candidate's day-to-day non-academic English. Countries use IELTS General Training for immigration purposes. Here, the examination focuses on the basic survival skills of a candidate in a broad social and workplace environment.
IELTS Exam Highlights
|
Exam Name |
IELTS |
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IELTS full form |
International English Language Testing System |
|
IELTS Official Website |
|
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IELTS is most popular for |
Studying, working, and migrating to English-speaking countries like Australia, New Zealand, and the UK |
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IELTS is also accepted by |
Universities in Canada and Universities in USA |
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IELTS is conducted by |
IDP Education Ltd. |
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IELTS Mode of Exam |
Online and Offline |
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IELTS Exam Fees |
INR 17,000 |
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IELTS Score Range |
Band 1 to Band 9 |
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IELTS Contact Information |
Head Office Global Gateway Towers, Tower-B, 5th Floor, Sikanderpur Ghosi, Sector-26, M.G. Road,Gurugram -122002 Haryana, India Phone: 1800-102-4544 (Mon to Sat - 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM) Email: ielts.india@idp.com |
Purpose of the IELTS Exam
IELTS scores evaluate an individual's capacity to communicate effectively in English, facilitating international mobility and enhancing communication in diverse settings.
Study: Renowned universities and colleges worldwide recognize IELTS results as proof of English language proficiency, making it an essential requirement for academic admission.
Work: IELTS scores are accepted by various professional registration bodies in fields such as accounting, engineering, law, medicine, nursing, pharmacy, and education. This highlights the exam's importance for gaining professional accreditation in English-speaking countries.
Migration: Many governments favour IELTS scores for permanent residency applications, with the IELTS General Training test being the sole non-academic assessment accepted for migration to countries like Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the UK, and the USA.
IELTS offers two primary formats: Academic and General Training, each tailored to specific needs.
IELTS Academic assesses your English proficiency in an academic context, ensuring you are equipped to handle the language demands of higher education. It evaluates your command of academic language and readiness for study or training in English.
IELTS General Training focuses on practical language skills relevant to everyday life. This test encompasses real-world situations, including workplace interactions and social settings, comprehensively evaluating your language abilities in practical contexts.
IELTS for Life Skills is a specialised version that assesses English speaking and listening skills in everyday scenarios. Designed for individuals applying for UK visas, it features two levels (A1 and B1) aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
IELTS Exam Format/ Exam Pattern
Listening Test (30 minutes):
The listening component consists of four sections, each featuring ten questions. It includes a variety of conversations and monologues set in everyday social and academic contexts.
Reading Test (60 minutes):
This section of the IELTS examination consists of 40 questions and is designed to test the candidate's reading skills. It lasts 60 minutes.
Format
Similar to the academic format, candidates are provided with passages from advertisements, company guidelines, brochures, and so on. The common trend suggests that this format is easier than the academic format, as the selected text is generally something one encounters daily.
General Test Writing(60 minutes):
Here, the candidate would be required to write on topics of general interest and execute two tasks in under 60 minutes.
Format:
For the first task, the candidate must write a letter based on the situation. The letter could be formal, semi-formal or personal, depending on the problem presented. You will be asked to explain, request, or support your argument to a specific authority. Based on the above viewpoint, you will be asked to draft an essay for your second task. Relevant instances should support the arguments and opinions mentioned here, and the writing style could tilt towards personal style.
Speaking (11-14 minutes):
Conducted as a face-to-face interview with an examiner, this section is divided into three parts: an introduction and interview, a long turn where candidates discuss a specific topic, and a two-way dialogue related to that topic.
IELTS Exam Eligibility
The IELTS exam has no specific eligibility criteria based on age, gender, race, nationality, or religion, making it accessible to all:
The primary requirement is that candidates must be at least 16 years old at the time of the test, with no upper age limit.
- A valid passport is required for exam registration.
- University Admission: While you can take the IELTS at 16, individual universities often set their minimum score requirements for admission, typically ranging from 6.0 to 7.0 bands.
- It's advisable to check the specific guidelines of the institutions you wish to apply to.
IELTS Exam Registration
Steps for IELTS Test Registration
- Choose Test Type: Decide whether you'll take the Academic or General Training version.
- Select Format: Opt for either Computer-delivered or Paper-based testing.
- Find a Test Center: Locate an official IELTS test centre nearby.
- Pick a Test Date: Select a convenient date from the available options.
- Create an Account: Register on the official IELTS website.
- Complete the Application: Fill in your details and preferences.
- Upload Identification: Provide a clear copy of your valid passport or national ID.
- Pay the Test Fee: Process the payment through the available methods.
- Receive Confirmation: Check your email for test confirmation and instructions.
- Prepare for the Test: Use official IELTS materials to get ready.
In India, the fee for the IELTS exam is set at INR 17,000, applicable to both the Academic and General Training tests. This rate remains consistent whether you choose the Paper-based or Computer-delivered format. Below, candidates can find a detailed breakdown of the IELTS exam fees for 2024 in India.
|
IELTS Test Type |
Fee (INR) |
|
IELTS General Training Test |
17,000 |
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IELTS on Computer |
17,000 |
|
IELTS Life Skills (A1 & B1) |
16,050 |
IELTS Exam Preparation tips
When preparing for the IELTS, you have two main options: self-study or attending coaching classes. Your choice will depend on your current language proficiency and comfort level. If you're already fluent in English, self-study might be sufficient, allowing you to prepare at your own pace. This option is also more budget-friendly, but ensure you use high-quality IELTS preparation materials.
Conversely, if time is a concern and you prefer professional guidance, enrolling in coaching classes can be beneficial. Regular courses provide structure and help you manage your study time effectively. Do you still have questions?
How do I prepare for the IELTS exam?
Now that you're familiar with the exam format, here are some essential tips to help you succeed in each module:
- Set Your Target Score: Research the minimum IELTS score needed for your chosen university or immigration program to clarify your goals.
- Use Official Resources: Visit official websites for detailed information about the exam format, sample tests, and registration processes.
- Practise Diligently: Take advantage of each module's official practice tests, online resources, and specialised preparation books.
- Enhance Your Vocabulary: Broaden your English vocabulary by reading widely, using flashcards, and incorporating new words into everyday conversation.
- Master Time Management: Train yourself to complete tasks within the set time limits to improve your efficiency during the test.
- Seek Expert Help: Consider enrolling in an IELTS preparation course or working with an English tutor for tailored guidance.
With these strategies, you'll be well on your way to achieving your desired IELTS score.
IELTS Exam Practice papers
2.IELTS General Writing Sample Tasks
3.IELTS General Reading Sample Tasks
4.IELTS General Listening Sample Tasks
IELTS Exam Band Scale
|
Score |
Skill |
Skill Overview |
|
Band 9 |
Expert user |
Fully operational command of the language: appropriate, accurate and fluent with complete understanding. |
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Band 8 |
Very good user |
Fully operational command of the language with only occasional inaccuracies and inappropriacies. Misunderstandings may occur in unfamiliar situations. Handles complex detailed argumentation well. |
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Band 7 |
Good user |
Operational command of the language, though with occasional inaccuracies, inappropriacies and misunderstandings in some situations. Generally handles complex language well and understands detailed reasoning. |
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Band 6 |
Competent user |
Generally effective command of the language despite some inaccuracies, inappropriacies and misunderstandings. Can use and understand fairly complex language, particularly in familiar situations. |
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Band 5 |
Modest user |
Partial command of the language, coping with overall meaning in most situations, though is likely to make many mistakes. Should be able to handle basic communication in own field. |
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Band 4 |
Limited user |
Basic competence is limited to familiar situations. Has frequent problems in understanding and expression. Is not able to use complex language. |
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Band 3 |
Extremely limited user |
Conveys and understands only general meaning in very familiar situations. Frequent breakdowns in communication occur. |
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Band 2 |
Intermittent user |
No real communication is possible except for the most basic information using isolated words or short formulae |
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Band 1 |
Non-user |
Essentiall Scorey has no ability to use the language beyond possibly a few isolated words. |
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Band 0 |
Did not attempt the test |
No accessible information provided. Did not take the test. |
IELTS 2024 Result
You won't be able to get scorecards, which will be available online within a week or offline 13 calendar days after your test. You'll receive an email notification once your scores are ready, and you can view them by logging into your IELTS account on the official website.
Understanding IELTS Scores: IELTS is designed to evaluate English language skills at all levels, meaning there's no way to "fail" the ropes of the scored on a scale of 1 to 9, culminating in an overall band score. It's important to note that cutIt's scores vary by university and program; not all institutions require a specific IELTS qualification. Your overall band score is crucial if you plan to apply to universities, pursue employment, or immigrate to an English-speaking country.
IELTS Score Requirements: Countries with the highest average scores (Academic)
|
Country |
Highest average scores (Academic) |
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Germany |
7.4 |
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Greece |
7 |
|
Canada |
6.9 |
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Spain |
6.9 |
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Malaysia |
6.9 |
Top Coaching Centres of IELTS in India
British Council
Renowned for its IELTS training, the British Council helps students prepare for international education. Classes are offered in Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, and Kolkata. The regular course lasts 7 weeks (42 hours), while intensive training spans 5 days.
Fee: INR 15,100 for 8 weeks.
Contact: 911204569000, IndiaCustomerCare@britishcouncil.org
Jamboree
One of the oldest institutes, Jamboree has branches in cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Mumbai. Their month-long course includes mock tests and real-life scenarios, with classes twice a week.
Contact: 089299 00693
Megamind
Located in Delhi, this British Council and IDP-approved institute offers flexible timings and a comprehensive training program with over 20 years of experience.
Fee: INR 35,000-40,000.
Contact: 91-8882255001, study@megamindonline.com
Manya - The Princeton Review
An Indian partner of The Princeton Review, Manya employs US-certified trainers and follows a scientific approach to IELTS preparation, with centres across various cities.
Fee: INR 45,000 - 60,000.
Contact: 911140844984, info@manyagroup.com
Fateh Education
Awarded ‘tier three’ status by the British Council, Fateh has over 20 years of experience and centres in multiple cities, including Delhi and Chennai.
Contact: 91-11-6544-7770, delhi@fateheducation.com
Additional Notable Institutes
IELTS Guru: Authorised by the British Council, offering weekday and weekend classes.
TIME Institute: With over 200 centres nationwide, it has been a leader in test preparation for more than two decades.
Top Countries Accepting IELTS Exam Scores for Study and Immigration
Canada: Many universities accept IELTS scores for admission, requiring a minimum score of 6 or higher for work, study, or migration.
USA: Recognized by over 4,000 universities and employers, IELTS is accepted for study in the US, with a minimum band score of 6.5 needed.
UK: International students must take the IELTS for UK Academic and achieve a minimum overall score of 6, with the test required within two years of visa application.
Australia: A strong IELTS score can boost your study visa application, with a minimum overall band score of 5.5 in each skill necessary for admission.
New Zealand: Most universities require an overall IELTS band score of 6.0 or above for admission.
Ireland: To study or work in Ireland, applicants must achieve a minimum overall band score of 6 in IELTS.
IELTS Exam Faqs
- For how long are the IELTS scores valid?
The IELTS scores are valid for two years.
- How many attempts are there in IELTS?
There is no limit to the number of attempts that can be made to take
the IELTS exam.
- How are the IELTS tests scored?
The IELTS test is scored on a band scale ranging from 0 to 9. Each section (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking) receives a band score, and an overall band score is calculated based on the average.
- What are the IELTS test fees in India?
The IELTS test fee in India is based on the type of test. However, the fee for IELTS on Computer and IELTS on Paper tests is Rs. 17,000. The fee for IELTS Life Skills (A1 and B1) is Rs. 16,050 and for IELTS for UKVI is Rs. 17,250.
- Can I appear for the IELTS exam after completing class 12th?
Yes. Candidates looking to study undergraduate courses abroad can take the IELTS exam in their Class 12 or after completing their Class 12. IDP - the conducting body of the IELTS exam in India does not mention any eligibility criteria for candidates looking to take the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam. However, it is recommended that test takers be 16 years and above to appear for the IELTS exam.
- How can I prepare for the IELTS exam?
Preparation can include using official IELTS preparation materials, practising with sample tests, taking preparation courses, and engaging in English-speaking practice with native speakers or fellow learners.
- What is the IELTS Speaking test format?
The Speaking test consists of three parts: an introduction and interview, a long-turn where you speak on a specific topic, and a discussion with the examiner about the topic.
- How long are IELTS scores valid?
IELTS scores are generally valid for two years. After this period, you may need to retake the test if you require a valid score for applications.
You can also read: IELTS Academic Exam
