What is IELTS?
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The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is designed to help you work, study or migrate to a country where English is the native language. This includes countries such as Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK and USA. Your ability to listen, read, write and speak in English will be assessed during the test. IELTS is graded on a scale of 1-9. IELTS is jointly owned by the British Council; IDP IELTS; and Cambridge University Press & Assessment.
Why take IELTS?
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If you are looking to work, live or study in an English-speaking country, then you must be able to demonstrate a high level of English language ability. English is the third most spoken language in the world, with 379 million speakers worldwide.
Being able to communicate in the native language of the country you wish to work or study in, has a wide range of benefits. It is also essential for job opportunities as well as integration into the community.
IELTS is the most popular test for those looking to migrate to Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the UK. It is globally recognised by more than 11,000 employers, universities, schools and immigration bodies including 3,400 institutions in the USA.
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Test Format
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In IELTS, there are four papers: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. There are two different IELTS modules: Academic and General Training. The Speaking and Listening tests are the same in both modules, but the Reading and Writing tests are different.
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Academic module
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Choose this if you wish to study at undergraduate or postgraduate levels, or if you are seeking professional registration, e.g. doctors and nurses.
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General Training module
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Choose this if you wish to migrate to an English-speaking country, (e.g. Australia, Canada, New Zealand, UK) or if you wish to train or study at below degree level.
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Latest Updates on IELTS Exam 2023:
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IELTS to introduce 'One Skill Retake' from March 2023 in India
Earlier, if a test taker was unable to get the targeted score in any module of IELTS then he/she was required to appear for the entire exam again. However, according to a recent update, IELTS will introduce a 'One Skill Retake' provision where test takers will be allowed to appear only for the module in which they scored less. So, they need not retake all four modules of the IELTS exam. This update will be effective from March 2023 in India.
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IDP to administer IELTS Exam in India
IELTS Tests in India will be administered by IDP after it acquired 100% stakes from British Council recently. It is expected that the distribution of IELTS through IDP in India would simplify the process and improve customers' experience. The entire process of acquiring these stakes and final settlements would most probably wrap up by August 2021. IELTS IDP will offer a better testing experience to test-takers.
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