IELTS Overview
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a widely recognized English proficiency test. It was first introduced in 1980 and has since become one of the most popular English language tests worldwide. The test is designed to assess an individual’s ability to understand and use the English language in academic and general contexts.
How many types of IELTS tests are there?
1. IELTS Academic
The IELTS Academic Test is suitable for individuals planning to enroll in international universities for undergraduate or postgraduate programs or those aiming to begin their professional journey in a foreign country. This test is specifically designed to evaluate the English language proficiency of candidates who intend to pursue higher education in an English-speaking nation.
2. IELTS General Training
The IELTS General Training test is suitable for individuals seeking to apply for educational programs below the degree level. Also, it can be taken for work-related purposes or other employment training. This test assesses the practical English language skills necessary for everyday communication in a social and professional environment.
Format of the IELTS Test
IELTS Test Format in Detail:
| Test Section | Time Allocation | Total Number of Questions | Item Types |
|---|---|---|---|
| Listening | 30 minutes | 40 items | |
| Multiple Choice, Matching, Plan/Map/Diagram Labeling | |||
| Form/Narrative/Note/Flowchart/Summary Completion | |||
| Sentence Completion | |||
| Reading | 60 minutes | 40 items | |
| Multiple Choice, Matching, Plan/Map/Diagram Labeling | |||
| Summary/Idea/Information/Opinion Completion | |||
| True/False/, Yes/No | |||
| Sentence/Summary/Note/Table/Flowchart/Matching | |||
| Diagram/Chart/Graph/Figure Classification | |||
| Writing | 60 minutes | 1 Task | |
| Task 1:Graph/Table/Chart/Diagram Description | |||
| Task 2:Essay Writing | |||
| Speaking | 11-15 minutes | 1 Task | |
| Part 1:Introduction and Interview | |||
| Part 2:Individual Long Turn (Cue card) | |||
| Part 3:Two-way Discussion |
IELTS Score Scale:
| Band Score | Level of Proficiency |
|---|---|
| 9 | Expert user |
| 8 | Very good user |
| 7 | Good user |
| 5 | Modest user |
| 4 | Limited user |
| 2 | Intermittent user |
| 1 | Non-user |
| 0 | Did not attempt the test |