IELTS is an English proficiency test for people trying to study or find work in an English-speaking country. Shutterstock
Like most students, your dream is to go abroad for higher education. But it comes with certain conditions. One of the most common criteria demanded by foreign institutes is that you have the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) tag.
What is IELTS
IELTS is an English proficiency test that assesses the English comprehension of people who are trying to study or find work in an English-speaking country. Only IELTS scores are accepted for UK visa and immigration purposes, both inside and outside that country. Your IELTS score is used by colleges and visa-granting authorities to check if you have a good grounding in the English language. Though IELTS is not required for admission, it is helpful when you apply for a student visa. IELTS
IELTS tests your proficiency in four main areas:
Who conducts IELTS
IELTS is conducted by IDP Education Limited, an international education organisation that offers student placement in Australia, New Zealand, the UK, the US, the Republic of Ireland and Canada. It is the sole distributor of IELTS testing in India.
Types of IELTS
There are two broad versions of IELTS:
Apart from these, IELTS has another version that is designed to meet the requirements of UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) for certain visa categories and other immigration purposes.
Scope of IELTS
IELTS is the most widely used English language test for work, study and migration for international students. More than 10,000 organisations in 140 countries around the world recognise this English proficiency test, which has been developed in conjunction with professionals from throughout the world.
Eligibility for IELTS
There is no eligibility criteria for IELTS, which means that you can appear for the test regardless of your age and educational background. However, IDP Education Limited recommends that you should be at least 16 years old to sit for this language proficiency test.
IELTS exam modes
The IELTS test is available in two formats in India:
When to your write IELTS exam
The IELTS authorities add new speaking subjects in January, May and September. In view of this, the best time to appear for IELTS is in December, April and August — just before the speaking subjects are changed. By this stage, you will be familiar with most of the topics and that’ll help you clear the test. However, if you want to apply to foreign universities or colleges, keep in mind their application deadlines and appear for the test accordingly.
IELTS exam format
IELTS is divided into four sections. The test lasts 2 hours and 45 minutes in total. Listening, Reading, and Writing are the three sections that can be completed in one sitting. The final element, Speaking, can be done on the same day as the other portions or up to seven days before or after.
The listening and speaking tests are given to all test participants. But the reading and writing components alter depending on whether the test-taker is appearing for the Academic or General IELTS exam.
Validity of IELTS score
An IELTS Test Report Form (TRF) is valid for two years.
IELTS charges
The IELTS Test fee is Rs 15,500 approximately. There are some other charges, including a charge for changing the test centre and another for rescheduling the test. Cancellation charges are extra.
IELTS exam dates in 2022
IELTS India holds tests on 48 fixed dates each year — up to four times each month, depending on local demand. A candidate may resit the IELTS test at any time.