What is IELTS?
The International English Language Testing System, or IELTS, is a globally recognized examination of English language proficiency for people who are non-native English speakers.
About the IELTS test
IELTS is honored by the majority of Australian, British, Canadian, European and New Zealand academic organisations, by more than 3,000 American universities and colleges, and by different corporate and business establishments all over the world.
It is jointly owned and managed by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia and Cambridge.
Validity
The test result is valid for 24 months.
Institutions do not consider IELTS test results older than two years, unless the test takers prove that they have maintained their level of language proficiency.
Scoring
There is actually NO requisite score to pass the IELTS test. The Test Report Form is given to all IELTS candidates after taking the test with a score from "Band 1" ("non-user") to "Band 9" ("expert user"). A score of "Band 0" is given to those who do not attempt the test. Every institution has its own different band requirement.
Types of IELTS tests
There are three types of IELTS tests depending on your goals and reasons for taking it. Here is a breakdown of them:
IELTS General
To be taken by those who would like to undergo non-academic training or obtain work experience, or for immigration purposes.
₱12,720
- Valid for visas in English-speaking countries
- Aimed at students below degree-level
- Also accepted by training providers
- Must be taken at a test center
IELTS Academic
To be taken by those who will study in universities and other higher education institutions, as well as by professionals such as medical doctors or nurses.
₱12,720
- Aimed at students at degree-level
- Required for some professional registrations
- Take online or at a test center
IELTS UKVI
To be taken by those whose intent is to work in, study in, or migrate to the United Kingdom. Recognized by UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration).
₱13,100
- Recognised by UK Visas and Immigration
- Accredits English proficiency in UK visa applications for work, study or migration
- Must be taken in person at an official "IELTS for UKVI" test center
A streamlined, simpler version of the UKVI test called "Life Skills" is also available to accredit English proficiency in certain visa applications.
This only tests your listening and speaking.
Check our blog post on UKVI differences for more info!
The four parts of the IELTS test (except Life Skills)
Listening
30 minutes
Reading
60 minutes
Writing
60 minutes
Speaking
11-14 minutes
The Listening, Reading, and Writing tests are conducted and concluded in one session. The Speaking test can be taken on the same day or up to 7 days before or after the other tests. All IELTS candidates are given the same Listening and Speaking tests, while the Reading and Writing exams vary depending on whether the test taker is taking the Academic or General Training modules.
IELTS candidates taking the UKVI for Life Skills test are only required to complete the Speaking and Listening components.
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