IELTS ACADEMIC WRITING: Task2/3

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Too much emphasis is placed on testing these days. The need to prepare for tests and examinations is a restriction on teachers and also exerts unnecessary pressure on young learners. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Write at least 250 words.

model answer:

For many people interested in studying abroad, one of the first problems they face is obtaining a visa to enter the country and, in many situations, the procedure is time-consuming and frustrating. As a result, there is a clear case for making visa applications less stringent. However, there is also a potential for abuse if the system was made more lenient, and both of these opinions need to be considered.

In support of simplifying the visa-application procedure, it must be remembered that obtaining a visa is one of the first steps towards studying in a foreign country. If this process is difficult then it reflects poorly on the country the student is intending to go to. Moreover, once in the country, students often find it less problematic to use the services of an immigration agent, to whom they surrender their passports and pay sometimes phenomenal sums of money. In the same way, this again reflects poorly on the host country.

Yet there is a point of view that suggests visa regulations should remain as they are, or even become stricter. It is inevitable that once a developed country opens its door to students, there will be some who exploit the opportunity without any intention of fulfilling the study requirements of their visa.

To conclude, perhaps the best solution would be to allow the schools, colleges and universities that attract international students to have greater control over those students that do arrive in a country. This would allow the institutions themselves to police the students while being overseen by the Immigration Service itself.

(267 words)

Resource: ielts-writing.info

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IELTS ACADEMIC WRITING: Task 1/3

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The table shows the percentage of journeys made by different forms of transport in four countries, The bar graph shows the results of a survey into car use.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Write at least 150 words.

model answer:

The table compares modes of transport used in four countries: Canada, Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands. Percentage of journeys made by car, bicycle, public transport and on foot are given. The bar chart shows the results of a survey into reasons people in the Canada travel to work by car.

As can be seen from the table, cars were the most frequently used from of transport in all four countries. However, the proportion of journeys made by car ranged from a low of 47 per cent in the Netherlands to a high of 90 per cent in the Canada. Figures for the other forms of transport also varied considerably. Not surprisingly, in the Netherlands, a high proportion of trips were made by bicycle (26%) and on foot (18%). The highest rate of public transport use was in Germany, where nearly one in five journeys was made by public transport.

The bar chart provides information that may help explain why car use in the Canada. The most frequently cited reason was lack of any other alternative (38%). Although a sizeable percentage said it was more convenient (12%), the other factors listed appeared to relate more to need than preference, e.g. working night shift.

Overall, the figures show considerable variation in modes of transport used, though the car continues to dominate in most contexts.

(223 words)

Resource: ielts-writing.info

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IELTS ACADEMIC WRITING: Task1/2

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The diagram shows how apple is canned.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Write at least 150 words

model answer:

The diagram shows how fresh applet is canned. First the apple is picked from trees by hand. It is then transported to the cannery by large trucks. At the cannery the apple is washed and quality checked, and any poor quality apple is rejected.

The good quality apple is put into cold storage. When it is ready for canning the apple is weighted and graded. The grading ensures that the apple of a similar size is kept together. After this the apple is peeled and the cores are removed. It is then sliced into the required sizes and put into cans. Juice or syrup is also added to the cans.

Once the cans have been filled they are sealed and cooked over heat to ensure that the cans are sterilized. When the cans are cool, a label is attached and they are placed into storage. The canned apple is now ready to be despatched to supermarkets and sold.

(158 words)

Resource: ielts-writing.info

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5 tips to help you get over your IELTS Reading test

IELTS Reading can often be an area that poses great challenges for students. On the one hand there are a lot of questions to complete and the texts themselves can be quite difficult and on the other there is a time constraint which can at best add some stress to the exam and at worst, cause students to panic.

The key, as with everything in IELTS, is to be well prepared. Knowing all the techniques is important but unless you practice these they won’t help you a lot. ‘Reading about’ is not the same as ‘being able to do’.

Here are 5 things that you must get good at in order to do well in IELTS reading

1. Learn how to identify key words in the question – usually there will be more than one. Make sure you choose words like, only, most, everyone, always etc. as well as words that will help you locate the place in the text.
2. Make sure you look at the grammar of your answer – so many students get the answer wrong because they forgot to change the word to suit the grammar of the sentence (especially in some 2/3 words answers and summaries).
3. Grammar is also important when looking at paragraphs for the headings question. Be very aware of words like however, but, nevertheless etc. – these introduce a ‘contrast’ which means that what you are currently reading may be the opposite of the reality. Negatives also need watching either in the question or the answer – they can be very tricky and you need to look more carefully at exactly what is written.
4. Skimming and scanning are important skills but make sure you understand why you are doing them. You scan for your answers by finding the key words across the text. Skimming is looking for an overview.
5. . You must finish all the passages to be certain if a high band. Panic often sets in in the reading and you need to make sure this doesn’t happen. Knowing the strategies and practising them (this is the most important thing) will help you to get faster at finding the answers.

Reading takes some practice and patience but once you have mastered getting the answers the speed will come and you will do it effortlessly.

Resource: Ieltslearningtips

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IELTS ACADEMIC WRITING: Task2/2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

A number of different medical traditions are now widely known and used: Western medicine (using drugs and surgery), herbal medicine, acupuncture (using needles at certain points of the body), homoeopathy (using minute doses of poisons), and so on. How important is the patient’s mental attitude towards his/her treatment in determining the effectiveness of the treatment?

Write at least 250 words.

model answer:

A wide range of medical treatments is available today. Patients may wonder which will be the most effective, and whether their own mental attitude to the type of treatment might affect its success. This essay will consider the second of these questions.

Many people visit their doctor or go to hospital with complete trust in the expert care offered by conventional services. However, some people do not get a satisfactory result. For example, the drugs they are prescribed may have unpleasant side-effects. Their initial positive attitude towards their treatment does them little good.

Similarly, those patients who choose alternative treatments over traditional medicine may find themselves disillusioned. Less rigorous qualification standards among alternative practitioners may mean that some healers give ineffective or damaging advice. The result, again, is that a patient who entered treatment with confidence leaves that treatment disillusioned.

On the other hand, patients may try a style of treatment with some scepticism. A person used to conventional medicines and drugs may be suspicious of treatments based on diet and lifestyle changes. Yet if they follow such programs, they may in fact notice improvements in their condition, in spite of their scepticism. Equally, a patient opposed to conventional medicine may have an accident and be saved by the effective treatment of conventional emergency services.

In conclusion, it appears that the mental attitude of the patient is not the most significant factor in determining the outcome of the treatment. Patients who enter treatment confidently may leave disillusioned while those who begin treatment sceptical of the results may find themselves surprised with what they have gained. Patients should seek the advantages which each style of care can offer.

(277 words)

Resource: ielts-writing.info

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How to listen in IELTS speaking test

When trying to improve skills in listening (this is also true of the reading) see if you can pinpoint where you are making the mistakes and concentrate in these areas in order to increase your IELTS score.

Here are a few ideas to help with the questions

Make sure that you really read the rubric – there are two things you MUST know from this

• How many words you need to use ( remember if it says No more than 3 words that doesn’t mean that you have to use three words)
• If you can use things more than once (in headings and summaries for example)

You would be surprised how many students don’t read this carefully and just assume it’s three words and that you can’t use anything more than once.

Make sure you use the time in between the listening parts well. Don’t use this to check the answers from the last section – look at the questions that are coming and identify what you need to listen for. Identify some key words that you will need to listen out for.

Make simple notes if you can, especially numbers, dates, names so that it you miss a question, you will have some information to use when you check later.

When you listen notice markers such as firstly, secondly, next, then, now let’s etc. these will help you see where you are in the stream of speech and these often tally with the questions. It’s as important to know when you’ve missed something as finding the answers.  If you are focusing on the answer to just one question you may miss several subsequent ones so make sure you know where you are by using these words and your key words.

Remember you can check later when you have finished and also when you transfer. You will probably not retain the answers from the listening but if you have a few notes and a general sense of what was said you may be able to work things out or pick the right answer.

Don’t leave a blank if possible. You don’t lose marks for a wrong answer to try and work out what it is from the rest of the language around it.

Don’t ignore grammar. Often you will need to adapt words to fit with the grammar and in summaries with a word list the first step you should be taking is to identify which sort of word you are looking for (verb, noun, plural noun, adjective etc.).

You will need to work fast so if you are confused over two possible choices write them both down and then move on (this is true in reading also). You can come back and make your choice later and with more information as you will have learnt more from your listening.

As with everything IELTS related knowing about and reading about are NOT ENOUGH. It is the practice of these techniques that will increase your score.

Finally, the more you listen to things and understand the better your listening skills will become. Don’t stay with IELTS listening. Really work on your skills widely and listen to lots of different kinds of listening genres. Songs, news, instructions (‘How to’ videos on YouTube are great – minimise the screen so you are only listening). Local radio if you can find this is great lots of accents and fast talking (US, UK, Australia, South Africa, India, Singapore, Hong Kong etc. and any other English medium programmes – really good for stretching your listening skills and fun too)

Happy Listening!

Resource: Ieltslearningtips

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IELTS ACADEMIC WRITING: Task 2/1

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Around the world, children learn English as a second language at school. However, in some places, they also learn at kindergarten (pre-school care, when children are aged two to five).

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of learning English at kindergarten.

Provide reasons for your answer. Include relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

model answer:

As English has become the dominant language worldwide, vast numbers of people are learning it. The age of English-language acquisition is also lowering at the same time. Personally, I believe it is essential for a person from a non-English speaking community to learn English, but I think it is not necessary to do so until a child is around seven or eight.

Supporters of teaching English at kindergarten – that is, when a child is aged between two to five – believe that early exposure will produce more competent speakers. Parents who are keen to give their child a head start in an ever more competitive world are persuaded by this idea. They think that if English is combined with play, it will be easily absorbed, and not seem like study at all. However, there are strong arguments against teaching English at kindergarten.

Firstly, linguists claim that a child needs to be literate in his or her own language before another is begun unless that child is already living in a completely bilingual environment – that is: his or her parents are native speakers of both languages, and both languages are used around the child.

Secondly, kindergarten teachers are less likely to be native English speakers themselves, or to be competent language teachers, which means that what children learn at kindergarten could be no more than a smattering of words – ‘Hello’ ‘Goodbyes’, numbers, colours, and the names of animals. All of these could be learnt very quickly in a school classroom at the age of seven in addition to proper grammar and good pronunciation.

Then there is the issue that kindergartens provide ‘English’ more as a marketing tool than an educational one, cashing in on concerned parents. It could also be a status symbol that a child is learning English at the age of three among the friends of his or her parents, meaning that the child’s learning experience is subordinated to the parents’ prestige.

In my view, kindergarten is a time to acquire social skills, motor skills, and a deeper understanding of a child’s own language. English can come later when a child is more capable of focused learning, and when the teaching is likely to be better. In an age where the endless pursuit of qualifications and accomplishments seems the norm, why not let a child be a child at kindergarten?

(390 words)

Resource: ielts-writing.info

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How to improve your IELTS Listening

IELTS listening usually gets the highest marks in any test and is generally the easiest area to improve. You do need to expose yourself to as much listening material as possible, but watching movies is not necessarily the best way to do this (with movies, much of the information you get is visual).

The IELTS listening exam tests for the detail of what you hear not a general overview so improving your skills to pick out detail from a large body of speech is what you need to practice.

Here are some things you can do every day to improve your listening skills and get a higher band in your IELTS test.

Try to listen to something every day. Keep it short and listen to the way things are said as well as overall content. Which words are used? Which tenses are used? Choose things that are spoken by native speakers for native speakers – news broadcasts are good or discussions. Try to stay with audio rather than vide that way you won’t have any visual clues.

Make sure you listen to a range of different types of listening: one person speaking, a conversation, lectures, demonstrations etc. Remember in the ielts listening you have 4 different types of conversation. Good places to look are the BBC website and other news and entertainment websites, also university websites (sometimes they have public lectures).

Here are some short podcasts from the BBC that will help you:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/learningenglish/general/sixminute/index.shtml

Some of the IELTS websites offer a free listening test search for these for extra IELTS practice. You can find listening material for IELTS at Exam English such as this IELTS test:

http://www.examenglish.com/IELTS/cbIELTS_listening.htm

Search for specific topics as podcasts this way you will be ‘killing two birds with one stone’ practising English and also learning information about topics that might be in the speaking or writing. Put e.g. ‘environment podcasts’ into Google and see what comes up. I did this and got the following:

http://www.learnoutloud.com/Podcast-Directory/Science/Environment (there is a 30 day free trial for this site)

http://www.eci.ox.ac.uk/podcasts/

http://www.contentious.com/2005/09/29/some-great-environmental-podcasts/

There were many more.

Try to make notes as you listen. This is a useful skill in the exam if you miss a question. Try to make notes about what you hear and then come back at the end and see if you can work out the answer. Some of these sites also provide transcripts and you can check your notes with the transcript after you have finished listening.

The more you listen the better you will become and it’s never been easier than now with the internet.

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IELTS ACADEMIC WRITING - Task 1/1

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The graph below shows the changes in maximum number of Asian elephants between 1994 and 2007.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Write at least 150 words.

model answer:

The graph shows the estimated maximum population of elephants in a range of Asian countries in both 1997 and 2004.

In most of the countries included in the graph, the population fell. This was most noticeable in Malaysia and Thailand, where the number of elephants was thought to be less than half the figure in 1997. In the former, the number of elephants dropped as low as 1000. India remained the country with by far the largest elephant population, but experienced a dramatic fall in numbers so that in 2004 there may have been as few as 7500. Despite its size, China had a very small population of at most 500 elephants by 2004.

Although the trend was downwards overall, elephant populations were thought to have remained stable in Laos and Vietnam at approximately 1200. The only country where elephants showed signs of recovering was Cambodia, where numbers may have risen by up to 200.

(155 words)

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10 tips for improving your IELTS Scores

I feel like I have been working with IELTS for years, in fact a long time ago I administered the Davies Test which was a pre-cursor of IELTS!!

I wanted to pass on to you my top 10 tips for improving your IELTS exam results.  This is what I give my own students who are preparing for this test.

Most of the students I work with need to achieve a band score of 7 or 8 and in some cases they require a band 7 in each part of the test. This is no easy task and in order to be successful you need to be prepared for not only hard,but also smart work.

If you are preparing for this test:

•  How do you feel about it?
• What is your experience?

Please share your thoughts on IELTS in the comments box below.

The ielts learning tips below are not just a theory, you may have even hear of these tips. These IELTs learning techniques are   tried and tested and should be given consideration.

The Three Golden tips for IELTS:

1. Remember it is a test of your English language ability.
2. The better your English language skills,  the easier it will be to approach the test.
3. Concentrating on IELTS books and IELTS practice tests alone is NOT the best way to prepare for the exam. 

This may sound obvious, but the emphasis should be on improving your language skills not practising for test.

The test is a means to an end not an end in itself, do not make the mistake of only concentrating on the test, that would be like you not seeing the wood for the trees!

ie: You may be lucky enough to pass the IELTS with the score you need but you will not be adequately prepared for what comes after it – your course, your job etc…

• How do you feel about this advice? Do you agree?

7 more tips you can do to make you better prepared for your IELTS exam:

1. Use the language around you. If you are in an English speaking country then this is easy. If not then use the internet.
2. Do one English activity every day – listen to the radio, watch a film, read a magazine or newspaper article, have a conversation in English. Make it something that you are interested in and then ENJOY it!
3. I you have the chance, join an English speaking club where you can practise your speaking regularly (this could be a book club, cultural exchange or a hobby club).  If you can’t find one why not start one yourself with other ‘IELTS’ friends and have one rule – ‘English only’! See if you can invite native speakers to give short talks at your meetings. The value is in the speaking and trying to improve fluency.
4. Volunteer to do something where you have to speak English – read to the children at your local primary school, help some high school students with their English etc… (if you live in an English-speaking country there are many opportunities – go to your local library to find out.)
5. Join an online community. There are several to choose from, try out a few and see which you like. My own is Gapfillers, everybody welcome!!
6. Practise little and often. Choose one activity at a time – for example reading, and really concentrate on that during your daily practice.
7. Make sure you understand why things are wrong, go over any mistakes and learn from them. If you have a lot of mistakes then do the exercise again.

If you have other tips that you can add here please share them with us.

Here are some exercises you might like:

• 3D Films– a news video with short questions
• See if you can correct these sentences
• People in Conversation – Ferhat- a listening exercise

Here are some ways of  improving your IELTS Speaking and Listening.  Stay tune for more tips on improving your IELTS Reading and IELTS Writing tasks.

Do you need help with your IELTS exam?

As a former IELTS examiner and with over 15 years of experience preparing and coaching people for the exam especially at Bands 7 and 8 I know what it takes to achieve these scores.

I work a lot with professionals (especially doctors) who need high band scores to move on with their careers.

Using my own Advanced English training site, Gapfillers and my own expertise in IELTS I can help you to get the score you are looking for.

Join my free IELTS Group in Gapfillers and get regular updates about preparing for the exam and also the chance to join in my teleseminars and seminars and all the other IELTS training opportunities I offer.

Resource: Ieltslearningtips.

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Information about IELTS test

What is IELTS?

IELTS stands for International English Language Testing System. IELTS exam is designed to assess the readiness of candidates to study or train in further or higher education courses held in English at college or university. IELTS provides a profile of a candidate's English proficiency. The profile contains not only an indication of a candidate's ability in a particular module but also an indication of overall ability.

IELTS is recognized by universities and employers in many countries, including Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK and the USA. It is also recognized by professional bodies, immigration authorities and other government agencies.

For you, the IELTS score is a proof of your English proficiency in general. IELTS is recognised worldwide and that's why if you have a good IELTS score, you can use this certificate as proof of your proficiency of handling English as a second language.

Who owns the IELTS test?

IELTS is owned and administered by the following organizations:
University of Cambridge ESOL Exams, The British Council, IDP Education Australia & IELTS Australia.

These organizations set the exam standard, maintain the IELTS exam, monitor the standard, review and change the exam format and everything related to the IELTS exam.

What is the purpose of the IELTS?

The purpose of the IELTS exam is to test the candidates' ability of handling English language who want to study or work in a country where English is the language of communication. IELTS result is also necessary for the immigration purposes.

Each year millions of people take the IELTS exam to achieve a score that would prove their English language proficiency. IELTS is one of the most widely accepted international exams. IELTS exam is available for students and immigration applicants to demonstrate their English language proficiency for specific purposes.

Not necessarily you will get admission to a foreign country or get visa to live there because of your IELTS score. But the college/ University you are going to apply or the immigrant authority would ask for an accepted proof of your English skill and your IELTS score your serve the purpose.

What are the two types of IELTS?

IELTS test is available in two formats – Academic and General Training.

» Academic Module is suitable for those who are going to apply for further studies and professional registration. If you are planning to get admitted in undergraduate or post graduate course at a college or university where English is necessary, you should take the Academic IELTS test. In fact your university would ask your academic IELTS score and the General Training IELTS score might not be accepted for this purpose.

» General Training Module is appropriate for those who are going to English-speaking countries to complete work experience and training programs or for immigration purposes. General training IELTS tests the candidates communication skills which is needed for people who is not a English speaker and want to migrate to a country where English is the language of communication.

The university or the immigration authority who will be receiving your papers can tell you in prior which form of IELTS you are required to complete. So, if you have any confusion, contacting the corresponding authority would be the best thing to do.

Should I take IELTS Academic or GT Module exam?

The IELTS Academic Module exam is intended for those who want to study in an English-speaking country or where the medium of communication is English, as well as for medical professionals who want to practice abroad.

The IELTS General Module exam is for those who want to emigrate to Australia, Canada or New Zealand, undergo practical vocational training, or do a work placement. Before you register we strongly advise you to check directly with the institution you are doing the test for. It is your responsibility to choose the module that suits your purpose.

Consider the fact that, you need an academic IELTS score (as the name implies) to get admitted in an academic (be it a college or university). For general training or immigration purposes you would require the General Training IELTS score.

If you have an academic IELTS score that would be usually accepted for immigration or training purposes as well. But GT IELTS score might not be accepted by the college/ university authority where you are planning to complete your undergraduate or postgraduate studies.

It is advisable to contact to the appropriate authority who would be processing your papers (admission/ training or immigration) to be sure which version if IELTS you are required to sit.

What are the differences between Academic and GT version of IELTS?

The Academic Version of IELTS is designed and therefore intended for those who want to  get themselves admitted in universities or any other higher educational institutes for undergraduate and postgraduate courses and for professionals  who want to study or practice in an English-speaking country.

The General Training (GT) IELTS is intended for those who are willing to gain work experience, undertake non-academic training or for immigration purposes.

The listening and speaking sections are exactly same both for the academic and General training IELTS candidates. The reading and writing sections differ. For academic IELTS candidates the reading passages are longer and are generally related to academic reading. On the contrary the GT readings are designed to test the general instruction, basic reading ability. In writing part, the academic candidates need to write a report or summary from a given chart, graph or diagram whereas the General Training candidates need to write an application on real life issues.

What are the 4 sections of IELTS?

There are 4 sections or modules in IELTS: Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking.
All candidates take the same Listening and Speaking tests, but Reading and Writing tests vary depending on whether a candidate is taking the Academic IELTS test or the General Training IELTS test.

The Academic Reading test examines the candidates' ability to read and extract specific information from the reading materials. The reading passages are generally of academic interests and are designed to test how well the candidates would be able to conduct their academic reading where skimming and finding information, understanding themes of reading are necessary. 

The General Training Reading module tests candidates' ability to find specific instructions or information from reading materials which are generally found in everyday life.

The Academic Writing tests candidates' ability to write summary of a given illustration and the ability to write essay on several issues. The presentation, writing pattern, logic, coherence and relevancy etc. are tested in writing task two (essay writing).

The General Training Writing examines the test takers skill on writing letters, applications as well as essay writing ability.

Note that the writing task two i.e. essay writing is same both for the academic and GT test takers. 

The Listening part test examinees' ability to understand the language and then recall the information heard.

The Speaking part tests the candidates ability to introduce themselves, talk about known issues, giving details of their background, discussing in details about general, social and international issues of common interest, the vocabulary, fluency and overall speaking skill.

Which countries accept the IELTS Score?

IELTS is accepted as the standard international test system for English language proficiency by a whole range of institutions. These include the majority of all education establishments operating in English in Australia, Canada, the UK and New Zealand. US educational institutions are also now starting to use it. Many international immigration services also use the IELTS as well as various professional organizations including the British and Australian Medical Councils and the UK Ministry of Defence.

In most of the countries where university courses are offered in English or people speak English to communicate, IELTS score is accepted as a proof of your English proficiency. Many European countries where English in not the first or even second language would ask for IELTS to get admitted in a university or college that offers courses in English.  

Simply consider the fact that, IELTS is a test that demonstrates a candidate's English proficiency and this exam and its score is accepted worldwide wherever you need to show a proof of your English skill.

What is the computer-based IELTS test?

The computer-based version of IELTS is an alternative of paper-and-pencil based IELTS exam. This test is also called CB IELTS and this was introduced in May 2005. You can sit for any of the two types. However computer based IELTS is only available for academic modules at selected centers only. To find out if your nearby center offer the computer based IELTS or not, you will need to contact them.

The Reading and Listening modules in CB IELTS are conducted in a Computer and the writing module can be done in a computer or in a paper based on candidate's preference. However, the speaking module would still be administered the way it had been, i.e. face-to-face interview session with an examiner.

What is the minimum age requirement for IELTS?

IELTS is recommended for candidates over the age of 16. In other word, to take the IELTS test a candidate must be 16years old or over.

For how long the IELTS test result is valid?

Generally a Test Report Form (TRF) or IELTS result is valid for 2 years. However there are other factors to determine the validity period. But usually you should consider your IELTS score valid for 2 years and if your IELTS Report Form is older than 2 years, you should consider sitting for the exam again to get another TRF form to send to your University or immigration authority.

What can I do if I am not satisfied with my results?

You might apply for an inquiry on results (EoR) procedure within six weeks from the date you took the IELTS exam, using a prescribed form by the IELTS authority if you are dissatisfied with the result you got.  The application for re-examining the score needs you to fill the form which must be paid prior to the processing of the appeal. The fees may vary depending on the countries and IELTS centers. Then your result will be re-examined and if necessary will be corrected.

How long does the IELTS exam take?

The IELTS examination takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes to complete. The time schedules for the reading, writing and listening sections are fixed but for the speaking section that may vary.

Reading and Writing sections each one takes 1 hour. The listening test takes 30 minutes. The speaking part usually lasts for 15 minutes but there is no fixed time limit for the interview or speaking section. you can expect to finish the speaking module in 15-20 minutes.

For details of the IELTS exam structure please visit About IELTS

How much does it cost to take IELTS?

The cost of the IELTS exam is not fixed. It is set by test centers. Fees may vary depending on the countries and test centers. On an average the cost is approximately GBP 140. You can find the exact fees from the official IELTS website by locating your nearby test center from http://www.ielts.org/test_centre_search/search_results.aspx

Can IELTS be an alternative to TOEFL?

The answer is YES and NO. Both the IELTS and TOEFL are designed to evaluate the test takers English skill for academic and communication purposes. Though the exam formats of these two exams are similar, there are few differences as well. You can take either TOEFL or IELTS if the college or university you are going to apply accepts either one. If they have any strict requirement for TOEFL, your IELTS score won’t be accepted. But in practice, most of the colleges, universities and immigration authorities accept both of these exams.  

It is commonly known that USA universities prefer TOEFL score whereas European and other universities accept both. But recently USA agreed to recognize IELTS and accept either IELTS or TOEFL for admission purposes and hence they will accept both the exams. However there are still some institutes and universities those want a TOEFL score and do not accept IELTS. For an updated list of the universities those accept IELTS, please visit www.ielts.org

To be on safe side, double check with your university or immigration authority before sitting for an exam.

Where are the IELTS test centers?

IELTS test centers can be found in almost all of the countries including yours. If you have seen a British Council, idp or ESOL Examination office somewhere in your locality, you can get details from there. Selct your country name and the city you live in, it will show all of the IELTS test centers around your locality. Currently there are more than 900 test centers present in 130 different countries. 

For a comprehensive and most recent list of the IELTS test centers go to the pagehttp://www.ielts.org/test_centre_search/search_results.aspx

What is the pass/ fail mark in IELTS?

In IELTS exam there is no pass or fail. IELTS results are prepared on a nine-band scale. In addition to the score for overall language ability, IELTS provides a score in the form of a profile for each of the four skills i.e. Listening, Reading, Writing and speaking. If you attend the IELTS exam and compete it, you will be given report of the result that would include individual band score of the four module as well as the Average band score. This band score would reflect your skill and ability of handling English language.

What should I bring to do the IELTS registration?

You will need the following to register yourself for the IELTS exam:

1. Registration fee. (you can pay in your local currency)
2. Valid Passport.
3. Two copy colour passport size photographs.
4. Country and Language code.

( Don't worry if you do not know the Country and Language code. You can find it from the help desk of the test centre or browse the country codes from IELTS Registration Country Code )

The above mentioned materials and papers are usually required for the IELTS exam registration. However, the requirement might change and you should always contact the local IELTS authority before going there for registration. They can give you the details of requirement for IELTS registration. Check the list and make sure you have all the necessary papers and materials for the registration.

What happens if I'm unable to appear for the IELTS test?

Don't take the IELTS exam like one of your class tests where you can contact your course teacher or administrative officer and sit for the exam at an alternative schedule. IELTS tests are pre-scheduled and you won't get an alternative exam schedule if you miss your exam.

There are some unavoidable reasons that might hinder you to take part in the exams and If you fail to appear for the IELTS test, you will be treated as a 'No Show' candidate by the IELTS exam authority. No refunds will be possible for a 'no shows' candidate. However, there are some special circumstances under which your application may be considered with some conditions. Acceptance of your form is subject to approval by the test center and if you can't give a strong reason with supporting papers you won't get any refund.

In which Countries IELTS exam is taken?

The IELTS test is taken every year across 130 countries and the number is rapidly growing. It is not far away when all of the countries of the world would have IELTS test centers. To find the complete list click in « IELTS CENTERS ». It is one of the fastest growing English language tests in the world, and sets the standard in integrity, research and innovation and that's why candidates from all around the globe are taking this exam.

Can a native English speaker take the IELTS exam?

Yes, a candidate who speaks English as the primary language can sit for the IELTS exam. There is no restriction imposed on that.

If you are a native English speaker and studied your previous degrees from institutions where English was used as part of the academic practice, you can be exempted to supply the IETLS score to the intended university/ college or in immigration offices. Contact to the university or college you are going to get admitted or contact to the immigration office to be sure if you need this test to prove your English skill or not.

Is there any special consideration in IELTS exam for the disable candidates?

IELTS aims to assess the English language communication skills of all test takers fairly and objectively. The IELTS test centers can make arrangements to accommodate special circumstances or requirements to enable test takers to attend a test centre, and to understand questions and tasks and give their answers. Test centers require three months’ notice to put special arrangements in place. Generally some special circumstances are considered like: Visual difficulties, Hearing difficulties, Illness.

If you are genuinely ill on the day of the exam or during the test you should let the test supervisor know. Special consideration may be given to test takers who report their illness on the day of the test. Like all other standard exam centres there might be some limitations on the facilities offered.

When will I get my IELTS result?

The IELTS test center will produce the result after 13 calendar days of the test. At some centers candidates may collect their results on the 13th day from the test centers or it is mailed to candidates on the 13th day.

Most candidates now collect their IELTS result from the internet. However, test centers do not give results to the candidates over the phone or by fax or e-mail. In some countries the result is sent via SMS to the number the candidate has given while registering for the test.

You can check your IELTS result online from https://results.ielts.org

Can I make some notes on the Listening & Reading question paper?

Yes you can. The examiner will not see your question papers. You can take notes like a date, a place name or other important keywords that might help you answering your listening or reading exams questions. However, DO NOT write or mark on the answer sheet.

Be careful about what you write on the questions papers. After the exam you are not allowed to take the exam papers with you. You need to submit your questions papers along with your answer sheet.

Does the IELTS test differ in various parts of the world?

IELTS is a global standard test. It does not assess candidates from different geographical location differently. However the questions may vary depending on the test locations or centers. But the IELTS authority strictly maintains the standard and questions format in all location. You are likely to get a different question set for a different geographic location but the standard of the questions, test and evaluation would be same.

There are some misconceptions that certain test centers' exams are easy compared to others, a native examiner would be hard to convince in speaking exam ... etc. But don't bother about these misconceptions and strictly focus on your exam preparation.

Can I take the IELTS exam more than once?

Yes, you can take the IELTS exam as many times as you want. Even if you have got a decent band score and the score has its validity, and you expect to get a higher score, you can sit for the IELTS exam once again at your convenient.

Few years back there was a restriction on sitting for the exam second time within a prescribed duration, but this is no longer applicable and you can sit for your IELTS exam as many times as you want. Each exam would require you to register for it and there is no waiver if you have taken the exam previously.

Will my previous IELTS score affect my new score?

No, your previous IELTS score will not affect your new IELTS score. You do not need to bother about your previous score if you are sitting for the IELTS a second time. Your score would be given as if you are sitting for the IELTS first time. In your Report Form (result), previous score won't be mentioned.

What happens if a candidate is absent on the IELTS test date?

If a candidate is absent on the day of the IELTS test s/he will be treated as a 'No Show' candidate. S/he will not get any result and if s/he was absent without giving prior notice, will normally lose the full test fee unless he/she is provides appropriate medical evidence to the center to explain the absence. Medical evidence must be provided within 5 days of the test.

What if I become ill during the IELTS test?

If you get seriously ill during the test, you should report it to the test supervisor immediately. Then the test center will take special care about the situation and might give special consideration. No consideration or favour is possible if it is not brought to the attention of the test supervisor.

Your test is important so report to the test supervisor as soon as you feel sick and you might get a favour.

How soon can I repeat the IELTS test?

From May 1, 2006 the policy on candidates re-taking IELTS has been amended. According to this new policy a candidate can re-take exam anytime s/he likes. The restriction on re-taking IELTS within 90 days has been removed and candidates are able to repeat the test whenever they wish.

Please note that, you will still be asked to indicate on your application form whether you have taken the IELTS test before or not. This information will not appear on the Test Report Form (TRF) and will only be used for monitoring purposes. So you can take the IELTS exam whenever you wish.

Can I leave the Exam room during my IELTS exam?

No, you are not permitted to leave the test room during the examination in normal circumstances. You should be prepared not to leave the exam room during the test. The time is very crucial in your test.

However, if there is an emergency or special circumstance when you have to go out, just explain it to your test supervisor. You won't be given any extra time in IELTS exam.

Can I get a better score at an IELTS test center than at others?

Absolutely NOT! IELTS officials use many means to ensure standardization of Band Scores throughout the world. Of course, it could be true that taking IELTS in an English speaking country is beneficial, but only because you are being exposed to English every day not because taking test there would give you any privilege regarding the exam.

IELTS questions, tests and result standards are strictly maintained all over the world. 

Focus on your preparation and improve your English skill, you will get a high band score from your nearby test centre.

Can I use a driving license/student ID card as a proof of my identity?

NO, driving licenses and student identity cards are not acceptable forms of identification for the IELTS registration and test. Candidates must have a valid passport or accepted identity card like Social Security Card, National ID card to register for the IELTS exam. The ID document specified on the application form has to be brought along on the test day.

Please note that, Non-EU nationals must carry their passport as a proof of their identity.

Using the Passport is the best form of presenting your identification.

What can I do if I wants to postpone or cancel my application?

If you request a postponement or cancellation of your IELTS test within 5 weeks of the test date, you'll normally be charged the full fee. You should not expect any refund from the test center but notifying would save you from marked as a No Show Candidate.

If the reason is strong enough and you are able to provide appropriate papers, medical evidence to support your request within 5 days of the test date, the test authority might return you a partial refund.

How IELTS is scored?

IELTS results are prepared on a nine-band scale. In addition to the score for overall language ability, IELTS provides a score in the form of a profile for each of the four skills (Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking). These scores are also reported on a nine-band scale. Each Overall Band Score corresponds to a descriptive statement which gives a summary of the English language ability of a candidate classified at that level. The nine bands and their descriptive statements are as follows:

9 Expert User 
Has fully operational command of the language: appropriate, accurate and fluent with complete understanding.
8 Very Good User
Has fully operational command of the language with only occasional unsystematic inaccuracies and in appropriates. Handles complex detailed argumentation well.
7 Good User
Has operational command of the language, though with occasional inaccuracies, inappropriateness and misunderstandings in some situations. Generally handles complex language well and understands detailed reasoning.
6 Competent User
Has generally effective command of the language despite some inaccuracies, inappropriates and misunderstandings. Can use and understand fairly complex language, particularly in familiar situations.
5 Modest User
Has a partial command of the language, coping with overall meaning in most situations, though is likely to make many mistakes. The candidate should be able to handle communication in his or her own field.
4 Limited User
Basic competence is limited to familiar situations. Has frequent problems in using complex language.
3 Extremely Limited User
Conveys and understands only general meaning in very familiar situations. Frequent breakdowns in communication occur.
2 Intermittent User
No real communication is possible except for the most basic information using isolated words or short formulae in familiar situations and to meet immediate needs. Has great difficulty understanding spoken and written English.
1 Non User
Essentially has no ability to use the language beyond possibly a few isolated words.
0 Did not Attempt The test
No accessible information provided.

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