What is IELTS?

IELTS is the most renowned English test in the world. If you want to work, study or live abroad, an IELTS test can help you make your project a reality.

Intended for non-native speakers, IELTS training is an internationally recognised system for testing English language ability in four categories:

• Listening
• Reading
• Writing
• Speaking

IELTS Test Types

There are two different types of IELTS test and once graded, your IELTS score is valid for two years.

• Academic IELTS is for international students who wish to study at a UK university or join an institute of higher education.
• General IELTS classes focus on English survival skills and social and workplace language, ideal for those who are planning to migrate to English-speaking countries such as Australia, Canada and New Zealand.

Ways to take IELTS Academic 

IELTS on paper test

You can take IELTS Academic test and General Training test on paper. The contents, test part times, question types, scoring and results of the IELTS on paper test are the exact same as the IELTS on computer test, but your test day experience is a little different. Test day staff will hand you booklets and answer sheets before each test and will then collect these booklets and answer sheets, before moving on to the next test part.

If you take IELTS on paper, you will complete the Reading, Listening and Writing parts on paper. You can use a pen or HB-pencil to complete your Writing test, but you must use an HB-pencil to write your Listening and Reading answers on the answer sheet. In the IELTS on paper test, the Writing, Reading, and Listening tests are all completed on the same day with no breaks between each test. The Speaking test is completed in a face-to-face interview with an IELTS examiner, and this can be done one week before or after your test date.

IELTS on computer test

You can choose to take IELTS on a computer for both the General Training and Academic tests. The test format, question types, time allocated to each test part and content is the same for both IELTS on computer test and the IELTS on paper test. The only difference is in your test day experience. If you choose to complete your IELTS test on a computer, you will do the Reading, Listening, and Writing parts of the test using a computer. All answers will be typed on the screen. You will also be able to write notes on a notes sheet during the Listening test.

The IELTS Speaking remains the same, with a face-to-face interview with an examiner. The Speaking test will be completed either just before, or just after the Reading, Listening, and Writing test parts.

Taking IELTS on a computer has many benefits. For example, your results arrive a lot faster. With IELTS on computer your results will be available within 3 to 5 days.

IELTS Online: Bookings now open

Same test, more flexibility

Wish you could take your IELTS Academic test from the comfort of your own home? Now it’s possible with IELTS Online. All you need is a Windows or Mac operating system, a stable internet connection, and a well-lit private space, and you’re good to go!

IELTS Online is the same test as the IELTS on paper or IELTS on computer Academic test taken in a test centre. The difference with IELTS Online is you don’t even have to leave your house to take it!

Just like the IELTS Academic test taken in a test centre, IELTS Online assesses your English-language proficiency across four key skills: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. The Speaking test is still conducted one-to-one with an accredited IELTS examiner, via a live video call.