What is IELTS & its Benefits? A Quick Guide to Getting it Right

• November 11th, 2022
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What is IELTS?

International English Language Testing System is an international standardized test to check the English language proficiency of the test taker.

This exam is taken by candidates to qualify for International or Abroad Education, where the universities can accept admission based on the IELTS scores. The test score is also utilized when a candidate migrates to an English-speaking country for Work Visa. As a standard qualification system, the IELTS exam is mandatory in Permanent Residency programs.

The Main 5 Countries where IELTS is mandatory for Education, Work, or Migration needs.

1. the UK

2. the USA

3. Canada

4. Australia

5. New Zealand

IELTS is mandatory to apply to German universities as well.

More than 140+ countries accept IELTS.

What does IELTS consist of?

The four Basic Language Proficiency skills test: Reading, Writing, Speaking, and Listening

IELTS Preparation

Most students prefer either of the two preparation routes: Self-study or attending test preparation classes. It is always a combination of these two that gives the best results.

How to select which one suits you best: Self-Study VS Coaching Classes?

This depends on your current English language proficiency, convenience, and affordability. You need to work on your language skills and understand the test structure to get a good band in IELTS.

Entirely relying on yourself can involve researching much to find suitable material and reading many FAQs to figure out what works and doesn’t. Prior experience in language test prep can come in handy in the case of self-study. If you have never prepared for or written a similar test, it is better to rely on an experienced coach. With the guidance of a teacher, you will be able to get the band on the first attempt itself.

Who is responsible for conducting IELTS in India?

The IELTS test is owned by Cambridge ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages), the British Council, and IDP IELTS Australia (International Development Program). Earlier, both IDP and British Council managed IELTS test centres in India. However, IDP has acquired a 100% stake from British Council and is solely responsible for administering computer-based and paper-based IELTS in India.

When is the IELTS exam conducted?

The IELTS exam is conducted several times each month, totalling 48 times for paper-based tests. Computer-delivered tests are held more frequently. It allows candidates to choose a date for the test whenever they are ready.

You will get your result for the paper-based test 13 days from the exam date. For faster results, opt for a computer-delivered test: (3-5 days) from the exam date. Computer-delivered examinations are held 1-3 times a day and several days a week, including public holidays.

How many times can an individual write the IELTS test?

Anyone can write IELTS any number of times. There is no limit! There are no free retakes, so it will be a terrible waste of your time and resources to take this test repeatedly. And don’t forget the stress that you will put yourself through! After all, it’s only a language proficiency test. So if you think you aren’t ready, be wise, and learn the language before you attempt the test. Also, solving practice question papers will give you an approximate band.

Can I take IELTS from my home?

You can take IELTS Indicator from home. The IELTS administration introduces an indicator IELTS online test with the equipment set up as required by the IELTS administrator. However, this score cannot be used in processing your application. At present, IELTS home-based testing option is not available in India. It is available in many other countries, so we hope it will be introduced in India soon.

What’s the validity of the IELTS exam?

The IELTS exam score expires two years after the result declaration date.

Where can I book my IELTS slot?

The website www.IELTS.org is the official website for IELTS. When booking a slot in India, you will be redirected to www.ieltsidpindia.com, as all test centres are managed by IDP. If you don’t feel confident booking the test yourself, we will help you with it.

Can the IELTS test be rescheduled?

Shortly, yes! Do you have to do that well in advance? Well, that is also a yes! No last-minute transfer of date is allowed. You can transfer your test date only if you apply 15 days before the test. In this case, you will have to state a reason for the transfer request. If you use the transfer 34 days before the test date, you don’t have to give any reasons.