What is IELTS?

IELTS is the International English Language Testing System which tests English proficiency across the globe. Conducting 2 million tests in the past year, IELTS is the world’s most popular high stakes English-language test for study, work and migration.
 
Which organisations accept IELTS? 

IELTS is accepted by more than 8,000 organisations worldwide. These include universities, immigration departments, government agencies, professional bodies and multinational companies. 


 
Who owns IELTS and who writes the test? 

IELTS is jointly owned by British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia and Cambridge English Language Assessment and offered through more than 900 Test Centres and Locations in over 130 countries. International teams of writers contribute to IELTS test materials. Ongoing research ensures that IELTS remains fair and unbiased. Test writers from different English-speaking countries develop IELTS content so it reflects real-life situations.


 
Why are there two versions of the test? 

IELTS has two versions – Academic and General Training Test. The Academic test is for those who want to study at a tertiary level in an English-speaking country. The General Training test is for those who want to do work experience or training programs, secondary school or migrate to an English-speaking country. All candidates take the same Listening and Speaking tests but different Reading and Writing tests.

 
What is the test format and how long will it take? 

IELTS has four parts – Listening (30 minutes), Reading (60 minutes), Writing (60 minutes) and Speaking (11–14 minutes). The total test time is 2 hours and 45 minutes. The Listening, Reading and Writing tests are done in one sitting. The Speaking test may be on the same day or up to seven days before or after the other tests.

Is the test Paper Based or on a Computer?
You can choose between IELTS Academic on paper or computer or you can take it remotely with IELTS Online, at home or from any private location with a stable internet connection. 
  
What help is available for candidates with disabilities?

Test centres make every effort to cater for the special needs of candidates with disabilities. The aim is for all candidates to be assessed fairly and objectively. If you have a special need, talk to your local test centre when registering. Centres may need three months to organise arrangements. 

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