International English Language Testing System
Purpose: It is an international standardized test of English language proficiency for non-native English language speakers who want to study, work, or migrate to a country where English is the primary language of communication.
Acceptance: It is accepted by over 11,000 organizations worldwide, including universities, employers, and immigration authorities in countries like the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the USA.
The British Council (no longer functional in India)
IDP Education (IDP: IELTS Australia)
Cambridge English Language Assessment (part of Cambridge University Press & Assessment)
British Council and IDP conduct tests, while Cambridge sets the paper and publishes practice material.
IELTS Academic
For higher education or professional work
Minimum 6.5 overall and 6 each required (may vary across countries)
IELTS General Training
For secondary education or work visa
Minimum 6 band overall and 5.5 each required (may vary across countries)
Listening
4 parts
40 Qs
30 min recording
Tests different English accents
Reading
Comprehension passages
1 hour
Writing
Report/Letter Writing
Essay
1 hour
Speaking
Semi-formal interview
11-14 min
General Qs, Cue Card, Opinion-based Qs
Listening
You get 10 minutes at the end to transfer your answers to a separate answer sheet.
Reading
Texts and questions are in a paper booklet. You can write notes directly on the question paper.
Writing
You write your essays manually. You must ensure your handwriting is legible. You have to count your words manually.
Speaking
Face-to-face with a certified examiner, often scheduled on a different day (up to a week before or after the main test).
Result Delivery Time
Slower, typically 7 days
Test Environment
Typically conducted in larger rooms (like university halls), with many test-takers.
Test Order
Writing → Listening → Reading
Availability
One day per week (Saturdays)
Listening
Only 2 minutes at the end to transfer answers, as you type directly.
Reading
Text and questions are displayed side-by-side on the screen. You can highlight and make notes digitally.
Writing
You type your essays. An automatic word counter is visible on the screen. Easier to edit, copy, and paste text.
Speaking
Face-to-face with a certified examiner, often scheduled on the same day as the computer test (before or after).
Result Delivery Time
Much faster, typically 2 to 5 days
Test Environment
Usually conducted in smaller, purpose-built rooms with fewer test-takers, often resulting in a quieter environment.
Test Order
Listening → Reading → Writing.
Availability
More frequent test dates, often available up to 7 days a week, sometimes 3 session per day