Introduction to the IELTS test: what it is and why it is important.
“The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a standardized test used to evaluate the language proficiency of non-native English speakers.”
In other words, the IELTS test decides whether your English is ‘at the right standard for’good enough’ for entrance to a school, university, government agency or workplace with English as a first language. This test will show your English language proficiency in four key language skills:
- Listening
- Reading
- Writing
- Speaking
If you are new to the test, you are probably hearing numbers like…5.5 or…8.0. What are those numbers? Where are test centers near me? How do I get the score I want? Is the test easy or hard? How long do I need to study for? Should I take the TOEFL test?
I answer those questions, among others, across my website in my blog. This page, firstly, is about the details of the test itself. The following will inform you about terminology (UKVI, General Training, Academic, Computer Based Test, Paper Based Test…etc), testing locations, prices, special needs accomdations, what to bring on the day, etc. Happy reading!
The four sections of the Academic IELTS test: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
Listening
The Listening section of the IELTS test assesses a candidate’s ability to understand spoken English in different contexts. The test includes four audio recordings of native English speakers. You need to answer a series of questions based on the recordings. Each of the four audio recordings contains 10 questions each, totaling 40 questions. The recordings become increasingly difficult, and test-takers must be able to understand a range of accents and understand specific details. The question types vary, including mulitiple choice, gap fill and matching. Below is an example of a listening question.
Reading
The Reading section of the IELTS test evaluates a candidate’s reading comprehension skills. The test includes three reading passages. Each passage contains about two pages of reading, totalling six pages. At 13-14 questions per passage, the reading also ends up at 40 questions as per the listening. Candidates are required to answer a range of questions based on the texts. The passages are sourced from academic textbooks, journals, and magazines, and test-takers must be able to understand complex vocabulary and sentence structures. The question types, like the listening, vary with question types including:
- Sentence Completion
- Matching
- Multiple Choice
- True, False and Not Given
- Yes, No and Not Given
- Paragraph Heading Matching
Below is an axample of some reading questions:
Writing
The Writing section of the IELTS test assesses a candidate’s ability to express their ideas in writing. The test includes two writing tasks:
- Writing Task One (20 minutes) : Write about a graph, chart, diagram, process or map.
- Writing Task Two (40 minutes): Write a 4-5 paragraph essay about an opinion, problem solution, advantages or disadvantages, etc. about a topic.
The test evaluates a range of skills, including grammar, vocabulary, coherence, and cohesion. Below are example questions for each of the two writing tasks.
Speaking
The Speaking section of the IELTS test evaluates a candidate’s ability to communicate effectively in spoken English. The test is conducted as a face-to-face interview with a trained examiner and is divided into three parts. In Part 1, candidates are asked general questions about themselves and their background. In Part 2, you speak about a topic for two minutes, and in Part 3, the examiner asks you more difficult questions about your country or people in society. The test assesses a range of skills, including fluency, pronunciation, grammar, and vocabulary. Below is an example of some possible speaking questions for each of the three parts.
What is the General Training version of the IELTS test?
The IELTS test is available in two different versions: Academic and General Training. My materials, and most other websites, focus mostly on the Academic version. However, as you will learn below, almost 70% of the test content is the same between these two versions. So, you can gain a lot of knowledge for your General Training test using my site!
Academic Version
The Academic version is for individuals who wish to study at a higher education institution in an English-speaking environment (it could be your own country or another country) or for professionals who want to register for specific courses.
General Training Version
The General Training version, on the other hand, is for individuals who wish to work, migrate or undertake non-academic training programs in an English-speaking country.
Differences
While both versions of the test assess the same four language skills, there are slight variations/difficulty in the content to suit the specific needs of each test-taker. While the Speaking and Listening sections are the same, the reading and writing sections are quite different. Let’s examine the differences clearly below:
Speaking
Speaking: Both the Academic version and the General Training version are identical – same questions, same scoring criteria.
Listening
Listening: Both the Academic version and the General Training version are identical – same questions, same scoring criteria.
Reading
Here is our first big difference! The Academic reading, as mentioned in our previous section, covers non-fiction texts from magazines and journals. It is very difficult! On the other hand, the General Training version reading content is much easier – think brochures and advertisments. Materials you see day to day.
The scoring, however, is much stricter for the General Training version than the Academic version for the Reading. To get a band 6.0 on the Academic Reading test, a score of 23 / 40 would suffice. For the General Training version, you would need a reading score of 30 / 40 to get a band 6.0!
So, to sum up – the reading content is more difficult in terms of comprehension and familarity in the Academic Reading version of the test. However, the General Training version of the Reading test requires a higher percentage of correct answers to get your desired band score.
Writing
Our second major difference is writing. While both versions require two pieces of writing, they are quite different as we can see below:
Writing Task One on the Academic version is…tough! Hard! You have about 20 minutes to describe a graph (line chart, bar chart, pie graph(s), or a table, or a process or even a map, in great detail. Many students struggle with Writing Task One due to the time limit and the overwhelming about of data they see on the test.
Writing Task One on the General Training version is…undeniably easier. It’s a letter or email response to a question. In my opinion, this is the biggest difference between the two tests.
Writing Task Two? The same for both tests.
There you have it!
What is the UKVI version of the IELTS test?
The UKVI version of the IELTS test is a variation of the IELTS test designed specifically for individuals who need to prove their English language proficiency for UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI) purposes. This version of the test is identical in format and content to the IELTS Academic test, but with some additional security measures, such as a unique reference number and a photograph taken on the day of the test. The test is accepted by the UK government as proof of English language proficiency for visa applications and other immigration-related purposes.
The Test Format: time and durations.
The IELTS test duration is 2 hours and 45 minutes, and it is divided into four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The Listening, Reading, and Writing sections are conducted in one sitting, while the Speaking section is conducted separately on the same day or within a week before or after the other three sections.
Listening : 30-40 minutes
The Listening section of the IELTS test is 30 minutes long, and candidates are given an additional 10 minutes extra to transfer their answers to the answer sheet (paper based test) or 2 minutes to check the answers (computer based test). The section includes four audio recordings, and candidates are required to answer 40 questions based on the recordings.
Reading : 60 minutes
The Reading section of the IELTS test is 60 minutes long, and candidates are required to answer 40 questions based on three reading passages. The texts become increasingly difficult, and candidates must be able to understand a range of vocabulary and sentence structures. Candidates enter/write their answers on the answer sheet as they take the test. There is NO ADDITIONAL TIME to transfer your answers or check your answers like the Listening section!
Writing : 60 minutes
The Writing section of the IELTS test is 60 minutes long, and candidates are required to complete two writing tasks. Task 1 should be completed in 20 minutes and requires test-takers to describe or explain a graph, chart, or diagram. Task 2 should be completed in 40 minutes and requires candidates to write an essay on a given topic. ALWAYS DO Task 2 first! I know, it seems strange to start with the ‘last’ section but trust me, this is important. Task 2 is worth 67% of your total writing score as oposed to Task 1 at 33%. This is why we make sure we complete Task 2 fully before starting Task 1 – you do NOT want to run out of time or rush your conclusion for Task 2! Trust me.
Speaking: 14 minutes
The Speaking section of the IELTS test is 11-14 minutes long, and a trained examiner will interview you. The section is divided into three parts, and candidates must be able to speak fluently, coherently, and accurately to demonstrate their English language proficiency.
Computer-delivered or Paper-based tests: Differences and Advantages
Computer-delivered and paper-based tests are two different ways of administering the IELTS exam. While both formats aim to assess the same skills, there are a few differences between them that test-takers should be aware of.
The first and most obvious difference is the mode of delivery. In a computer-delivered test, the Reading, Writing and Listening portions of the exam are taken on a computer, whereas in a paper-based test, the Reading, Writing and Listening portions of the exam are taken on paper.
One of the main advantages of a computer-delivered test is that it allows for greater flexibility in terms of test dates and locations. Computer-delivered tests are available more frequently than paper-based tests. Thus, you can choose from a wider range of test dates and locations. Additionally, computer-delivered tests can provide candidates with their results faster than paper-based tests, with results typically available within five to seven days. Paper-based tests may take longer to process, with results typically available within 13 days.
So what are the main differences in terms of the taking of the actual test? Let’s go through the sections and their differences/possible advantages.
Speaking
The Speaking section is done face-to-face with an examiner and is the exact same for both tests.
Reading
The Reading section of the computer-delivered test, in my opinion, has one major advantage over the paper based test. The main reason is that the computer screen is split with the reading text on one side and the questions/answer portion on the other side. This is a great feature as you aren’t flipping pages and going back and forth with the paper based test.
Both versions allow you to highlight, underline and circle words in the passages. You can use a pencil on the paper based test or the computer mouse on the computer based test.
That split screen however…it’s so nice to be able to look at a question and where it matches the text quickly and efficiently. Easy winner for me
WINNER FOR READING: Computer Based Test
Listening
The Listening section of both tests is very similar, however if I were forced to choose one that was more advantagous, I would actually choose the paper based test. The reason is the timing given at the end to ‘check’ or ‘transfer’ your answers.
For the computer based test, you are entering your answers directly on the screen. At the end of the test you have only two minutes to check for any errors.
The paper based test, however, has a separate piece of paper, numbered 1-40, in which you transfer your answers over from the content sheet you were writing your answers on during the listening. You have a full 10 minutes to do this transfer.
What’s important to consider here, is that the actual transfer of answers does not take 10 minutes. Many answers are just letters from multiple choice. Therefore, you gain quite a bit of additional time to look at notes, check spelling, check for plurals, etc. It’s a small advantage, but significant enough for me to declare:
WINNER FOR LISTENING: Paper Based Test
Writing
The Writing test can vary in terms of advantages based on the test taker, and I am sure you can guess what that is – typing skills or handwriting skills! Are you a faster typer with band handwriting? Take the computer based test. Are you a slow typer that can write by hand legibly and quickly? Take the paper based test.
I still need to decide a winner here, and there is one additional factor that will give us a decision. Drum roll please…word count. The computer automatically shows you how many words you have typed, and for some test-takers, this can be a valuable tool in helping them complete their essay on time. So…
WINNER FOR WRITING: Computer Based Test
In conclusion, both computer-delivered and paper-based tests are valid ways of assessing your English language proficiency. While there are differences between the two formats, each format has its own advantages and disadvantages, and you should choose the format that best suits your personal preferences and needs. Personally, I think in this
The test center and test-taking environment.
The test center and test-taking environment can have a significant impact on a candidate’s performance on the IELTS exam. IELTS test centers are typically located in central areas of cities, and are designed to provide a comfortable and secure testing environment. That doesn’t mean you won’t be super nervous though, and as comfortable as the waiting room chairs are, you need to make sure you are familiar with the environment. Test-takers should arrive at the test center well before the scheduled start time to allow for check-in and orientation. Also, ensure that you bring the required identification and materials for the test.
Almost all test centers use headphones nowadays for the listening section. That doesn’t mean that they are perfect though, and technical problems can arise. Hot tip – when you are checking that they are working in advance for the listening section, and notice a problem, ask to change/check the headphones before the exam starts. Once it has began you cannot!
Usually, you will do the listening, reading and writing consecutively throughout the morning. After you finish these sections, you will typically have a lunch break before waiting your turn to take the speaking test with an examiner in the afternoon – or, in some cases, a separate day.
Test scores and band levels:
Each of the Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking sections are scored on a band scale of 0-9, with 9 being the highest possible score. The band scale is designed to measure a test-taker’s proficiency in English language skills, with a focus on communication in a variety of contexts.
It’s important to note that the IELTS exam measures a test-taker’s English language proficiency, rather than knowledge of specific academic subjects. Therefore, the exam is often used as a requirement for admission to universities or for immigration purposes. The band scores on the IELTS exam provide a clear indication of a test-taker’s English language proficiency, and will determine eligibility for academic or professional programs.
To calculate the overall band score for the IELTS exam, the scores of all four sections are combined and averaged. For example, if a test-taker receives a score of 7 in Listening, 8 in Reading, 6 in Writing, and 7 in Speaking, the overall band score would be (7+8+6+7) / 4 = 7. The overall band score is then rounded up or down to the nearest half or whole band score, depending on the final calculation.
Section Band Scores
Each section of the IELTS exam is scored based on specific criteria, with different weighting for each criterion. Each criterion is scored on a band scale of 0-9, and the scores are then combined and averaged to produce the final score for that section.
The Speaking section is scored on a range of criteria, including fluency and coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range and accuracy, and pronunciation.
Speaking Public Band Descriptors
Each of the two writing tasks also have their own range of scored criteria, which consists of task response, coherence and cohesion (essay organization), lexical resource (vocabulary) and grammatical range and accuracy.
Writing Task One Public Band Descriptors
Writing Task Two Public Band Descriptors
The band levels on the IELTS exam are designed to provide a clear indication of a test-taker’s English language proficiency. A band score of 9 indicates an expert level of English proficiency, while a band score of 1 indicates a non-user or beginner level of English proficiency. The band levels in between these extremes reflect increasing levels of proficiency, with a band score of 5 considered a minimum level of proficiency for most academic and professional purposes.
The validity period of IELTS test scores.
The validity period of IELTS test scores is two years from the date of the test. After two years, the test scores are considered expired and cannot be used for admission to academic programs or immigration purposes.
The process for appealing or re-scoring an IELTS test.
If a test-taker is not satisfied with their IELTS test results, they may request a re-marking or re-scoring of their test. They must complete a form found on the official IELTS website, and submit it to the test center within six weeks of the test date.
An Enquiry on Results (EOR), which is another name for remarking or rescoring, involves having the test re-marked by a senior examiner who was not involved in the original marking.
How long do I need to wait before my new (possibly) score?
This process can take up to six weeks to complete, and the test-taker will be notified of the new results once they are available. It is important to note that there is a fee associated with requesting a re-scoring, which varies depending on the test center and location.
If the test-taker is still not satisfied with the results after the re-scoring process, they may appeal the decision within six weeks of receiving the re-scored results. A panel of senior examiners will review the marking and make a final decision on the result. The appeals process can take up to 10 weeks to complete, and again, there is another fee associated with this process. This fee varies depending on the test center and location.
What can happen to my score?
The most your score can increase is by 0.5.
Your score cannot go down during an EOR.
So, is it worth trying? Well, yes and no. There are people who have received higher scores on the listening and/or writing sections before. There is human error that can come into play here. However, you really need to be familiar with the grading criteria and quite sure that the examiner made a mistake. If this is true, and you can afford it, then there may not be much to lose. It’s not that common a practice though and I would recommend reading about other candidate’s experiences about remarking on Reddit, as, I myself have not had a student ever challenge a score.
The cost of taking the IELTS test.
The IELTS test is very expensive.
Actually, it is too expensive. Yes I said it. I hate the price, I don’t agree with the price, etc. While I do think the test is very good at assessing a candidate’s English proficiency, and compiled in a much better format than the awful TOEFL test…the price is too high.
Anyone that thinks the price is reasonable doesn’t live in a low socioeconomic community where a family’s income may depend on a nursing job abroad. I will save my rant about this topic for a blog post. For now, here is the info regarding the price.
Approximate Fees
The cost of taking the IELTS test can vary depending on several factors, including the location, format, and level of the exam. More specifically, the cost of the IELTS exam ranges from $185 to $325 USD. For example, in the United States, the cost of the IELTS exam is typically around $245 USD, while in the United Kingdom, the cost is around £170 GBP.
Why so expensive?
One of the primary factors that can affect the cost of the IELTS exam is the format of the exam. The cost of the computer-delivered IELTS exam, for example, is typically slightly higher than the cost of the paper-based exam. I guess the ‘added cost of the technology’ required to administer the exam is the reason for this.
Another factor that can affect the cost of the IELTS exam is the level of the exam. The cost of the Academic version is typically slightly higher than the cost of the General Training level. Apparently, this is due to the added complexity of the test.
In addition to the base cost of the IELTS exam, there may be additional fees associated with the exam.
The final factor in determining the price for the exam is the company’s profit margins. Like I said – in my opinion, it’s overpriced considering the life situations of many test-takers. But it is what it is – hopefully you can get your desired score your first try and not have to retake it over and over!
How to register for the IELTS test and payment options.
To register for the IELTS test, you can book with the British Council or IDP online.
You will be prompted to create an account and provide personal information, including your full name, contact information, and identification details. Test-takers can then select their preferred payment method to pay the registration fee, including:
- Credit Card
- Paypal
- Cash (at the testing location)
- Bank Transfer
Once the registration is complete, test-takers will receive a confirmation email with important details about the test date, time, and location.
You should register well in advance of the desired test date, as test dates can fill up quickly and there may be limited availability.
The test day: what to expect, what to bring, and what not to bring.
On the day of the IELTS test, test-takers should arrive at the test center at least 30 minutes before the scheduled start time. They should bring:
- a valid photo ID (passport/national ID card)
- a printout of the confirmation email
- two pens and pencils, an eraser and a pencil sharpener
There are some things you cannot bring with you to take the test. You can leave them at home or have them stored at a designated area at the test center. Items you cannot bring inside the test room are:
- electronic devices (phones, smartwatches, etc.)
- food and drinks
- bags
- notes and other study materials
The use of biometric data in the IELTS test.
To ensure the security and integrity of the IELTS test, test-takers are required to provide biometric data such as fingerprints and photographs. This data is collected at the test center on the test day and is used to verify the test-taker’s identity.
This is done to prevent fraud and impersonation. It is important to note that the biometric data collected is securely stored and used only for the purpose of the IELTS test.
Special accommodations for test-takers with disabilities or special needs.
The IELTS test aims to provide equal opportunities to all test-takers, including those with disabilities or special needs. Test-takers who require special accommodations can make a request at the time of registration, providing appropriate medical or supporting documentation. Examples of special accommodations include:
- extra time
- enlarged test materials
- separate testing rooms
- other assistive technology
This is all pre-arranged so expect to notify the center in advance. For example, the only way to get extra time is with proof of a medical condition or for a mother needing to feed her infant. Visually impaired test takers can request braille papers in advance.