IELTS Overview and Structure

IELTS is an international testing service which is set as standard to pass for non-English speakers who wish to pursue their studies or professional work/job in English speaking countries. This is organized by British Council and AEO. Since its inception, it has proven itself in more than 130

countries. Students and professionals have opportunity to take test on more than 500 test centers around the globe. Millions of colleges and universities use IELTS to evaluate English proficiency of the applicants. This gives them more security and satisfaction of mind. IELTS global acceptability easy approach have set it as landmark in language competency tests.

There are two formats;

1. Academic (for education purpose)
2. General Training (for workers)

Results are scored on a unique 9-band system from 1 (Non User) to 9 (Expert). IELTS scores are valid for two years.

Structure

The test has four (4) parts – Listening, Writing,  Reading and Speaking. Click on each to expand for details;

Listening

This section has four subsequent parts. Total number of questions in this section is 40 and the time allowed to solve these questions is 30 minutes. You would have to listen 4 different recorded segments and answer the given questions derived from those recordings.

Speaking

This section comprises a face to face discussion with examiner. Usually a friendly atmosphere is adopted for student’s convenience. Session may long about 11 to 14 minutes.

Reading

You would have to read three passages and answer about 40 questions with in time of 30 minutes. Passages are randomly selected from books, magazines and newspapers.

Writing

You are given two topics to write on, one of about 150 and second of about 250 words with in 60 minutes. Topic are chosen on general interest rather technical ones.