Why choose IELTS?
Your potential, your future

Your globally trusted English language test

About the test
There are two IELTS tests to choose from, depending on your needs – Academic or General Training. We recommend you check directly with the institution or organisation you are applying to to see which test you need to take.
Choose the right test for you
IELTS has four sections – Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
- You take the Listening, Reading, and Writing tests on the same day, with no breaks in between them.
- Your Speaking test may take place on the same day as the other tests or up to a week before or after the other tests. If you take IELTS Online (IELTS Academic test only), your Speaking test will usually take place before your other tests.
- You take your Speaking test face-to-face or via video call with one of our friendly and highly trained IELTS Examiners.
Answering for Listening, Reading, and Writing
For IELTS on paper you write your answers on an answer sheet. For IELTS on computer and IELTS Online you write them on computer.
*At the end of the Listening test, for IELTS on paper, you have an extra 10 minutes to transfer your answers from the question paper to an answer sheet.There is no additional time to transfer your answers for the Reading test.
What to expect on test day
If you feel ready and know what to expect, you’ll be confident and more relaxed on test day. Here are just a few of our top tips to help you perform at your best:
- Double-check the date, time, and location of your test.
- Read each question carefully so you fully understand what it’s asking you to do.
- Some questions have suggested time limits to help you, so try and stick to them.
- You’ve read all our guidance and you’re fully prepared, so now you can take your test with confidence.
IELTS can help you to work, study or move abroad and make your dreams a reality.
Moving to a new country: If you're looking to emigrate, an IELTS test score will put you on the right path to getting your visa. Score requirements are different from country to country and may depend on the visa that you are applying for.
Studying abroad: Millions of students study abroad every year. If you want to study in a country where English is spoken, such as Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK, or the USA, IELTS could be the key to your future. Gain valuable experience, attend world-class institutions, and boost your chances of employment by studying abroad.
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