Overview of the IELTS
International English Language Testing System (IELTS) assesses the test taker’s English skills in a band of 0 – 9.0 and provides certificates to let them study or work abroad. The IELTS certificate is accepted by more than 11,500 organizations across 140 nations. Organizations accepting IELTS scores include immigration authorities in the UK, Canada, Australia, the USA, New Zealand, etc., and top multinational companies.
| Full form | International English Language Testing System |
| Official website | https://www.ieltsidpindia.com/ |
| Conducting agency | IDP |
| Mode of test | Computer based or Paper and pen |
| Exam fee | INR 16,250 |
| Scores | Band 1 – 9.0 |
| Official address | Sikanderpur Ghosi,Sector-26, M.G. Road, Gurugram, Haryana – 122002, India. Contact Number: +91-124-4445999 Email: ielts.india@idp.com Time: Mon-Sat 09.00 AM to 05.30 PM |
Latest updates on IELTS
The IELTS fee has increased. INR 16,250 is the revised fee for IELTS computer-based and paper-based tests, and INR 16,500 is the revised fee for IELTS UKVI.
Types of IELTS
- IELTS Academic: IELTS Academic helps test takers to study abroad in an English-speaking country or work in a professional organization. The test taker’s reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills are assessed with an emphasis on academic language and setting.
- IELTS General Training: IELTS General Training is for people to work or take up non-academic courses in an English-speaking country. Just like IELTS Academic, the test taker’s reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills are assessed in IELTS General Training.
- IELTS for UKVI: This test is specifically designed for those who apply for a US visa. The language requirements are emphasized based on the UK settings. The UK visa and immigration department accepts the test as proof of English proficiency.
- IELTS Life Skills: This test is required for UK visa purposes for family and settlement routes. The test assesses listening and speaking skills at two levels, namely A1 for family routes and B1 for the settlement route.
Who needs to take an IELTS test?
Students from a non-English speaking country who need to study in an English-speaking country need to take an IELTS test to prove their English skills. These countries include the US, the UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, European countries, etc.
Is IELTS mandatory for admissions abroad?
No. IELTS is one of the many entrance tests to study abroad. While some universities demand an IELTS certificate, it is not mandatory to have an IELTS certificate. Alternatively, students can opt for other English tests like TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo, etc.
How do I book for the IELTS test online?
- Visit the official website of the IELTS by IDP India
- Select either a paper-based or online test, whichever is convenient to you.
- Choose your type of test – IELTS Academic or General Training
- Select a test city from the list and book a test on a comfortable date
- Complete the application form
- Proceed to pay the application fee
Once your application is complete, you will get a confirmation on your registered email and phone number.
Who is eligible to take the IELTS test? IELTS eligibility
Anyone who has a minimum of 16 years of age can be a candidate for the IELTS test. Test takers must submit valid proof of their identity while applying.
IELTS test slots, dates, and centers
It is important to book your IELTS test date in advance and confirm slot availability. Once you book, start preparing for the test to make it in the first attempt. There are generally 3 time slots for the IELTS test, as listed below:
Slot 1: 09:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Slot 2: 01:00 PM – 04:00 PM
Slot 3: 05:00 PM – 08:00 PM
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of taking the IELTS exam?
The IELTS certificate is proof of your English proficiency to study, work, or live in an English-speaking country abroad. A good score on the IELTS is a mandatory requirement for immigration to countries abroad.
Is the IELTS exam tough to pass through?
The level of difficulty in the IELTS test depends on your abilities, and systematic preparation can ease the difficulty level for you. If you have a good command of the English language, the test will not be a tough nut to crack. The test will not be tough if your preparation is effective.
How long is the IELTS valid?
The IELTS certificate is valid for 2 years from the date of issuance of the results.
What is the passing score in IELTS?
There is no passing score in the IELTS. The scores range from band 0 to band 9, and the minimum band score requirement is determined by the organization abroad to where you migrate
In general, a decent score of 6.5 and above can help you get admission into schools. The higher the scores, the better the chances of getting into top-notch schools.
Is it easy to score 6.5 bands in IELTS?
Your scores in the IELTS test depend on your skills and preparation. An overall score of 6.5 bands in IELTS is optimum for your academic and professional needs. If you prepare well, scoring 6.5 bands overall is not a hard nut to crack.
Which is easier, IELTS Academic or General Training?
IELTS Academic or General Training tests can be easy or tough, depending on your preparation and skills. Typically, IELTS General Training is considered easier than IELTS Academic since the topics in IELTS General Training are taken from everyday situations, whereas the topics in IELTS Academic are ideal for an academically educated crowd.
How many days are required to prepare for the IELTS test?
The period required for IELTS preparation is determined by your abilities in the English language and your personal preparation strategy. Depending on your strengths and weaknesses, you may require 15 days, 6 months, 1 year, or more to prepare for the test.
How many times can I take the IELTS test?
You can take the IELTS test as many times as you want, till you get a satisfactory score in the test.
