Understand the basics of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), the world's most popular English language proficiency test for higher education and global migration.
IELTS assesses the English language skills of people who want to study or work where English is used as the main language of communication. It tests four key skills:
Millions of tests are taken each year, and it's recognised by over 11,000 organisations worldwide, including universities, employers, immigration authorities, and professional bodies.
There are two main types of the IELTS test. Choosing the right one depends on your goals:
This test is for people applying for higher education (university) or professional registration in an English-speaking environment. It assesses whether you are ready to begin studying or training in English at an undergraduate or postgraduate level.
Focuses on academic language skills.
This test is for those going to English-speaking countries for secondary education, work experience, or training programs. It is also often required for migration to Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the UK.
Focuses on basic survival skills in broad social and workplace contexts.
While the Listening and Speaking sections are the same for both tests, the Reading and Writing sections differ based on the test type (Academic or General Training).
Not sure which one to take? Always check the requirements of the organisation or institution you are applying to.
Learn about RegistrationThe IELTS test has four parts, and the total test time is 2 hours and 45 minutes.
The Listening, Reading, and Writing tests are usually completed on the same day, one after the other, with no breaks in between. The Speaking test might be taken on the same day or up to seven days before or after the other tests, depending on the test centre.
See Detailed Format & RulesIELTS uses a 9-band scoring system to measure English language proficiency. You receive an individual band score for each of the four skills (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking) and an Overall Band Score.
Scores range from Band 0 ("Did not attempt the test") to Band 9 ("Expert user"). Each band corresponds to a level of English competence. For example:
Most universities and organisations require a specific minimum band score in each skill and overall.
Learn More About Scores & Calculators