Educational institutions, employers, professional registration bodies and government immigration agencies often require proof of English language skills as part of their recruitment or admission procedures. IELTS is widely accepted for these purposes.
Test format
In IELTS, there are four papers: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. There are two different IELTS modules: Academic and General Training. The Speaking and Listening tests are the same in both modules, but the Reading and Writing tests are different.
Academic module
Choose this if you wish to study at undergraduate or postgraduate levels, or if you are seeking professional registration, e.g. doctors and nurses. Find out what’s in the IELTS Academic module.
General Training module
Choose this if you wish to migrate to an English-speaking country, (e.g. Australia, Canada, New Zealand, UK) or if you wish to train or study at below degree level. Find out what’s in the IELTS General Training module.
Preparation
Free: Paper-based sample tests
Download Free IELTS Sample Test Question
Frequently asked questions
Download IELTS General Training FAQs
Download IELTS Academic FAQs
Information for candidates
A guide to the test with advice on preparing for the test tips for your test day and useful links.
Download the IELTS information for candidates
Free online course – Inside IELTS
Learn about the skills you need for IELTS Academic and beyond, on this free online course from the experts who produce the test.
Register for Inside IELTS
Test dates
IELTS is available on 48 dates during the year:
. Academic module: available on all of the dates
. General Training module: available on 24 dates.
Go to the IELTS website to find IELTS test dates
Results
There is no pass or fail in IELTS. You are graded on your performance in the test, using scores from 1–9 for each part of the test: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. Your results from the four parts then produce an overall score. The unique 9-band scoring system measures performance in a consistent manner, wherever and whenever the test is taken. It is internationally recognised and understood.
