What is IELTS, and who is it for?

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) measures the language ability of a candidate and indicates whether they are ready to study or train in English.

The IELTS test is jointly managed by Cambridge English Language Assessment, the British Council and IDP IELTS Australia.

The IELTS test is widely recognised by universities and employers in many countries and is used by candidates for many different reasons, including:

• Students wishing to study in a UK university at undergraduate or postgraduate level
• Overseas doctors, dentists and nurses wishing to train or work in the UK
• People wishing to emigrate to Australia, New Zealand or Canada

For more information on IELTS please visit www.britishcouncil.org/takeielts

Academic or General Training (GT) Module?

There are two IELTS modules available: Academic and General Training (GT). It is your responsibility to indicate on your application which module you wish to take.

The Academic Module is for candidates wishing to study at undergraduate or postgraduate levels, and for those seeking professional registration.

The General Training (GT) Module is for candidates who wishing to migrate to an English speaking country (Australia, Canada, New Zealand, UK), and for those wishing to train or study below degree level.

Every organisation sets its own entry requirements. In some cases both versions of IELTS may be accepted.

Visit Who accepts IELTS? to search for the organisations you want to apply to, and find out which version you need. If you are in doubt as to which version to take, you should contact the organisations directly in order to check their requirements.

Please note that the General Training (GT) module is not offered on all test dates.

Test Format

All candidates are tested in four areas: listening, reading, writing and speaking. All 4 modules are taken on the same day, unless otherwise stated. Candidates should set aside a whole day (9:00 - 5:30) for the test.

The modules are taken in the following order:

• Listening - 30 minutes
• Reading - 60 minutes
• Writing - 60 minutes
• Speaking - 10-15 minutes