Question 1

What is IELTS?

Accepted Answer

IELTS is a secure English-language test that is accepted by more than 11,000 organisations across the globe, from education institutions to employers, as well as government and professional bodies. IELTS is not an exam.
IELTS assesses your English-language proficiency across four skills: listening, reading, writing and speaking in either an academic, higher education or practical, everyday setting.

Question 2

Can I use my IELTS Academic results for migration purposes? test

Accepted Answer

IELTS Academic and General Training are two wholly separate types of test, for two different purposes. While some individual organisations may accept an Academic result in the place of General Training, this decision is up to them. You will need to contact your specific organisation to learn more.

Question 3

Can other English language test results count towards my IELTS score?

Accepted Answer

Since IELTS is an individual English-language proficiency test, no other test results will be able to count towards your IELTS score.

Question 4

How old do I have to be to take the IELTS test?

Accepted Answer

The minimum age you can take IELTS varies by your location. In most countries there is no (minimum or maximum) age limit for the IELTS test. 
That being said, it  is not recommended that anyone under the age of 16 sits the test. Test takers under 18 will be chaperoned to  the test rooms,  from the test rooms, and  while  they  undertake their Speaking test. 

Question 5

Is IELTS too difficult?

Accepted Answer

IELTS is no more difficult than any other exam. The questions are straightforward and designed to assess how well you can use your English – not to trick you or test your opinions. As with any exam, IELTS requires thorough preparation. Also, remember that there is no pass or fail in IELTS. The results are reported on a 9-band scale (1 being the lowest, 9 being the highest). This scale has remained consistent for over 20 years. The score you need is determined by the requirements of your visa or the institution/ organisation to which you are applying. Always remember to check what score you need before you take the test.

Question 6

If I sit an IELTS test in my home country, will I get a better result?

Accepted Answer

This is a common myth. It is important to understand that the IELTS test is delivered in the same way all over the world and will be the same level of difficulty wherever you sit the test. Think about where you will feel most confident taking the test, and this may well be in your home country. Keep in mind that all IELTS examiners in each country receive the same high level of training and are closely monitored to ensure they rate your responses consistently wherever you sit the test.

Question 7

Who owns IELTS?

Accepted Answer

IELTS is jointly owned by IDP: IELTS Australia, the British Council (BC) and Cambridge Assessment English (CAE). Check out the  See: https://www.idp.com/partners/ielts/

Who accepts IELTS?

Learn More

Featured news and articles