What is IELTS?

Zuhana

2 min read

Updated On Aug 05, 2024

IELTS is the International English Language Testing System. It tests all four language skills: listening, reading, writing and speaking. It is intended for people who want to study or work in an English-speaking country.

Introduction
IELTS FORMAT
The test Modules are taken in the following order:

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Introduction

IELTS is the International English Language Testing System. It tests all four language skills: listening, reading, writing and speaking. It is intended for people who want to study or work in an English-speaking country.

There are two versions of the test, the Academic module and the General Training module. The Academic module is for those who want to study or train in an Englishspeaking university. University admission to undergraduate and postgraduate courses is based on the results of the Academic test.

The General Training module is mainly for those who are going to English-speaking countries to do secondary education or get a job and focuses on basic survival skills in social and workplace environments.

All candidates have to take the Listening & Speaking Modules. There are different versions for the Reading and the Writing Modules, depending on whether candidates are taking the Academic or the General Training module of the test.

IELTS FORMAT

Academic	General Training
For entry to undergraduate or postgraduate studies or for professional reasons.	For entry to vocational or training programmes not at degree level, for admission to secondary school and for immigration purposes.

The test Modules are taken in the following order:

MODULE	QUESTIONS	TIME	QUESTION TYPES
Listening	4 sections, 40 items	approximately 30 minutes	multiple choice, short answer questions, sentence completion, notes, form, table, summary, flow-chart completion, labelling a diagram/map/plan. classification, matching
AcademicReadingGeneral Training Reading	3 Sections, 40 items3 sections. 40 items	60 minutes60 minutes	multiple choice, short-answer questions, sentence completion, notes, form, table, summary, flow-chart completion, labelling a dtagranVmap/plan, classification, matching, choosing suitable paragraph headings, identification of author’s views, -yes. no. not given, -true, false, not given questions
AcademicWriting	2 tasks	60 minutes	Task 1 ( 150 Words • 20 minutes)Candidates have to look at a diagram, chart, or graph and present the information in the«- own words.Task 2(250 Words – 40 minutes) Candidates have to present a solution to a problem or present and justify an opinion.
General Training Writing	2 tasks	60 minutes	Task 1(150Words- 20minutes)Candidates have to respond to a problem with a letter asking far nformaaon.Task 2(250 Words – 40 minutes) Candidates have to present a solution to a problem or present and (unify an opeiton
Speaking		11 to 14 minutesTotal Test Time2 hours 44 minutes	ft consists of three parts:Part 1- Introduction and interview. Part 2- Long turn.Part 3- Discussion.

Practice IELTS Writing Task 1 based on report types

Zuhana

Nafia Zuhana is an experienced content writer and IELTS Trainer. Currently, she is guiding students who are appearing for IELTS General and Academic exams through ieltsmaterial.com. With an 8.5 score herself, she trains and provides test takers with strategies, tips, and nuances on how to crack the IELTS Exam. She holds a degree in Master of Arts – Creative Writing, Oxford Brookes University, UK. She has worked with The Hindu for over a year as an English language trainer.

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