IELTS: The World's Most Popular English Test
IELTS is recognized by over 11,000 organizations worldwide – for university admission, immigration, and professional registration. Here's everything you need to know.
Last updated: April 2026 · Reviewed by language exam experts
IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is the world's most widely recognised English proficiency test, accepted by over 11,000 organisations worldwide for university admission, immigration, and professional registration. The exam comprises four sections — Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking — completed in approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes, and results are reported on a 9-band scale with scores valid for 2 years. Two versions exist: Academic, for university study and professional registration, and General Training, for immigration and vocational purposes.
Academic vs. General Training
IELTS Academic
For university study and professional registration
- University admission worldwide
- Professional registration (doctors, nurses)
- Academic texts in Reading section
- Task 1: Describe a graph/diagram
IELTS General Training
For immigration and vocational training
- Immigration (Canada, Australia, UK)
- Work visas and vocational training
- Everyday texts in Reading section
- Task 1: Write a letter
The Four Test Sections
Listening
30 min + 10 min transfer
4 sections with 40 questions total. From everyday conversations to academic lectures.
Reading
60 minutes
3 long texts with 40 questions. Academic: scholarly texts. General: everyday texts.
Writing
60 minutes
2 tasks: Task 1 (150+ words) and Task 2 essay (250+ words). Task 2 counts double!
Speaking
11-14 minutes
Face-to-face interview in 3 parts: Introduction, long turn with preparation, discussion.
Band Score System
IELTS uses a 9-band scale. You receive a score for each section plus an Overall Band Score (the average).
Expert User
Complete command of the language
Very Good User
Fully operational with occasional unsystematic errors
Good User
Operational command with occasional inaccuracies
Competent User
Effective command despite some inaccuracies
Modest User
Partial command, coping with overall meaning
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between IELTS Academic and General Training?
IELTS Academic is for university study and professional registration. General Training is for immigration and vocational training. The main difference is in the Reading and Writing sections: Academic has academic texts, General Training has everyday texts.
What score do I need for universities?
Most universities require an Overall 6.5 with minimum 6.0 in each section for English-taught programs. Prestigious programs (MBA, medicine) may require 7.0-7.5. Check the specific requirements of your target institution.
How long is the IELTS score valid?
IELTS scores are valid for 2 years. After that, you need to retake the test if required for applications. Some institutions may accept older results - always verify with them.
What is the difference between paper-based and computer-delivered IELTS?
The content and difficulty are identical - only the format differs. Computer-delivered results come faster (3-5 days vs 13 days for paper). The Speaking test is always a face-to-face interview with an examiner in both formats.
How much does IELTS cost?
IELTS fees vary by country, typically ranging from $200-$310 USD. Check with your local British Council or IDP test center for exact pricing. Some centers offer discounts for early registration.
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