ABOUT IELTS

 About the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) 423

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is an international standardized test for proficiency in the English language. Essentially, this test is conducted to test proficiency in English worldwide. The IDP Education Pty Ltd, British Council and the University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations jointly manage this test which was founded in 1989.

The two versions of the IELTS are the General Training Version and the Academic Version.

• The Academic Version: This is designed for professionals like doctors and nurses intending on studying or practicing in an English-speaking country and those who seek admission into universities and other higher education institutions.

• The General Training Version: This is aprogram for those pursuing non-academic training need some work experience, or for immigration reasons.

Please note: the Academic Version will be written by Students from India.

IELTS is mandatory for immigration to Australia, New Zealand or Canada. It is recognized by most academic institutions in Australia, Britain, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand and South Africa and by more than 3,000 academic institutions in the United States.

Why take IELTS? What are the advantages?

• Taking an IELTS test will help to open doors to international education and employment all over the globe. Moreover, candidates with high scores are particularly sought after by universities and employers in English-speaking countries.
• IELTS tests are guaranteed to show your true ability to communicate in English across all four language skills – listening, reading, writing and speaking, in a way that is relevant to the real world.
• IELTS is also used as proof of your language ability for immigration purposes.

IELTS Score

For passing the test, no minimum score is needed. All candidates are issued with a test report form or IELTS result ranging from “band 1” (Non User) to “band 9” (Expert User) and different thresholds are set by each institution. For not attempting the test at all, there is a “band 0”.

Total Score

So scoring in IELTS score is in bands and not points; bands above 6.5 are good scores and 9 being the maximum achievable result.

Validity of IELTS Score

Institutions are advised that the validity of a report is two years except in cases where the user is able to show work that has been done to maintain the level.

Which organizations accept IELTS?

Over 8,000 organizations across the globe recognize IELTS. Government agencies, multinational companies, universities and professional bodies are included in the group which accepts IELTS. The IELTS Global Recognition System can be used to locate a recognizing institution.