IELTS

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is an important phrase for those looking forward to studying abroad.

This test is a standard assessment for English skills such as writing, reading, speaking and listening. The test essentially reflects a student’s proficiency in terms of using the language at study, work, and play, and in general. Developed by experts in language assessment, IELTS is recognised and accepted in over 9,000 institutions across the globe. With more than 2 million tests taken in a year, IELTS scores are accepted by universities, schools, employers, professional bodies and the immigration authorities.As the top English proficiency test for higher education and global migration, IELTS is divided into two systems.

IELTS Academic:This system of IELTS is for those planning for higher studies abroad and for professional registration. The test assesses your readiness to survive in an English speaking environment

IELTS General Training:This system stresses on the survival skills, social and in the workplace. This is exclusively for those travelling to English-speaking nations for work experience, training programmes, and secondary education. This test is a must for those applying immigration in the UK, Australia, New Zealand and Canada.

The IELTS Test Format

You are assessed on your abilities in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in English. The total time taken for the test is 2 hrs 45 mins.

Listening: This test takes 30 mins. You listen to four recorded texts, conversations, and monologues by native speakers and answer the questions.

Academic Reading: This test takes 60 minutes and includes three texts which range from factual and descriptive to analytical and conversational. This is appropriate for students applying for university courses.

Academic Writing: This 60-minutes test includes two tasks to be accomplished by under-graduate/post-graduate-seeking candidates. The first task needs you to describe and explain data provided in forms of charts, graphs, diagrams, etc. In the second task, you have to write an argumentative essay or that with a point-of-view or a problem.

Speaking: This test takes about 11 to 14 minutes to complete and evaluates your spoken English proficiency. A short discussion pertaining to you, followed by an extempore lasting 2 minutes. Next will be a few questions and answers based on this topic, giving you further scope to discuss issues.

Scoring in IELTS

The results come out as band scores ranging on a scale of 1 to 9, the latter being the highest.

Registering for IELTS

• Download the application form or visit the nearest centre for form and available dates and fees.
• Fill in the application, enclose the test fee and send it directly or submit at the test centre.
• Attach your identity proof such as a copy of your passport and ensure you enter the passport number in your application form.
• Wait for the confirmation from the test centre and be careful to note separate dates for the Speaking test.

Useful link for IELTS :-

http://takeielts.britishcouncil.org/choose-ielts/what-ielts

http://takeielts.britishcouncil.org/ielts-ukvi  ( If you are looking admisison in a YK University then UKVI IELTS must be given ).

https://www.ielts.org/what-is-ielts/ielts-for-migration/united-kingdom

http://www.cambridgeenglish.org/exams/ielts/

http://takeielts.britishcouncil.org/book ( Regitering for a IELTS Test )