IELTS is an international standardized test of English language proficiency. It measures an individual’s ability to communicate in English across all four language skills – listening, reading, writing and speaking. It is for people who intend to study or work where English is the language of the communication. There are two versions of the IELTS: the Academic Version and the General Training Version The Academic Version is intended for those who want to enroll in universities and other institutions of higher education and for professionals such as medical doctors and nurses who want to study or practice in an English-speaking country.
The General Training Version is intended for those planning to undertake non-academic training to gain work experience or for immigration purposes. IELTS is accepted by most Australian, British, Canadian, Irish, New Zealand and South African academic institutions, over 2,000 academic institutions in the United States, and various professional organizations. It is also a requisite for immigration to Australia New Zealand and Canada.
- Listening (40 questions) – 30 minutes
- Reading (40 questions) – 60 minutes
- Writing (2 essays) – 60 minutes
- Speaking – 10 to 15 minutes.