What is IELTS? | The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is designed to help you work, study or migrate to a country where English is the native language. This includes countries such as Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK and USA. Your ability to listen, read, write and speak in English will be assessed during the test. IELTS is graded on a scale of 1-9. IELTS is jointly owned by the British Council; IDP IELTS; and Cambridge University Press & Assessment. |
Why take IELTS? | If you are looking to work, live or study in an English-speaking country, then you must be able to demonstrate a high level of English language ability. English is the third most spoken language in the world, with 379 million speakers worldwide. Being able to communicate in the native language of the country you wish to work or study in, has a wide range of benefits. It is also essential for job opportunities as well as integration into the community. IELTS is the most popular test for those looking to migrate to Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the UK. It is globally recognised by more than 11,000 employers, universities, schools and immigration bodies including 3,400 institutions in the USA. |
IELTS test types
IELTS has two types: IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training. Both tests assess your English language skills in listening, reading, writing and speaking.
Ways to take IELTS
- IELTS on paper
Test takers sit at a desk with the question papers and answer sheets for the Listening, Reading and Writing tests in an official IELTS test centre. Test takers write their answers in either pen or pencil. The Speaking test is carried out face-to-face with a trained IELTS Examiner.
- IELTS on computer
Test takers sit their Listening, Reading and Writing tests on a computer at an official IELTS test centre. The questions are shown on screen and answers are submitted using a keyboard and a mouse. The Speaking test is carried out face-to-face with a trained IELTS Examiner.
- There are 3 globally recognised English Proficiency Courses that you can expect to sit in, and we can help advise which test you need to train for to be accepted into your chosen institution or destination.
- IELTS comprises 4 components: Listening (Approx. 30 minutes), Reading (60 minutes), Writing (60 minutes with 2 tasks to complete) and Speaking (11 – 14 minute face-to-face interview).
English Language Centre
- The English Language Centre (ELC) is part of the Westminster College and offer English Proficiency Courses coaching to score high in the International English language Testing System.