What Is the IELTS Exam and How Does It Work?

English is used worldwide for education, work, and travel. Even in countries where English is not the primary language, you may still need to show your English skills to join a study program or advance your career.

The IELTS exam, short for International English Language Testing System, is one of the most popular and trusted ways to demonstrate your English ability. It helps schools, employers, and immigration offices assess your ability to listen, read, write, and speak English effectively.

Whether you’re applying to a university, hoping to earn a scholarship, or starting a job in another country, strong English skills can help you succeed. Taking a trusted test like the IELTS is a smart way to prove your ability.

If you want to learn more about the IELTS, you’re in the right place. This article will explain what the test includes, how to register, and how to prepare with confidence.

In this guide, we will answer the following questions:

What is the History of the IELTS Exam?

The IELTS exam began in the United Kingdom in 1980 as ELTS, designed to assess English for study, work, and migration. It expanded globally in 1989 with the creation of the IELTS International partnership.

Today, IELTS is jointly owned by the British Council, International Development Program (IDP), and Cambridge University Press & Assessment, an international education organization originally founded in Australia.

Together, the three organizations bring academic expertise, international reach, and a strong research foundation to English language testing. IELTS continues to play a major role in assessing real-world English skills and is especially important for those applying to universities or immigration programs in the UK, Australia, Canada, and other English-speaking countries.

What’s the Difference Between the IELTS and the TOEFL?

If you’re applying for immigration, university, or professional opportunities abroad, you may come across the TOEFL mentioned alongside the IELTS. TOEFL stands for Test of English as a Foreign Language, and it’s another major English proficiency exam used by institutions and governments around the world.

Like the IELTS, it’s designed to measure how well non-native speakers understand and use English in real-world settings. While both tests are internationally recognized, their acceptance and use can differ quite a bit. We cover the TOEFL in more detail in a separate article. For now, here’s a quick look at how the two compare.

Test Format:

IELTS offers a few different versions depending on your goals. There’s the Academic test for students applying to universities, General Training for work or immigration, and IELTS for UKVI, which meets the specific requirements of UK Visas and Immigration. You can take the IELTS on paper, on a computer at a test center, or online from home, depending on your location and needs.

The TOEFL, in contrast, is mostly taken on a computer and is especially geared toward academic English. It’s commonly used by universities in the United States and other countries where English is the main language of instruction.

Scoring:

IELTS uses a band score system ranging from 1 to 9, with half-band increments such as 6.5 or 7.5. You receive a score for each skill (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking), and then an overall average is calculated.

The TOEFL is scored out of 120 points, with each of the four sections worth up to 30 points. Unlike IELTS, it does not use half scores.

Accent and Style:

IELTS includes a wide range of English accents, such as British, Australian, and Canadian, making it a good fit for people heading to different English-speaking countries. The test includes both academic content and everyday conversations.

TOEFL, on the other hand, leans more toward North American English and tends to stick closely to university-style academic language throughout the test.

Should I Take the IELTS or TOEFL?

If you are applying to a university in the United Kingdom, Australia, or Europe, the IELTS is often the preferred choice. It is also widely accepted for immigration and work visas in many English-speaking countries. If you are applying to schools in the United States, the TOEFL might be another option to consider. Both tests are highly respected, so the decision usually depends on your personal goals and where you plan to study, live, or work.

One of the best ways to decide is to check directly with the organization that will review your test results. Whether that is a university, an immigration office, or a professional licensing body, it is always good to confirm which test they accept.

Who Takes the IELTS and Why?

People from all over the world take the IELTS for many different reasons. Many test takers are students applying to universities, colleges, or other academic programs. Others take it to qualify for jobs, register with professional organizations, or apply for immigration to English-speaking countries such as the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, or even the United States.

You may be surprised to learn that even native English speakers may need to take the IELTS. This might be the case if they want to study abroad, apply for a visa, or look for jobs in another country. Just like everyone else, they may be asked to prove their English skills, and the IELTS is one of the most trusted ways to do that.

IELTS is accepted by thousands of organizations around the world. This includes schools, governments, and professional bodies. Because of its wide acceptance, it is a useful option for anyone who needs to show their ability to use English in everyday life, education, or the workplace.

Who Accepts the IELTS?

The IELTS is accepted by more than 12,500 organizations in over 140 countries. These include universities, governments, immigration authorities, and professional bodies.

Since it is not possible to list every organization that accepts IELTS scores, the best thing to do is check directly with the university, employer, or agency where you plan to apply. You can also use the IELTS online search tool. It lets you look up organizations by name or country and shows the score requirements for each one.

Do You Take the IELTS at Home or in Person?

Actually, the answer is both. There are two ways to take the IELTS, and you can choose the option that suits you best.

One way is to take the test at an official test center. IELTS has over 4,000 test locations in 140 countries around the world. You can choose to take the test on a computer or on paper, depending on what is available and what you prefer. In either case, the test is supervised and follows strict security procedures. To find the test locations closest to you, try the IELTS test center search tool. You can search by country and choose which version of the test you need.

Another option is IELTS Online, but it is only available in select countries and is currently only compatible with the Academic test. If you’re in one of the countries that qualify for the exam, you can take it from home or another private location, as long as it is quiet, well-lit, and has a stable internet connection. You do not need to be at home, but you do need a space where you will not be disturbed.

IELTS Online has the same format and timing as the IELTS Academic test in a test centre. The Speaking part of the test is still done live, through a video call with a certified IELTS Examiner. During the entire test, human and AI proctors monitor your session to keep it secure and fair. The same result verification system is used for IELTS Online and in-centre tests.

It is important to note that IELTS Online may not be accepted for immigration purposes, so make sure to check what is required by the organisation you are applying to.

How is the IELTS Formatted and Structured?

No matter which version of the IELTS you take, the test assesses your English skills in four areas: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Each test version has a similar format and timing, but the right one for you depends on your goals. Below, we’ll go over how each version works.

What’s on the IELTS Academic Test?

IELTS Academic is designed for people who want to study at undergraduate or postgraduate levels, or for professionals like doctors and nurses seeking professional registration. You can take this test at an official test center or online. The total test time is 2 hours and 45 minutes.

• Listening lasts about 30 minutes.
• Reading takes 60 minutes and focuses on academic-style texts and tasks.
• Writing also lasts 60 minutes with academic writing tasks.
• Speaking is a live, one-on-one conversation with an examiner, lasting 11 to 14 minutes.

While the Listening and Speaking sections are the same across all IELTS versions, the Academic test’s Reading and Writing sections are tailored to more academic contexts.

What’s on the IELTS General Training Test?

IELTS General Training is typically chosen by people who want to migrate to English-speaking countries such as the UK, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand. It’s also used for vocational training, high school-level education, or other non-university programs. This version of the IELTS is only available at test centers.

• Listening lasts around 30 minutes, plus 10 minutes to transfer your answers.
• Reading takes 60 minutes, focusing on everyday English language and situations.
• Writing also lasts 60 minutes, with tasks related to general training contexts.
• Speaking is a live interview lasting 11 to 14 minutes, the same as Academic.

The Listening and Speaking sections are identical to Academic, but Reading and Writing are more focused on practical, day-to-day English.

What’s on the IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration Test?

If you’re applying for a UK visa to live, work, or study, you may need to take a special version of the IELTS that’s approved by UKVI. These tests follow the same format as regular IELTS exams, but they must be taken in person at a UKVI-approved test center to meet stricter security requirements.

There are two main types of UKVI tests:

• IELTS for UKVI – covers all four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
• IELTS for UKVI Life Skills (A1, A2, or B1) – focuses only on Listening and Speaking.

Each version of the IELTS Life Skills test is tied to a different level of English and matches specific visa types.

A1 is the most basic, used for visas like a family or partner visa, or if you’re applying as a representative of an overseas business or an international sportsperson.

A2 is one step up and may be needed if you’re extending a family visa.

B1 is more advanced and is required for things such as British citizenship, indefinite leave to remain, and certain work-related visas. All three versions focus only on listening and speaking, and you simply need to pass, and there’s no numeric score like on the full IELTS test.

The version and score you need depend on your visa type. For example:

• Family visas might require the Life Skills A1 or A2 test.
• Work visas like the Skilled Worker visa usually require at least a 4.0 in each section of the full IELTS for UKVI.
• Student visas require different scores depending on the level of study.

Here’s a rough guide:

• A1 or A2 level – for basic family and partner visas (Life Skills test, pass required)
• B1 level – for citizenship, permanent residence, or certain work and student visas (minimum 4.0 in all sections)
• B2 or higher means more advanced English. Some visas need at least 5.5 out of 9.0 in each section, while others, like the Minister of Religion visa, require 7.0 out of 9.0.

Before you register, it’s a good idea to check the latest guidance on the official UK government website, so you can be confident you’re taking the right test for your visa.

What is a passing score for the IELTS?

In reality, there’s no such thing as passing or failing the IELTS. Instead, the test measures your current English level on a scale from 1.0 to 9.0, in four areas: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. You’ll receive a band score for each section and an overall average. Different visas, schools, or jobs require different minimum scores, but the test itself is simply a way to demonstrate your current level. That way, you and whoever reviews your results can decide if you meet the required level or if it’s time to keep studying and try again later.

How Is the IELTS Scored?

The IELTS is scored using a band system that ranges from 1.0 to 9.0. You’ll receive a band score for each of the four skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking, along with an overall band score, which is the average of those four.

In general, most test-takers score somewhere between a 5.5 and a 7.0 overall, with writing typically being the lowest-scoring section. The exact average can vary depending on the year and whether the test is Academic or General Training, but overall scores around 6.0 are very common.

How is the IELTS Listening section scored?

The Listening section has 40 questions. You get one point for every correct answer, and your total is then converted into a band score between 1.0 and 9.0.

So if you answer 16 questions correctly, your score would be around a band 5. If you get 23 right, that usually puts you at a 6. A score of 30 is typically band 7, and if you get 35 or more, you’re likely to reach band 8.

These numbers may shift slightly depending on the test version, but they provide a reliable general idea of what to expect.

How is the IELTS Reading section scored?

Like the Listening portion of the exam, the Reading section also includes 40 questions. Each correct answer gives you one point, and your total score is converted into a band from 1.0 to 9.0.

There are two different versions of the Reading test: Academic and General Training. Both are graded on the same scale, but the content differs. The Academic version includes more complex texts, so you don’t need to get quite as many answers right to earn a high score. The General Training version has simpler texts, which means you usually need more correct answers to receive a higher band score, since each question carries slightly less weight in comparison.

To give you a clearer sense of how the scoring works, here’s an approximate breakdown:

Academic Reading approximate scores:

• 15 correct answers = band 5
• 23 correct answers = band 6
• 30 correct answers = band 7
• 35 correct answers = band 8

General Training Reading approximate scores:

• 15 correct answers = band 4
• 23 correct answers = band 5
• 30 correct answers = band 6
• 35 correct answers = band 7

It’s good to keep in mind that the number of correct answers needed for each band score can vary depending on the difficulty of the test version. IELTS adjusts the scoring to ensure a band score always reflects the same level of English ability, even if one test is harder or easier than another. That is why these numbers are approximate and meant as a general guide rather than an exact target.

How is the IELTS Writing section scored?

The Writing section is checked by certified IELTS examiners who use clear scoring guidelines. Sometimes, your test might be looked at by up to four different examiners to make sure the scoring is fair and accurate.

You’ll complete two writing tasks. Task 1 requires at least 150 words, and Task 2 needs at least 250. Task 2 is more heavily weighted because it counts for twice as much as Task 1 when calculating your final Writing band score.

Your writing is evaluated based on four equally important criteria:

• Task response refers to how fully and clearly you answer the question.
• Coherence and cohesion looks at how well your ideas are organized and how smoothly they connect.
• Vocabulary is about the words you choose, including how varied they are and how accurately you use them.
• Grammar focuses on the sentence structures you use and how correctly you use them.

Each criterion counts for 25% of your Writing score. You’ll get separate scores for each task, and then those are combined to calculate your final Writing band. That score is included in your overall IELTS band average.

How is the IELTS Speaking section scored?

The Speaking test is a short, face-to-face interview with an IELTS examiner. It’s usually done in a quiet room and lasts about 11 to 14 minutes.

The examiner will ask questions in three parts. First, general questions about yourself. Next, a short talk based on a prompt. Finally, a discussion that builds on the topic from Part 2. One thing to keep in mind is that you’re being assessed on how well you communicate, not on your accent or whether you use big, fancy words.

Your performance is scored using four categories:

• Fluency and coherence – how easily you speak and how well your ideas connect.
• Vocabulary – refers to how varied and precise your word choices are throughout your speaking or writing.
• Grammar – the complexity and correctness of your sentence structures.
• Pronunciation – how clear your speech is and how easy it is to understand you.

Each area counts equally toward your final Speaking score. The examiner combines those scores to give you one overall band for Speaking, which also factors into your overall IELTS result.

How is the Overall Band Score calculated?

Alright, so now that we know how each part of the IELTS exam is scored, let’s see how it all comes together to create an overall band score.

As we’ve mentioned, your final score is the average of your four section scores and each section counts equally. After calculating this average, the score is rounded to the nearest half band to keep things simple.

Here’s how the rounding works: if your average ends in .25 or higher but less than .75, it rounds up to the next half band. If it ends in .75 or higher, it rounds up to the next whole band. Anything below .25 is rounded down. For example, an average of 7.25 becomes 7.50, 6.75 becomes 7.0, and 6.2 becomes 6.0.

Here’s what scores could look like for a few test takers:

When Will I Receive My IELTS Scores?

The time it takes to get your IELTS results depends on the type of test you took. For most people, the wait is fairly short, though the exact timing can vary.

• IELTS Online: Results are usually available within 6 to 8 days.
• IELTS on Computer: You can expect your scores within 1 to 5 days.
• IELTS on Paper: These results take a bit longer, usually up to 13 days.
• IELTS for UKVI: Paper results are also issued within 13 days.
• IELTS Life Skills for UKVI: Results typically arrive within 7 days.

How Will I Receive My IELTS Scores?

After your test, you’ll get a document called the IELTS Test Report Form. This is the official record of your scores and can be provided as a paper copy or a digital version, called an eTRF.

You can share this form with schools, employers, immigration offices, or any organization that asks for proof of your English ability. These institutions can confirm your results directly through the IELTS Results Service.

If you took the test at a center:

• IELTS on Paper or Computer: Most test centers provide paper copies of your Test Report Form. Some centers also issue eTRFs, depending on your location. It’s best to check with your test center to find out what format you’ll receive.

If you took the test remotely:

• IELTS Online: Your results will be delivered digitally through an eTRF, and you’ll be able to view them in the Test Taker Portal.

To access your scores online, you’ll need the same ID you used to register, which is usually your passport or national ID number, along with your candidate number.

Depending on where and how you registered, here’s where to look for your scores:

• If you registered through the British Council, they’ll send you an email with a link to view your results.
• If you signed up through IDP, you can log in to your IDP account to see your scores.
• If you took the test in the United States, you’ll receive an email with a link to view your scores through your IELTS USA account.

How Do I Register for the IELTS?

If you’re taking the test in the United States, the IELTS Online option isn’t available. To register for the other versions of the exam, you’ll need to use the website specifically for test takers in the U.S. First, choose whether you want the Academic or General Training version. Then, enter the city where you’d like to take the test. You’ll be able to pick between a paper-based or computer-based exam, and view the available dates, times, and fees.

If you want to take the IELTS Online, keep in mind that it’s only available in certain countries. The easiest way to check eligibility is by visiting the IDP’s registration page for IELTS Online. When you click “Book Now,” you’ll either see a message saying that IELTS Online isn’t currently available in your country, or you’ll be guided through the next steps. If it is available, you’ll be asked to test your camera, microphone, internet connection, and software. If your equipment is compatible, you can pay for the exam and take it at your scheduled time.

For all other versions of the IELTS exam such as Academic, General Training, or UKVI whether taken on paper or computer, you can register directly through the IELTS website. Click the Book a test button, then select your country, city, and the version of the test you want to take. After that, fill out the online application and pay the fee. Once everything is submitted, you will receive a confirmation by email or text message.

How Much Does the IELTS Cost?

The fees for the IELTS exam varies by country, but it usually falls between $215 and $310 USD.

When you register in your own country, the exact fee appears in your local currency, so you will know precisely what you need to pay before completing your booking.

Can I Retake the IELTS?

There are no official limits on how many times you can take the IELTS exam. Unlike the TOEFL, IELTS does not require a waiting period between tests. You can register for another exam whenever you feel ready, as long as there are available testing slots in your area.

The registration process and fees are the same whether you are taking the IELTS for the first time or retaking it.

In addition, IELTS now offers the option to retake just one section of the test through the IELTS One Skill Retake. This will allow test-takers to improve your score in a single area such as Listening, Reading, Writing, or Speaking without retaking the full exam. It is available for both Academic and General Training tests. You must take the One Skill Retake within 60 days of your original test, and you will receive your results in about three to five days. Pricing varies by location, so check with your local test center for details.

How Should I Prepare for the IELTS?

IELTS offers a comprehensive selection of official tools and materials designed to help people succeed. From interactive courses and expert-led webinars to helpful videos and up-to-date articles, these resources cover every aspect of the test to support your study at every stage.

For starters, you can access sample tests for all IELTS versions to familiarize yourself with the format and types of questions you will face. You’ll find that IELTS has separated the sample tests for each of the three different types of exams: academic, general training, and UKVI. Each set includes detailed PDF guides explaining the exam content, along with MP3 files to help you practice your listening skills.

Another great resource is that when you book your IELTS test through IDP, you gain free, 30-day access to an official online preparation course developed by Macquarie University. This course offers video tutorials, practice questions, grammar and vocabulary lessons, and mock tests covering all four sections of the IELTS. Along with this, IELTS provides sample tests with detailed guides and listening practice files, teacher-led courses, webinars, books, articles, and helpful videos that explain how the Writing test is scored.

You can also download the free IELTS by IDP app, which allows you to study from anywhere. With this all-in-one app, you can book your test, access practice materials tailored to your level, and check your test results as soon as they are available. Designed to support you at every step of your IELTS journey, the app helps you prepare confidently and stay informed, so you can focus on your next big adventure. The IELTS by IDP app is available for download on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

The range of free resources provided by IELTS is extensive, and exploring their official website is the most effective way to become familiar with all the tools available.

If you’re looking for additional support beyond official IELTS courses, don’t underestimate the power of YouTube. A great example is the channel IELTS Advantage, which offers over 100 free videos aimed at helping users score Band 7 or higher. With more than 3 million subscribers and hundreds of comments thanking the creator, it’s clear that many test takers have found the content genuinely helpful.

While there are plenty of free resources, some folks feel compelled to pay for an IELTS prep course provided by a private company. If you find yourself in that camp, you can check out Magoosh, BestMyTest, and E2Language. Each of these companies is well-respected within the IELTS community and offers supplemental study materials at affordable rates.

Online groups are another great resource when preparing for the IELTS. You can check out the Free IELTS preparation group on Facebook, which has over 27,000 members, or visit the subreddit r/IELTS, which has more than 79,000. These communities are helpful spaces to find encouragement, share experiences, and ask for advice.

Conclusion

Getting ready for the IELTS takes time and commitment, but it can be a valuable step toward your next opportunity. Whether you’re preparing for school, work, or immigration, building your English skills through this exam shows that you are serious about your future. Although the journey may seem challenging at times, steady practice and the right resources will help you improve.

If you are still deciding which English exam to take, think about what fits best with your goals and where you plan to use your results. The IELTS is widely accepted in countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. If you are also considering the TOEFL, we have a full article that can help you compare both tests.

If you need help preparing documents for school, work, or immigration, we are here to support you. We offer certified translations for transcripts, diplomas, birth certificates, and more. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out.

Author: Aaron Randolph | LinkedIn