IELTS, the International English Language Proficiency Test is an essential requirement for non – native students for pursuing their studies in the countries like Britain, Canada, Irish and New Zealand, were the medium of instruction is English. It can also be noted that IELTS is not accepted by most universities in USA, but it is gaining recognition as an alternative to TOEFL
IELTS gauges English language skills, listening, reading, writing and speaking. The listening, reading and writing tests can be completed in one day; but the speaking test may vary a day or two according to the discretion of the test centre.
Total Test Duration is about 2 hours 45 minutes and includes
Writing format – 60 minutes
Listening - 30 Minutes
Reading - 60 Minutes
Speaking - 11 to 14 Minutes
IELTS scores, which are usually recorded as levels of ability, are called bands (9 bands). An IELTS score is valid for two years.
The test has been made compulsory for studies in Australia. Remember that you may not be granted an Australian visa without an IELTS score. But majority of the universities in other countries give you two options i.e. either TOEFL or IELTS.
About 6000 academic establishments all over the world have recognized IELTS score as a marker of the ability to handle English language with ease. It is believed that the about 1000000 aspirants take the test in pursuit of a dream career abroad. This is one of the fastest growing language tests in the world.
For more details you can log on to http://www.ielts.org/ , the official website for IELTS exams. Back