|
IELTS | |||
| What | |||
| The
International English Language Testing System (IELTS) assesses the level of English
of non-native speakers who need to use English in an Academic or Professional
context. IELTS is generally regarded as a very comprehensive test, divided into 4 clearly distinct parts: Listening (30 mins) 
40 questions in 4 sections: multiple choice, sentence completion, table/summary
completion, labelling a diagram
Heard once onlyReading (60 mins)
40 questions.
Texts become increasingly difficult
Variety of tasks including: choosing from a 'heading bank', classification, matching
lists/phrases, sentence completion Writing (60 mins)
Task 1: (min 150 words) Candidates present information from a diagram or table. Task 2: (min 300
words) Candidates present a point of view or a for/against argument Speaking (10-15 mins)
Conversation between the candidate and an examiner
Sections include: extended discourse, responding to picture/photo prompts, speculation.
IELTS test results are presented on a Test Report form. Each module is graded separately as a 'Band Score'. The module scores are then added together to provide an overall Band Score. Band scores range from 1 (=non user) to 9 (=expert user). Most universities and institutions of Higher Education will ask for an overall Band score (generally between 6 - 7.5). | |||
| Why | |||
|
The worldwide demand for IELTS is increasing at a rapid rate. Many universities
and colleges throughout the English-speaking world now stipulate a minimum IELTS
score from prospective students who are non-native English speakers. In certain countries
- eg, Australia, New Zealand and the UK - non-native speakers applying for permanent
or temporary residence have to gain a stipulated IELTS score if they are to meet
the visa requirements.
An IELTS score serves as an official recognition - and measure of progress - of
a student's level of English. | |||
| Who | |||
|
The IELTS exam is administered by the British Council, University of Cambridge
Local Exams Syndicate and IDP Education Australia.
Any non-native speaker of English can take IELTS, provided they have access to
an IELTS testing centre (often the nearest British Council). | |||
| When | |||
|
The IELTS exam is administered all year round. Testing centres can arrange an
IELTS test at any time, according to local demand.
Results are generally issued 2 weeks after the test.
NB: Candidates have to wait 3 months before taking the IELTS test again. | |||
| Where | |||
|
Administered at designated IELTS testing centres (often the British Council or
an appointed University).
Available at over 200 approved IELTS centres in 105 different countries. | |||
| How | |||
|
| |||
 | |||
| |||
 | | | |
