IELTS Overview

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a widely recognized English proficiency test. It was first introduced in 1980 and has since become one of the most popular English language tests worldwide. The test is designed to assess an individual’s ability to understand and use the English language in academic and general contexts.


How many types of IELTS tests are there?


1. IELTS Academic

The IELTS Academic Test is suitable for individuals planning to enroll in international universities for undergraduate or postgraduate programs or those aiming to begin their professional journey in a foreign country. This test is specifically designed to evaluate the English language proficiency of candidates who intend to pursue higher education in an English-speaking nation.



2. IELTS General Training

The IELTS General Training test is suitable for individuals seeking to apply for educational programs below the degree level. Also, it can be taken for work-related purposes or other employment training. This test assesses the practical English language skills necessary for everyday communication in a social and professional environment.

Both types of tests include four sections: Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing. The Listening and Speaking sections are the same for both tests, while there are slight variations in the Reading and Writing sections based on the test type.

Test Format:

Listening:30 minutes (plus 10 minutes transfer time); 4 sections, 40 questions.

Reading: 60 minutes; 3 sections, 40 questions.

Writing: 60 minutes; 2 tasks (150 words and 250 words).

Speaking: 11-14 minutes; face-to-face interview with a certified examiner.

Validity: IELTS scores are valid for 2 years from the test date.

Preparation: Candidates often prepare for IELTS by studying sample tests, practicing with past papers, and taking preparation courses. Familiarizing oneself with the test format and timing is crucial.

Registration: Tests are administered by British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia, and Cambridge Assessment English. Registration can be done online or through their respective offices.

IELTS is widely respected for its fairness, reliability, and high quality, making it a popular choice for those needing to demonstrate English proficiency for academic, professional, or immigration purposes.


What skills are tested in Listening?

  • Locating and understanding specific information
  • Recognizing the writer’s opinions and attitudes
  • Understanding the logical structure of a text

What skills are tested in Reading?

  • Locating and understanding specific information
  • Recognizing the writer’s opinions and attitudes
  • Understanding the logical structure of a text

What skills are tested in Writing?

  • Describing, summarizing, or explaining visual information (graphs, charts, and diagrams)
  • Presenting a written argument or opinion on a given topic

What skills are tested in Speaking?

  • Fluency and coherence
  • Lexical resource (vocabulary usage)
  • Grammatical range and accuracy
  • Pronunciation


Benefits of Preparing IELTS From ProConsults International

You can prepare for the IELTS Test from IELTS Instructors from IELTS Preparation Centre. ProConsults International is Pioneer center for IELTS preparation recommended by 100s of students.

Availability of resources

An institution has a lot of resources with them that can help you to prepare better. Such resources can be guidespdf, etc. They can help you prepare better and practice for the examination.

Experienced instructor

To be able to instruct students, one needs to obtain at least band 7 in their IELTS test. Learning from somebody who has himself/herself secured good marks can help you broaden your vision towards the test.

Learning in a group

Learning with a group of people can teach you a lot of things about things that you did not know. Most of the IELTS classes will have people better than you or who are not as good as you are. You can learn from the people who are better than you and not make similar mistakes like the people who are not as good as you are, make.

Revisions & Mock Tests

You cannot know if you are good at something unless you push yourself to the limit. To push yourself, you need to know where your starting point is. For this, you need to attain tests frequently and improve accordingly with guidance. Your IELTS instructor will guide you throughout and make sure that you attain better results.