IELTS Introduction
The IELTS is an abbreviation of the International English Language Testing System. Simply put, it is an examination that assesses your English language skills in terms of spoken and written English. If you wish to study or work in a country where English is the primary language of communication, mainly Anglophone countries, you need to assure the university admission officers and visa officers that you are proficient in the language.
The IELTS exam measures your skills in listening, reading, writing and speaking through two test formats, namely IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training. While IELTS Academic can be taken up by those who wish to go for higher education or professional registration, IELTS General Training is for those who are looking at migrating to Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the UK. For academic and work purposes, the US also accepts the same.
There are universally three governing bodies for the IELTS namely, British Council, IDP IELTS: Australia and Cambridge English Language Assessment. There are two types of IELTS examinations which are the IELTS Academic test which is more suitable for candidates seeking admission to a foreign college or university and the IELTS General test which is suitable for candidates seeking foreign employment. IELTS scores are accepted internationally in nearly all countries and the scores are valid for up to 2 years after the date of the exam
Live Online Classes
- Preparations for IELTS
- Complete Personal Attention
- Live Classes Every Day - 4 to 5 Hours
- Convenient Time Slots
- 90+ Hours of Training
- Revision Workshops
- Recorded Session after the class
IELTS 2020 Test Dates
- The IELTS Test is conducted every month and one can choose to take it as per his/her convenience.
- The process of choosing a test date out of the given global test dates for IELTS 2020 is quite easy.
- Just choose the one that aligns with your university admission timelines or work-related deadlines in case you’re applying for immigration.
- Let’s have a look at the IELTS Test dates for the year 2020
The IELTS Test is conducted every month and one can choose to take it as per his/her convenience. The process of choosing a test date out of the given global test dates for IELTS 2020 is quite easy. Just choose the one that aligns with your university admission timelines or work-related deadlines in case you’re applying for immigration. Let’s have a look at the IELTS Test dates for the year 2020
| Month | Dates | Test Format |
|---|---|---|
| 20-Jan | 1st week of of January 2020 | Academic & General Training |
| 20-Jan | 2nd week of January 2020 | Academic Only |
| 20-Jan | 3rd week of January 2020 | Academic Only |
| 20-Jan | 3rd week of January 2020 | Academic & General Training |
| 20-Feb | 1st week of February 2020 | Academic & General Training |
| 20-Feb | 1st week of February 2020 | Academic Only |
| 20-Feb | 2nd week of February 2020 | Academic & General Training |
| 20-Feb | 4th week of February 2020 | Academic Only |
| 20-Mar | 1st week of March 2020 | Academic & General Training |
| 20-Mar | 2nd week of March 2020 | Academic Only |
| 20-Mar | 3rd week of March 2020 | Academic Only |
| 20-Mar | 4th week of March 2020 | Academic & General Training |
| 20-Apr | 1st week of April 2020 | Academic & General Training |
| 20-Apr | 2nd week of April 2020 | Academic Only |
| 20-Apr | 3rd week of April 2020 | Academic & General Training |
| 20-Apr | 4th week of April 2020 | Academic Only |
| 20-May | 1st week of May 2020 | Academic Only |
| 20-May | 2nd week of May 2020 | Academic & General Training |
| 20-May | 3rd week of May 2020 | Academic Only |
| 20-May | 4th week of May 2020 | Academic & General Training |
| 20-Jun | 1st week of June 2020 | Academic & General Training |
| 20-Jun | 1st week of June 2020 | Academic Only |
| 20-Jun | 4th week of June 2020 | Academic Only |
| 20-Jun | Last week of of June 2020 | Academic & General Training |
| 20-Jul | 1st week of July 2020 | Academic & General Training |
| 20-Jul | 2nd week of July 2020 | Academic Only |
| 20-Jul | 3rd week of July 2020 | Academic Only |
| 20-Jul | Last week of of July 2020 | Academic & General Training |
| 20-Aug | 1st week of August 2020 | Academic & General Training |
| 20-Aug | 2nd week of August 2020 | Academic Only |
| 20-Aug | 3rd week of August 2020 | Academic & General Training |
| 20-Aug | 4th week of August 2020 | Academic Only |
| 20-Sep | 2nd week of September 2020 | Academic Only |
| 20-Sep | 2nd week of September 2020 | Academic & General Training |
| 20-Sep | 3rd week of September 2020 | Academic Only |
| 20-Sep | last week of of September 2020 | Academic & General Training |
| 20-Oct | 2nd week of October 2020 | Academic Only |
| 20-Oct | 2nd week of October 2020 | Academic & General Training |
| 20-Oct | 3rd week of October 2020 | Academic Only |
| 20-Oct | Last week of of October 2020 | Academic & General Training |
| 20-Nov | 1st week of November 2020 | Academic & General Training |
| 20-Nov | 1st week of November 2020 | Academic Only |
| 20-Nov | 2nd week of November 2020 | Academic & General Training |
| 20-Nov | 3rd week of November 2020 | Academic Only |
| 20-Dec | 1st week of December 2020 | Academic & General Training |
| 20-Dec | 2nd week of December 2020 | Academic Only |
| 20-Dec | 2nd week of December 2020 | Academic Only |
| 20-Dec | 3rd week of December 2020 | Academic & General Training |
- Go to the "IELTS.org" and go to the "Find a Test Location" page
- Choose the "IELTS" option
- Select your country from the drop-down list available on the page
- Click on the "find a test location"
- A page with the list of test centers and location will appear on the screen.
- Choose your preferred location & center and click on "book now" tab next to it.
- Follow the directions on the page to reach the page with local test dates for IELTS 2020.
IELTS 2020 Eligibility Criteria
- According to the three governing bodies, there are no eligibility criteria of IELTS 2020 exam which needs to be met in order for a candidate to give the IELTS exam except that the candidate must carry a valid passport at the time of the exam.
- The IELTS 2020 exam has no eligibility criteria as it is a test of proficiency in the English language and is, therefore, open to candidates of all ages and backgrounds
IELTS 2020 Application Form
- Aspirants should check with the university/organization regarding their requirement of the IELTS 2020 version; Academic or General Training test.
- Typically, one is required to produce the IELTS Academic scores for universities/institutions and General Training scores for residence visas, work permits, and other professional organizations.
- Just choose the one that aligns with your university admission timelines or work-related deadlines in case you’re applying for immigration.
- Let’s have a look at the IELTS Test dates for the year 2020
Following steps need to be followed during filling up of the IELTS application form 2020:
Open the official website (each IELTS conducting body has different application portals), read the information carefully before applying for the same.
Candidates can register for IELTS at British Council either online or by post/courier.
For registering through post/courier, applicants need to complete the following three steps:
IELTS 2020 Test Fee
- In order to complete your IELTS test registration, you need to pay an amount of Rs 13,250
- Credit/ Debit (Visa or Master) and Net banking
- Demand Draft - Please ensure that the demand draft is drawn in favour of "IDP EDUCATION INDIA PRIVATE LIMITED, Payable at New Delhi" and is made from the list of approved banks.
- Bank deposit Alternatively, candidates can deposit cash in ICICI/Allahabad bank branches through a customized deposit slip that can either be downloaded from IELTS IDP India website or obtained from the nearest IELTS IDP branch office/ referral partner.
The IELTS test fee in India differs as per the test type. Please refer below table for detailed information on IELTS test fees:
| Test Type | Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Computer-delivered IELTS | 13250 |
| IELTS for UKVI | 18500 |
| Life Skills | 13850 |
| Pen and paper based IELTS | 13250 |
IELTS 2020 Exam Pattern
- IELTS is a test of four language skills- listening, reading, writing and speaking.
- The test has two types-IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training.
- Listening and speaking sections are same for both the test types, but the subject matter of the Reading and Writing components make differences based on which test you are keen to take?
- Let’s have a look at the IELTS Test dates for the year 2020
Students can take IELTS in paper-based or computer-based mode. In paper-based mode, candidates have to sit at a disk along with question papers and answer sheets. They need to use either pen or HB-pencils to write their answers. On the other hand, in computer-based test, candidates can see all the questions on computer screen and they can even answer questions using a mouse and a keyboard
IELTS Academic
If you are willing to apply for higher education or professional registration in an English speaking environment then you need to take IELTS Academic. The test assesses whether you are capable to start studying or training.
IELTS General Training
The format of ILETS General Training is developed for the students who are keen to go to English speaking country for work experience, secondary education or training programs. It is also a prerequisite for migration to Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the UK.
IELTS Academic
If you are willing to apply for higher education or professional registration in an English speaking environment then you need to take IELTS Academic. The test assesses whether you are capable to start studying or training.
Here is a comprehensive analysis of ILETS test format 2020:
The test can assess your expertise in reading, listening, writing and speaking in less than 180 minutes. Looking into the total testing time is 2 hours and 45 minutes. Listening, Reading and Writing sections of the test can be completed on the same day with no breaks.
IELTS Test Format- Listening Section
Students need to listen four recording of native English speakers and accordingly write their answers to a number of questions.
Quick Description of Listening Section
- No. of sections : Four sections. Each section is followed by 10 questions.
- Testing time : About 30 minutes+10 minutes transfer time.
- Total number of questions : 40 questions.
- Type of questions : Matching, multiple choice, plan/map/diagram labelling, sentence completion, form/note/table/flow-chart/summary completion.
- Marking Scheme : 1 mark for each questions.
ILETS Test Pattern- Academic Reading
There will be 40 questions in total in Reading section which will test a variety of your reading skills. IELTS Academic test include three long texts which are retrieved from journals, books, newspapers and magazines.
Quick Description of Academic Reading
- No. of passage : There will be three passages with a diversity of questions followed by a number of tasks
- Testing time : 60 minutes
- Total number of questions : 40 questions.
- Type of questions : You will find a variety of task types such as multiple choice, identifying information, matching information, identifying the writer’s views/claims, matching headings, matching sentence endings, matching features, sentence completion, note completion, summary completion, flow-chart completion, table completion, diagram label completion and short-answer questions.
- Marking Scheme : 1 mark for each questions.
IELTS Exam Pattern- General Training Reading
Candidates are tested in terms of a number of reading skills. Three will be three sections. Candidates will find two or three short texts and numerous shorter texts in section 1. On the other hand, section 2 includes two texts and the section 3 has one long text.
Quick Description of IELTS General Training Reading
- No. of sections : Three sections
- Testing time : 60 minutes
- Total number of questions : 40 questions.
- Type of questions : Multiple choice, identifying writer’s views/claims, identifying information, matching information, matching features, matching headings, matching sentence endings, summary completion, sentence completion, note completion, flow-chart completion, table completion, diagram label completion, short-answer questions.
- Marking Scheme : 1 mark for each questions.
IELTS Exam Pattern- Writing Test Format
Candidates will find two types of tasks:
Quick Description of IELTS Academic Writing
- First Task : You will find a table, graph, chart or diagram and need to explain, describe and summarize the same in your own words.
- Second task : You need to write an essay in response to a point of view, problem or argument.
- Question paper format : Two tasks will be given and both need to be completed.
- Testing time : 60 minutes
- No. of questions : Two questions
IELTS 2020 Syllabus
| Question Paper format | There will be four different sections consists 10 questions in each.Section 1- a conversation between two speakers.Section 2 There is a monologue (such as, a speech will be given about local facilities).Section 3- A conversation between two main speakers such as there are two university students in the ongoing discussion, guided by a tutor.Section 4- You will find a monologue on an academic subject.Please Note- You can hear the recording only once. |
|---|---|
| Testing Time | About 30 minutes along with additional 10 minutes (transfer time) |
| Total No. of questions | 40 |
| Type of tasks | Multiple choice questions, sentence completion, map/plan/diagram labeling, matching, form/ table/ note/flow-chart/summary completion |
| Answering | Test takes can write their answers on the question paper itself soon they listen. At the end of the test, they will be provided 10 minutes of time to transfer their answers to the prescribed answer sheet. You should be careful enough while writing answers on the answer sheet as the poor grammar, spelling errors will be penalized |
| Marks Offered | 1 mark for each question |
| Question Paper format | There will be three reading passages based on which candidates have to answer a variety of questions |
|---|---|
| Testing Time | 60 minutes |
| Total No. of questions | 40 Questions |
| Type of tasks | Multiple choice, identifying the writer's views/claims, identifying information, matching information, matching features, matching headings, matching sentence endings, summary completion, sentence completion, flow-chart completion, note completion, diagram label completion, table completion, and short-answer questions |
| Answering | Test takes have to put their answers directly on the answer sheet. There will be no extra time given to transfer. Poor grammar and spelling error will be penalized |
| Marks Offered | 1 mark for each question |
| Question Paper format | There will be three sections in the question paper.Section 1- Either two or three short texts or several shorter texts.Section 2-Two texts.Section 3- Only one long text |
|---|---|
| Testing Time | 60 minutes |
| Total No. of questions | 40 Questions |
| Type of tasks | Multiple choice, identifying writer's views/claims, identifying information, matching information, matching features, matching headings, matching sentence endings, summary completion, sentence completion, note completion, flow-chart completion, diagram label completion, table completion, short-answer questions |
| Answering | Test takes have to mark their answers on answer sheet only. There will be no extra time provided. |
| Marks Offered | 1 mark for each question |
| Question Paper format | Test takes will be given two writing tasks and both need to be completed within the stipulated time period |
|---|---|
| Testing Time | 60 minutes |
| Total No. of questions | 2 Questions |
| Type of tasks | Task 1- Test takes must portray some visual information (graph/ chart/ table/diagram) in their own words. They will be asked to write 150 words in approximately 20 minutes.Task 2- Test takes must respond to a point of view or problem or argument. They will be asked to write 250 words in approximately 40 minutes. |
| Answering | Your answers must be written in full on the answer sheet. Test takes are not allowed to use notes or bullet points |
| Question Paper format | Test takers have to complete two writing tasks |
|---|---|
| Testing Time | 60 minutes |
| Total No. of questions | 2 |
| Type of tasks | Task 1- You have to respond to a situation. Maybe you have to write a letter on a particular situation.Task 2- You have to write an essay in response to an argument, point of view or problem |
| Answering | You must writer your answers on answer booklet only. Using notes or bullet points is not allowed |
IELTS 2020 Results
Candidates can check their IELTS results through four modes – online, at the test centre, via SMS or email. The steps to check results are mentioned below.
Online IELTS Results by British Council
Candidates can check their IELTS Results online by following the given steps:
Step 1: Visit the British Council official website @ ielts.britishcouncil.org
Step 2: Select ˜Results’ link
Step 3: Select test date.
Step 6: Enter date of birth, identification document number and candidate number and click on the find button.
Step 7: Your result will be displayed on the screen
Candidate’s can also collect their IELTS results 2020 from their test centre. In order to check their IELTS Test scores at the test centre
- Candidates need to show their ID number or passport used by them during registration of IELTS test
- Candidates will be receiving their candidate number on the test day and are required to ensure that they keep it safe
- Results of IELTS 2020 will not be available over the phone, or by email or fax to candidates who have done the arrangements to pick it up in person from the test centre.
FAQ's for General
An IELTS Test Report Form (TRF) is valid for two (2) years
A candidate may resit the IELTS test at any time
IELTS Test is not recommended for candidates under 16 years. However, if they wish to take the test, they may
IDP IELTS Test Centres India administers tests which are available on 48 fixed dates a year up to four times a month, depending on local demand. Please refer to the National Test Dates for test dates and test cities. Please note that new cities are added on a regular basis.
You can register for the IELTS test in any of the following manner:
On-line via our website. You may pay the test fee using your credit card (MasterCard/VISA), and receive instant confirmation of your reservation. This is the most convenient way to book your IELTS test.
In person at any of our IDP Education India Pvt Ltd offices. You may complete the form on-line or complete a paper application with the assistance from one of our friendly staff members. You may pay the fee by credit card/debit card or demand draft or customized ICICI bank/Allahabad bank deposit slip. You will receive an instant confirmation of your reservation.
By completing an IELTS application form and sending it via courier to the below address where your application will be processed upon receipt and your placement determined subject to availability:
IDP Education India Pvt. Ltd.
Global Gateway Towers, Tower-B, 5th Floor,
Sikanderpur Ghosi,Sector-26, M.G. Road,
Gurugram -122002, Haryana, India
Tel: +91-124-4445999
No. Payment of the test fee by cheque or cash is NOT acceptable. You should never pay cash to anybody towards payment of your IELTS test fee. If you do so, you will do it at your own risk and cost
Withdrawals/Cancellations are permitted on the following grounds:
1) Applicant forwards request in writing, along with their original proof of test payment to the below address:
IDP Education India Pvt. Ltd.
Global Gateway Towers, Tower-B, 5th Floor,
Sikanderpur Ghosi,Sector-26, M.G. Road,
Gurugram -122002, Haryana, India
Tel: +91-124-4445999
2) Request for Transfer of Test Date (IELTS, IELTS for UKVI & IELTS for Life Skills) A request using the œTransfer, Cancellation Application Form for transferring of a test date (i.e. postponement or pre ponement) to another date must reach the centre atleast five (5) weeks prior to the original test date. The allocation of the next test date will be at the sole discretion of the centre and subject to availability.
3) Request for Transfer of Test Date (Computer-delivered IELTS) A request using the ” Transfer, Cancellation Application Form ” for transferring of a test date (i.e. postponement or pre-ponement) to another date must reach the centre atleast three (3) weeks prior to the original test date. The allocation of the next test date will be at the sole discretion of the centre and subject to availability. An administrative charge will be applicable respectively for Computer Delivered IELTS test is INR 3,330 (Three Thousand Three Hundred and Thirty only) (inclusive of all taxes) .
An administrative fee will be applicable respectively for:
Test Type | Fee details | Test Type |
IELTS | INR 3,150 | Computer-delivered IELTS |
IELTS for UKVI | INR 4,625 | IELTS for Life Skills |
4) For more details, please refer to the Transfer/Cancellation Application Form available in œDownloads section. The decision of the test centre will be final and binding on the applicant.
5) All approved refunds will be processed and sent within 30 days of the examination date originally booked for
Test date transfers (postponements and preponements) are permitted on the following grounds:
1) Applicant forwards request in writing, along with their original proof of test payment to the below address:
IDP Education India Pvt. Ltd.
Global Gateway Towers, Tower-B, 5th Floor,
Sikanderpur Ghosi,Sector-26, M.G. Road,
Gurugram -122002, Haryana, India
Tel: +91-124-4445999
2) Only transfer requests that are received more than five weeks before the test date will be considered.
Request for Transfer of Test Dates : An administrative charge of INR 3,000(inclusive of all taxes).
The fee should be deposited in IDP branch (Demand Draft or ICICI cash deposit slip or Credit Card/Debit Card Swipe) or should be couriered to IDP Gurgaon office (Demand Draft or ICICI cash deposit slip). The demand draft should be drawn in favour of œIDP EDUCATION INDIA PRIVATE LIMITED, payable at New Delhi.
3) Transfer requests received within the five week period prior to the test date will not be considered.
4) For more details, please refer to the Transfer/Cancellation Application Form available in œDownloads section. The decision of the test centre will be final and binding on the applicant.
5) Allocation to the requested test date will be at the sole discretion of the test centre
Under normal circumstances, you will be treated as an absentee. However, there are some special circumstances under which your application may be considered with some conditions. Please refer to the Transfer/Cancellation Application Form available in œDownloads section to access the policy guidelines/terms and conditions and form for such special circumstances. However, please be informed that the acceptance of your application is subject to approval by the test centre, whose decision will be final and binding
Candidates may apply for a re-mark (Enquiry on Results). This must be done within six weeks of the test date. The candidate may choose which modules are to be re-marked. Complete the application for and submit/courier the same, along with the fee of INR 9,500/- (Nine Thousand Five Hundred only) (inclusive of all taxes) .
The fee must be paid by Demand Draft drawn in favour of œIDP EDUCATION INDIA PRIVATE LIMITED, payable at New Delhi. The fee will be refunded if the result is changed. A re-mark can take two to four weeks to be processed.
In order for a re-mark (Enquiry on Results) to be processed, the candidate must return their original TRF along with a re-mark (Enquiry on Results) form which is available in œDownloads section on this website. Once the re-mark (Enquiry on Results) has been re-marked, the result is final and no other re-mark (Enquiry on Result) for the same test/s is permitted.
No. IELTS materials are confidential and past papers are not released to candidates under any circumstances
If a candidate has lost or damaged their TRF, we are unable to provide the candidate with another copy.
This form MUST be completed by the Candidate and the FEE MUST be enclosed to enable processing.
Centre may send up to five additional TRF’s to reorganizations. The centre may charge a postal fee for results sent internationally or by courier as follows
Preferred Mod of Dispatch: Ordinary Mail (Fee is Rs. 400 **/- (Inclusive of all taxes) Per college/ University/ Institution)/ courier (Fee is Rs. 1500/- (Inclusive of all taxes) Per College/ University/ Institution) (circle as appropriate)
*Many STED RO’s accepts electronic score only. To Know more Please call 1800 102 4544.
**No Tracking reference number will be provided & IDP will not be responsible for TRF delivery.
#All additional TRF will be processed within 7 to 10 working days from the date of submission
If you are applying for a UK Visa, there is an IELTS test for you.
For visa applications to the UK, you may need to have an English language qualification. In particular, for many categories of visa, you must submit an English language qualification which is included on the UK Home Office’s list of Secure English Language Tests (often referred to as SELT tests). IELTS and IELTS L
To find out whether you need to take an approved test, what level you need to achieve, and which test you can use, you should contact UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). For more information, please visit Guidance on Applying for UK Visa approved English language tests.
Tier 4 Student Visa
Those who are applying for a Tier 4 student visa to a Highly Trusted Sponsor (HTS) to study a bachelor or postgraduate degree are required to meet the English language level set by the institution. All British universities and colleges accept IELTS results. This means you can apply with an IELTS result from any of the 1,000 IELTS test locations worldwide unless your institution has additional requirements. See here for a list of test locations. Official list of British Universities and Colleges with Highly Trusted Sponsor Status
As a guide, you can use the following table:
Visa description | CEFR level required | Skills |
Tier 1 (General) visa | C1 | Reading, Writing Speaking, and Listening |
Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) visa | B1 | Reading, Writing Speaking, and Listening |
Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) visa | B1 | Reading, Writing Speaking, and Listening |
Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur) visa | B1 | Reading, Writing Speaking, and Listening |
Tier 2 (General) visa | B1 | Reading, Writing Speaking, and Listening |
Tier 2 (Sportsperson) visa | A1 | Reading, Writing Speaking, and Listening |
Tier 2 (Minister of Religion) visa | B2 | Reading, Writing Speaking, and Listening |
Tier 4 (General) student visa – below degree level | B1 | Reading, Writing Speaking, and Listening |
Tier 4 (General) student visa – degree level and above (see relevant information above) | B2 | Reading, Writing Speaking, and Listening |
Family of a settled person visa | A1 | Speaking, and Listening |
Indefinite leave to remain (to settle) or citizenship2 | B1 | Speaking, and Listening |
1 IELTS is accepted by UKVI at band scores 4.0 and above, equivalent to CEFR level B1.
2 UKVI will accept a test on the SELT list or an Of qual regulated test for this immigration category. The test must cover Speaking and Listening at B1 level
3 Scores mentioned above for TIER 4 categories are the requirement of UKVI. Universities and colleges may require a higher band score for the course that you are applying for. Please check with them on the band score requirement for your course
Please note that these changes do not affect the use of IELTS by people from the European Union, European Economic Area, Switzerland and ˜majority English speaking countries’ as defined by the UK Home Office. More information on www.gov.uk/english-language .
CIf you wish to use an IELTS or IELTS Life Skills test result as part of your application for UK visa purposes (apart from some types of student visa), you may need to take the test at an IELTS test centre which is specifically authorised by UK Visas and Immigration for this purpose, and the test must be taken under conditions specified by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
You will receive an IELTS or IELTS Life Skills Test Report Form which shows that you have taken your test to meet the UKVI requirements.an I use any IELTS test result for UK visa application?
The tests are available throughout the world, in locations specified by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). These IELTS test centres will be announced here shortly
For IELTS and IELTS Life Skills, test dates will be available within 28 days of booking your test.
There are no restrictions on retaking IELTS. You can register for a test as soon as you feel you are ready to do so.
For IELTS Life Skills candidates ONLY – Candidates who have previously taken the IELTS Life Skills test and have passed are not allowed to re-take the test at the same level within two years. E.g: a candidate who has taken an IELTS Life Skills A1 test and has passed cannot take another Life Skills A1 test within two years. Similarly a candidate who has taken an IELTS Life Skills B1 test and has passed cannot take another Life Skills B1 test within two years
There are no restrictions on retaking IELTS. You can register for a test as soon as you feel you are ready to do so.
The IELTS test for UK visa purposes is designed to meet certain administrative requirements that are only specified by UK Visas and Immigration. Test Report Forms will be slightly different, to show that test takers have taken the test at an IELTS UK visa session.The actual test taken is the same same content, examiners, format, level of difficulty, scoring and so on
Yes. IELTS test results are accepted by more than 9,000 organisations worldwide, including universities, colleges, governments and employers
If you take IELTS on or before 5 April 2015 you may be able to use it for your application up to 5 November 2015. We advise you to confirm this with UKVI before making your application.
From 6 April 2015 you must take the test at an IELTS test centre authorised by UKVI to run IELTS tests for UK visa and immigration purposes and you must confirm at the time of registration that you wish to use your test for these purposes
IELTS Life Skills is a new English Language test offered by the three IELTS Test Partners – British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia and Cambridge English Language Assessment.
IELTS Life Skills is a test of Speaking and Listening, available at CEFR Level A1 and CEFR Level B1. It is designed to meet the requirements of UK Visas and Immigration for certain visa categories and other immigration purposes
We will be announcing dates for registration and testing here shortly.
IELTS Life Skills tests are available throughout the world, in locations specified by UK Visas and Immigration. The IELTS Life Skills test centres will also be announced here shortly.
To find out whether you need to take an approved test, what level you need to achieve, and which test you can use, you should contact UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). For more information, please visit Guidance on Applying for UK Visa approved English language tests
You take the test with another test taker and one Examiner. Your own performance on both speaking and listening will be assessed during this one session
The new test has been designed to meet specific immigration requirements for which applicants only need to demonstrate speaking and listening skills
IELTS Life Skills at CEFR Level A1 takes 16-18 minutes and Level B1 is 22 minutes
No, you will be assessed on your Speaking and Listening skills at the same time.
A certificated IELTS Examiner will assess your performance throughout the Speaking and Listening test based on the following criteria
- obtaining information .
- conveying information.
- speaking to communicate engaging in discussion.
Free test samples will be available here shortly
You will receive one copy of the IELTS Life Skills Test Report Form
Test results are normally available within 7 days of your test
FAQ's for General
Our customers have told us that they would like to understand their results and how they can improve their skills. In response to our customer’s requests, the IELTS partners have developed a new service for IELTS test takers: ˜Your scores explained and advice to improve your score’.
This feature will be available from 1st September 2016. Test takers that have taken the test on or after 4th August 2016 will be able to see this additional feature.
On the 13th day after sitting a test, when test takers log into https://results.ieltsessentials.com to check their results, they will be able to see their provisional results and a table with an explanation of their scores and advice for improvement.
The scores explained will provide information on the performance of test takers along with general advice on how they can improve their skills. Please refer to the Appendix for more information on explanation and advice for each skill. A sample of a Band 7.5 report is also available for your reference
This will be available for 28 days, the same time as the availability of the online results. After this time, it will no longer be available
Yes, they can. However, they need to be aware that this only provides general guidance on their performance
The feedback and advice is available only through Results Online
The feedback and advice is available only through Results Online
This feature is being launched in response to a high volume of customer requests. This is a trial feature in Australia and it is to help shape the content of feedback and advice that will become available globally at a later stage
The content has been developed by the IELTS partners
You can find out more about this new feature by e-mailing IDP IELTS Australia’s Customer Connect team at: ieltscustomerconnect@idp.com
Appendix: IELTS scores explained and advice for test takers
| Band | |
|---|---|
| 9 | User The test taker has fully operational command of the language. Their use of English is appropriate, accurate and fluent, and shows complete understanding. |
| 8.0/8.5 | Very Good User The test taker has fully operational command of the language with only occasional unsystematic inaccuracies and inappropriate usage. They may misunderstand some things in unfamiliar situations. They handle complex and detailed arguments. |
| 7.0/7.5 | Good User The test taker has operational command of the language, though with occasional inaccuracies, inappropriate usage and misunderstandings in some situations. They generally handle complex language well and understand detailed reasoning. |
| 6.0/6.5 | Competent User The test taker has an effective command of the language despite some inaccuracies, inappropriate usage and misunderstandings. They can use and understand fairly complex language, particularly in familiar situations |
| 5.0/5.5 | Modest User The test taker has a partial command of the language and copes with overall meaning in most situations, although they are likely to make many mistakes. They should be able to handle basic communication in their own field |
| 4.0/4.5 | Limited User The test taker’s basic competence is limited to familiar situations. They frequently show problems in understanding and expression. They are not able to use complex language |
| 3.0/3.5 | Extremely Limited User The test taker conveys and understands only general meaning in very familiar situations. There are frequent breakdowns in communication |
| 2 | Intermittent User The test taker has great difficulty understanding spoken and written English |
| 1 | The test taker has no ability to use the language except a few isolated words |
Listening Your Scores Explained
| Band score | |
|---|---|
| 9 | Test takers at Band 9 can typically understand a very wide range of vocabulary, including specialised, technical and academic terminology and idiomatic language. They can identify a speaker’s purpose and attitude and recognise agreement or disagreement between speakers when these are implied as well as when they are more directly stated. They can follow a complex abstract argument and use their understanding of the overall meaning to predict how it might develop. |
| 8.0/8.5 | Test takers at Band 8.0 can typically understand a wide range of vocabulary, including idiomatic language and fixed phrases or unusual collocations, as well as technical and academic language. They can identify words and process the grammatical context automatically, and so are able to concentrate on the development of the overall meaning of what is said by a speaker or speakers, even when this is spoken quickly and includes complex and detailed argumentation. Test takers at Band 8.5 demonstrate these listening skills more strongly. |
| 7.0/7.5 | Test takers at Band 7.0 can typically understand a wide range of vocabulary, including some technical and academic language, even when the language and ideas are complex and the speech is relatively fast. They can identify some ideas, attitudes, opinions or purposes which are implied by the speaker but not directly stated. They can easily understand meaning, including references within and between sentences, without having to process individual words and structures. Test takers at Band 7.5 demonstrate these listening skills more strongly. |
| 6.0/6.5 | Test takers at Band 6.0 can typically understand most vocabulary relating to a range of topics, including some terms typical of academic English. They can recognise facts, attitudes, opinions and purposes when these are directly stated, and identify agreement or disagreement between speakers on both general and academic topics. They can understand meaning without having to process individual words and structures and can remember enough of what they have heard to understand references such as pronouns. Test takers at Band 6.5 demonstrate these listening skills more strongly |
| 5.0/5.5 | Test takers at Band 5.0 can typically understand vocabulary relating to familiar and some less familiar topics. They can understand main ideas and details in factual texts on everyday topics, as well as attitudes, opinions and purposes where these are directly stated, and relationships such as cause and effect. In order to do this, they can keep short sections of the text they have just heard in their short-term memory even when these contain some unfamiliar words. Test takers at Band 5.5 demonstrate these listening skills more strongly. |
| 4.0/4.5 | Test takers at Band 4.0 can typically understand vocabulary on familiar topics. They can process short parts of texts even when these contain some unfamiliar words. However, they have to concentrate hard to understand the words and grammar in a text, which means they may have difficulty understanding its overall meaning. They can use the speaker’s tone of voice (e.g. positive or negative) and their use of stress to help identify the main points. Test takers at Band 4.5 demonstrate these listening skills more strongly |
| 3.5 and below | Test takers at these bands can typically understand some familiar vocabulary, including numbers, times and dates. They can identify important words when these are familiar and are stressed by the speaker, and when the situation is familiar, but they have difficulty recognising words and processing grammar in connected speech. |
Reading ˜How to Improve’ Advice
| Band score | |
|---|---|
| 9 | Not applicable |
| 8.0/8.5 | Read a wide range of complex texts on general and specialised topics from sources such as newspapers, academic publications and special interest magazines. Continue to develop your awareness of how to read different types of texts differently. Limit the amount of time you give yourself to read a text. Search the internet for several opinion-based texts on the same topic so that you can compare different attitudes, views and ideas. Try to capture those differences in short (one-sentence) summaries. |
| 7.0/7.5 | Broaden the range of texts you read. Read texts on general and specialised topics from sources such as newspapers, academic publications and special interest magazines. Continue to develop your awareness of how to read different types of texts differently. Limit the amount of time you give yourself to read a text. Search the internet for several opinion-based texts on the same topic so that you can compare attitudes, views and ideas. Practise distinguishing between the main idea and supporting detail by underlining the key point in each paragraph. |
| 6.0/6.5 | Try to expand your vocabulary by reading a range of general texts and some specialised ones from sources such as academic publications and magazines. Limit the amount of time you give yourself to read a text. Practise using different reading strategies reading quickly and reading carefully. Also practise distinguishing between the main idea and supporting detail by underlining the key point in each paragraph. |
| 5.0/5.5 | Try to increase your vocabulary by reading texts from sources such as newspapers, magazines and academic publications on topics that you are familiar with. Practise reading quickly by giving yourself a specific amount of time to read a text. Also practise identifying important points by underlining them in the text. |
| 4.0/4.5 | Try to learn more English words by reading texts on topics that interest you from sources such as newspapers, magazines and short stories. Try to understand new words in the text, guessing if necessary. Afterwards, look up the words you didn’t know. Practise reading quickly by giving yourself a specific amount of time to read a text. Also practise identifying important points by underlining them in the text. |
| 3.5 and below | Try to learn more English words by reading a lot. Read texts on topics that interest you from sources such as magazines and simplified books. Practise reading quickly by watching the news or video clips with English subtitles. Also try reading quickly to find specific information, e.g. in notices, timetables and menus. |
Reading – Your Scores Explained
| Band score | |
|---|---|
| 9 | Test takers at Band 9 can typically deal with ease with a variety of factual and opinion-based texts that are complex and dense with information. They demonstrate complete understanding of vocabulary, both within and across sentences, on a broad range of general, specialised and technical topics. They use appropriate strategies, including reading at speed and reading carefully. They are highly skilled at understanding attitude, opinion and implication, following an argument, and distinguishing between main ideas and supporting detail. |
| 8.0/8.5 | Test takers at Band 8.0 can typically deal effectively with a variety of factual and opinion-based texts that are often complex and dense with information. They demonstrate thorough understanding of vocabulary, both within and across sentences, on a broad range of general, specialised and technical topics. They are likely to use appropriate strategies, including reading at speed and reading carefully. They are skilled at understanding attitude, opinion and implication, following an argument, and distinguishing between main ideas and supporting detail. Test takers at Band 8.5 demonstrate these reading skills more strongly. |
| 7.0/7.5 | Test takers at Band 7.0 can typically deal with a variety of factual and opinion-based texts that may be complex and dense with information. They demonstrate very good understanding of vocabulary, both within and across sentences, on a range of general and specialised topics. On the whole, they are likely to use appropriate strategies, including reading at speed and reading carefully. They are good at understanding attitude, opinion and implication, and can follow an argument and distinguish between main ideas and supporting detail. Test takers at Band 7.5 demonstrate these reading skills more strongly. |
| 6.0/6.5 | Test takers at Band 6.0 can typically deal with a range of factual and opinion-based texts that may be relatively complex and dense with information. They demonstrate good understanding of vocabulary, both within and across sentences, on a range of general topics and some specialised ones. They may use appropriate strategies, including reading at speed and reading carefully. They are usually efficient at locating key information and understanding main ideas. They can usually understand fairly complex opinions and arguments. Test takers at Band 6.5 demonstrate these reading skills more strongly. |
| 5.0/5.5 | Test takers at Band 5.0 typically deal reasonably well with straightforward factual and opinion-based texts. They are able to understand vocabulary, both within and across sentences, on a broad range of general topics. They may generally use appropriate strategies, including reading at speed and reading carefully. They are mainly efficient at locating key information and understanding main ideas. They understand simply expressed opinions and straightforward arguments. Test takers at Band 5.5 demonstrate these reading skills more strongly |
| 4.0/4.5 | Test takers at Band 4.0 typically have a limited ability to deal with straightforward factual and opinion-based texts. They are able to understand vocabulary, both within and across sentences, on a range of general topics. At times, they may use appropriate strategies, including reading at speed and reading carefully. They can generally locate key information and understand main ideas. They can often understand simply expressed opinions and straightforward arguments. Test takers at Band 4.5 demonstrate these reading skills more strongly. |
| 3.5 and below | Test takers at these bands typically find straightforward factual and opinion-based texts a challenge, as their understanding of vocabulary is limited to familiar topics. They are not likely to use an appropriate strategy such as reading at speed or reading carefully. They often have problems locating key information and understanding simply expressed opinions. |
Writing – Your Scores Explained
| Band score | |
|---|---|
| 9 | Test takers at Band 9 can typically fully address all parts of the questions. Their own point of view and ideas are relevant, fully developed and well supported. The writing is coherent and cohesive without necessarily any obvious linking words. They can skilfully manage paragraphing. They use a wide range of vocabulary in a very natural and sophisticated way, with only rare, minor mistakes. They can use a wide range of sentence types with full flexibility and accuracy. Only rare, minor errors occur in grammar |
| 8.0/8.5 | Test takers at Band 8.0 can typically write a well-developed response to all parts of the question. The key features or bullet points are clearly described and illustrated. Their ideas are relevant, extended and supported. They can sequence their ideas logically, and link them all together well. In Task 2, their paragraphs are adequate and appropriate. They can use a wide range of vocabulary fluently and flexibly to communicate precise meanings. They can skilfully use uncommon words, with only rare mistakes in spelling or word form. They are able to use a wide range of sentence types, and most of these have no mistakes in them. Errors are only very occasional. Test takers at Band 8.5 demonstrate these writing skills more strongly |
| 7.0/7.5 | Test takers at Band 7.0 can typically produce a clear overview of the graph or a clear viewpoint throughout the response. All parts of the task are covered. (GT) The letter has a clear purpose and a consistent, suitable tone. Test takers can support their main ideas with details and examples, although these might be too general and lack focus. The writing is well organised and leads logically to its conclusion. They can use a variety of linking words, with some over- or under-used. In Task 2 every paragraph has one main topic. They can flexibly use a range of vocabulary and use some less common words with some style, despite occasionally choosing the wrong word or making mistakes in spelling or in the form of a word. They are able to use a variety of complex sentences, and many of their sentences are correct. However, they still make a few mistakes with grammar and punctuation. Test takers at Band 7.5 demonstrate these writing skills more strongly |
| 6.0/6.5 | Test takers at Band 6.0 can typically address all parts of the question, some more fully than others. (AC) They can give an overview. (GT) The letter has a generally clear purpose; the tone is sometimes not consistent. Key features and bullet points are covered. The point of view and main ideas are relevant but the conclusion(s) may be unclear. Some details might be irrelevant or wrong. Test takers can arrange their ideas logically, so that the writing has a clear progression from start to finish. They are able to use some linking words well, but others with mistakes. They can paragraph their Task 2 writing, although not always logically. They have enough vocabulary to answer the question. They try to use some less common words. They make some spelling mistakes, but the reader can still understand. They can write a mix of simple and complex sentences. The grammar and punctuation mistakes do not usually cause difficulty for the reader. Test takers at Band 6.5 demonstrate these writing skills more strongly |
| 5.0/5.5 | Test takers at Band 5.0 are typically able to partly answer the question. (AC) There may be too much detail and no overview, or no data. (GT) The purpose of the letter may sometimes be unclear in places, and the tone sometimes not suitable. Test takers can give their own point of view and some main ideas, although these may not lead to any conclusions. They can partly organise their writing, and can use some linking words, although these are wrongly used or over-used in places. The writing might repeat itself and the Task 2 might lack paragraphs. They have just enough vocabulary to answer the question, although spelling mistakes cause some difficulty for the reader. They are able to use some basic sentences correctly, and try some complex sentences, which often contain mistakes. Punctuation is sometimes faulty and the mistakes in grammar cause some difficulty for the reader. Test takers at Band 5.5 demonstrate these writing skills more strongly. |
| 4.0/4.5 | Test takers at Band 4.0 typically try to answer the question but either do not cover all its key features or bullet points, or use an incorrect format; or the writing is not related to the topic. They can present their own view in places, and a few main ideas. (GT) The purpose of the letter is unclear and/or its tone is not suitable. The ideas are not logically arranged and the writing does not lead anywhere. Test takers can use some basic linking words, but typically cannot use paragraphs in Task 2. They can use basic vocabulary but spelling mistakes cause strain for the reader. A few basic sentences are used correctly, but complex sentences are rare, and overall there are many mistakes in grammar. Test takers at Band 4.5 demonstrate these writing skills more strongly |
| 3.5 and below | Test takers at these bands can typically write a few ideas and can use a few linking words and a very limited range of vocabulary. The question might have been misunderstood, or not properly answered. The content may be only slightly related to the topic. Test takers might be relying on copying words from the question, or on memorised language. Spelling and grammar errors make the writing difficult to understand. |
Writing ˜How to Improve’ Advice
| Band score | |
|---|---|
| 9 | Not applicable |
| 8.0/8.5 | When writing your Task 2, think about all aspects of the topic and try to include all angles on it, supported by as many relevant ideas and examples as you can think of. Be careful to paragraph perfectly, including only one main idea in each paragraph. Within your paragraphs, the sentences should be in a logical order and well-linked to each other. As well as practising your writing, don’t forget to read, speak and listen to as much English as possible so that you are exposed to a very wide range of vocabulary and good models of correct, complex grammar. Well-written books, the radio or TV news are all suitable daily sources for this. You should be trying to increase your vocabulary, so every time you write something, why not challenge yourself to use at least one new word for the first time? |
| 7.0/7.5 | Take 5 minutes to make a plan before you write and check that every detail you put into your Task 2 writing is relevant and focused on the actual question being asked, not just on the same broad topic. Are you using enough linking words, but not too many, to ensure a smooth flow between your paragraphs? Try to use a wide range of vocabulary when you write, and eliminate any spelling errors in unusual words. Work on increasing the accuracy of your grammar and punctuation in complex sentences, and revise points which are still difficult for you to get exactly right, such as the use of articles. |
| 6.0/6.5 | With Academic Task 1, focus on getting all the details of the graph correct. For Task 2, try to give equal space to each part of the question. Check that your conclusion follows on logically from the body of your essay, and that it matches what you say in your introduction. At home you can practise brainstorming lots of examples (from your country, or people you know) to support different ideas. Adding examples into your writing will make your argument stronger and more interesting to read. Check the linking words in your writing are you using them correctly? Keep improving the accuracy of your complex sentences and punctuation. |
| 5.0/5.5 | Include an overview of the graph in your Academic Task 1 writing, and always include some of the data from it. Think of a structure for your writing before you begin, and choose a logical sequence for your information or ideas. Every time you write something at school, at work or at home, try to write it in proper paragraphs. Work on increasing the accuracy of your spelling, and practise writing some complex sentences correctly. Make sure that you can finish your essay, so time your writing at home and aim to write 250 words in 40 minutes if you can. |
| 4.0/4.5 | Make sure that you describe all the main points of the graph, and check carefully to make sure that what you are writing is a correct description of it, without mistakes in the numbers or lines. With General Training Task 1 and both kinds of Task 2, make sure that you answer every part of the question. Try to arrange the ideas in your writing in a logical order, and practise using linking words. Work on your spelling, and on writing correct simple sentences |
| 3.5 and below | Take the time to look carefully at the graph or read each question slowly, making sure you understand it fully before you start to write. Check that everything you write is on the topic, with nothing irrelevant. Try to arrange what you write into a logical order. Work hard on your basic spelling and grammar. Do not copy strings of words from the question paper try to use your own words instead. |
Speaking – Your Scores Explained
| Band score | |
|---|---|
| Test takers at this band can typically speak fluently and at a natural speed, with only rare repetition or self-correction. Hesitation is to find ideas, and not to find words or grammar. Speaking is very well organised, ideas are clear and well linked, and topics are fully developed. Test takers at this band use a wide range of natural, accurate and idiomatic vocabulary to discuss all topics. They can use a wide range of accurate grammar structures, with only very rare and natural errors. Pronunciation is natural and clear at all times, and is very easy to understand | |
| Test takers at Band 8.0 can typically speak fluently and at a natural speed, with only occasional repetition or self-correction. Hesitation is usually to find ideas, and not to find words or grammar. Speaking is well organised, ideas are clear and well linked, and topics are well developed. They use a wide range of natural, accurate and idiomatic vocabulary to discuss all topics, although with occasional errors in word choice, and can paraphrase well if needed. They can use a wide range of grammar structures. Most sentences are accurate, with only occasional errors. Pronunciation is generally natural and clear, with only occasional minor problems. They are always easy to understand, and their accent has very little effect on understanding. Test takers at Band 8.5 demonstrate these speaking skills more strongly. | |
| Test takers at Band 7.0 can typically speak with ease, clearly and at length, although with some repetition, self-correction, or hesitation to search for words or grammar. Speaking is generally well organised, and ideas are generally clear and well linked. They use a range of vocabulary to discuss a variety of topics, and can use some less common or idiomatic vocabulary, although not always accurately. They can paraphrase well if needed. They can use a range of grammar structures. Sentences are frequently accurate, although there are some errors. Pronunciation is generally natural and clear, but with occasional problems. Test takers at this band are usually easy to understand, and their accent does not have much effect on understanding. Test takers at Band 7.5 demonstrate these speaking skills more strongly |
