IELTS Introduction Notes

Introduction to IELTS

What IELTS Stands For

IELTS stands for International English Language Testing System. This test is a proficiency test for non-native English speakers, assessing their English language skills.

Proficiency and Non-Native Speakers

Proficiency refers to how good someone is at English including grammar, writing, speaking and reading. Non-native speakers are individuals living in countries where English is not the primary language.

Examples of Native English-Speaking Countries

Countries like Canada, Australia, the US, and New Zealand are considered native English-speaking countries.

Countries Where IELTS is Required

For individuals from countries like India, China, and many Asian, African, South American, and European nations, taking the IELTS test is often necessary to demonstrate English proficiency for study or work in English-speaking countries.

Origin of the IELTS Test

The IELTS test was created by Cambridge University. Because of this, approximately 80% of the English used in IELTS has a British accent. It is recommended to watch British movies to get familiar with this accent.

IELTS Test Categories

There are three important categories to consider when dealing with the IELTS test. These are:

IDP and British Council

Cambridge University entrusts IDP and the British Council to conduct the IELTS test in various countries. Both are the same, despite misconceptions. People tend to blame the organization if they don't score well, rather than examining their own performance.

General Training vs. Academic

  • General Training: For work, immigration, or non-study-related purposes.

  • Academic: For studying, such as graduation, post-graduation, or PhD programs.

Choosing the wrong test will invalidate your score.

Paper vs. Online

  • Paper: Traditional paper and pencil test.

  • Online: Computer-based test.

It is recommended to take the paper-based test because we are more habitual with writing on paper, as studying online may decrease speed by 30%.

IELTS Scoring System

IELTS uses a band scoring system, ranging from 1 to 9, where 9 is the highest and 1 is the lowest. Zero indicates that the candidate did not appear for the exam. The required score depends on the specific requirements of institutions or organizations. Achieving high scores, such as 8 or 9, is generally excellent.

Modularized Score

Both a modularized score and an overall score are required. For instance, an organization might require a minimum of 8 bands overall, with no less than 7 in each module (listening, reading, writing, and speaking). Failing to meet the minimum score in any module may require retaking the exam.

Bands and CEFR

  • Bands: IELTS scoring system (1-9).

  • CEFR: Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.

CEFR levels include A1, A2 (basic), B1, B2 (intermediate), and C1, C2 (advanced). IELTS band scores correspond to these CEFR levels; for example, a score of 8.5-9 corresponds to C2.

Scoring in Listening and Reading

Both listening and reading modules have 40 questions. One point is awarded for each correct answer. Getting 40 out of 40 results in 9 bands. Getting 39 out of 40 in reading results in 8.5 bands, but in listening, it still results in 9 bands.

Scoring in Writing and Speaking

Writing and speaking are scored based on four criteria. The singular of criteria is criterion.

Examples of Scoring Criteria

  • Writing: Vocabulary or lexical resource.

  • Speaking: Fluency.

Multiple examiners assess the performance and provide a score based on these criteria.

Recommended Books

Avoid online materials as they may not align with the actual exam.

  • Official Cambridge Guide to IELTS: The best book with everything you need.

  • Cambridge Practice Test for IELTS Series: Practice tests ranging from 9 to 14 (14 being the latest).

Frequency of the Test

  • Academic: Conducted 48 times a year which results in approximately four times a month.

  • General Training: Conducted 24 times a year which results in approximately two times a month.

Number of Attempts

There is no limit to the number of times you can take the IELTS test. But it's recommended not to retake the exam immediately after receiving a score. Evaluate the areas that need improvement before retaking the test.

IELTS Modules

Listening

In the listening module. you will hear an audio for around 30 minutes. There are 40 questions based on the audio. The British accent in the audio can be challenging.

Reading

The reading module involves reading passages and answering 40 questions based on the content. It's important to find answers from the passages.

Writing

The writing module consists of two tasks:

  • Task 1:

    • Academic: Writing a report.

    • General Training: Writing a letter.

  • Task 2: Writing an essay (common for both Academic and General Training).

The total time for writing is 60 minutes.

Speaking

The speaking module is a formal interview lasting 11-14 minutes. It is usually conducted on a different day, plus or minus five days from the other modules, and is a single interview between you and an IELTS examiner.

Total time for all test is 2 hours and 45 minutes.

Result Declaration

The test results are declared online after 13 days. A hard copy is sent by post but takes around 30 days.

Passport Requirement

A passport is mandatory for IELTS registration. Without a passport, you cannot take the test because the test is designed to see if you are able to communicate in English to go and live abroad. It's advisable to get your passport ready well in advance to avoid last-minute issues.