IELTS is the International English Language Testing System, the world's proven English language test.
IELTS was one of the pioneers of four skills English language testing over 25 years ago, and continues to set the standard for English language testing today.
IELTS is accepted as evidence of English language proficiency by over 9,000 organisations worldwide. Last year, more than 2.5 million tests were taken globally. IELTS is recognised as a secure, valid and reliable indicator of true to life ability to communicate in English for education, immigration and professional accreditation.
IELTS is accepted as evidence of English language proficiency for work and migration in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK, as well as in the USA.
Each country sets its own IELTS requirements. For upto date information, please visit the relevant government websites.
Australia
IELTS is accepted for many visa categories, as well as for permanent residency in Australia. It is also a requirement for some Australian professional organisations and accrediting bodies.
Canada
Applicants keen to apply to Canada will be required to present evidence of English language proficiency. IELTS is the only internationally available English proficiency test accepted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for immigration to Canada.
New Zealand
The New Zealand government asks for IELTS as evidence of English language proficiency for many visas, including those within the Skilled Migrant, Investor and Entrepreneur, Residence from Work and Parent categories.
UK
Evidence of English language ability is a requirement for those applying to settle permanently in the UK (also known as applying for 'leave to remain' or 'long residence').
IELTS is jointly owned by British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia and Cambridge English Language Assessment through more than 1,100 test centres and locations in over 140 countries.
British Council
British Council connects people worldwide with the learning opportunities and creative ideas from the UK and builds lasting relationships between the UK and other countries. British Council is the UK's international organisation for educational opportunity and cultural relations and is represented in 107 countries worldwide.
IDP: IELTS Australia
IELTS Australia Pty Ltd is a wholly owned subsidiary of IDP Education Ltd, one of the world's leading international education organisations offering student placement in Australia, the USA, Canada, New Zealand and the UK. IDP Education has 45 years' experience in international higher education. IELTS Australia Pty Ltd manages a network of more than 100 IELTS test centres in over 45 countries.
Cambridge English Language Assessment
Cambridge English Language Assessment is the world's leading provider of exams for learners of English. Cambridge exams are recognised by over 13,500 organisations worldwide and taken by over 4 million people each year in 135 countries.
IELTS FAQs
We understand you may have some queries, so here we are, with answers to some of the most frequently asked questions. Hope these help!
Who conducts the IELTS test?
The test is conducted by British Council and IDP.
Is there a difference between British Council and IDP?
No a test can be taken from either body.
How often does the test take place?
The test takes place twice every month.
Can any professional take the test?
A valid passport is required to book the test.
When should I book the test?
ISA clients are advised to book the test date in discussion with our team.
What is the cost of the test?
The test cost is in the region of Rs 12,000. For the exact cost, please check websites of British Council and IDP.
What is the order in which the test sections need to be taken?
The Listening, Reading and Writing test happen on the main test day. The speaking test can happen 1-3 days before or after the main test date. On the main test date the first section to be taken is listening, followed by Reading and finally Writing. The test usually starts at 1 pm and test takers are advised to reach the venue at 11.30 am. Exact timings would be there in an email sent to all test takers.
How long are the test sections?
The Listening test is 40 minutes. The Reading and Writing test is 1 hour each. The speaking test is 15 minutes.
My test date is approaching but I don’t have my speaking date?
Speaking date is made available only 1 week before the main test date.
What should I carry to the test center?
Do carry your passport and stationary.
Can the test be postponed?
In certain cases, postponement is possible. Please check website of British Council or IDP to get details about the procedure.
Can I get my test scores rechecked?
Yes but it comes at a cost. Please check with our team in case you want to get your test scores rechecked.
Can I take the test multiple times?
Yes the test can be taken multiple times.