What is IELTS?
IELTS, the International English Language Testing Service, is a globally recognized and trusted international standardized English language proficiency test for non-native English speakers. Established in 1989, it is jointly managed by the prestigious institutions of the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge English.
You can also book the IELTS exam on paper or online on a designated campus. It has a very different numbering/grading system; it gives you bands, and there are 9.0 bands. 6-8 bands are generally considered reasonable and can provide several universities or colleges to which you can apply.
The IELTS test is of three types;
- IELTS Academic
- IELTS UKVI
- IELTS General Training
Now, take a look at each of these types separately;
1. IELTS Academic.
This type of test is for those who are moving abroad to study. Many countries accept IELTS, but it mainly depends on the university you are applying for and the bands you secured in your test.
2. IELTS UKVI.
This type of test is for those applying for immigration to the UK.
3. IELTS General Training.
This type of test is for those who are moving out for employment.
The IELTS exam consists of 4 modules;
- Listening
- Reading
- Writing
- Speaking
Now, take a look at each of these modules;
In the listening module, candidates are required to answer 40 questions within 30 minutes, with an additional 10 minutes allotted for transferring answers for paper-based exams. This section involves listening to recorded conversations and responding to questions from examiners, which include fill-in-the-blank and multiple-choice questions. It is considered one of the less challenging modules in the exam.
The reading module requires candidates to answer 40 questions within 60 minutes, based on three passages, each followed by comprehension questions. The questions include multiple-choice, fill-in-the-blanks, true-and-false, and given-and-not-given questions. This section is known for its higher difficulty level due to the intricate nature of some questions.
In the writing module, candidates are tasked with two assignments. The first requires illustrating or defining a figure, while the second involves writing a 250-word essay. This module presents a high level of difficulty as it assesses various writing skills within a strict 60-minute timeframe, necessitating proficient time management.
The Speaking module has three parts. In the first part, you will be asked to answer general questions about yourself and a range of familiar topics, such as your home, family, work, studies, and interests. This part lasts four to five minutes. In the second part, you will be given a card asking you to discuss a particular topic. You will have one minute to prepare before speaking for up to two minutes. To complete this part of the test, the examiner asks you one or two questions on the same topic. In the third part, you will be asked further questions about the topic from part two. These questions allow you to discuss more abstract issues and ideas. This part lasts between four to five minutes.
If you opt for a paper-based test, the results will be delivered to your address 13 days after the test. If you choose an online test, you can expect the results in 3 to 5 days.
Some tips on how to score good bands.
- Practice past papers as much as you can before your exam.
- Pay more attention to those modules in which you can be more fluent.
- Practice at least one test from the IELTS book. PDF versions of IELTS Cambridge books are readily available on the Internet.
- To be more smooth in the speaking module, try to speak English in your daily life.
What is the fee for the IELTS exam, and how can I book an IELTS test?
The examination fee is variable and depends on the location where you intend to take the test. Therefore, verifying the fee structure from the testing platform before booking the test is necessary. In Pakistan, you can book for IELTS through IDP, British Council or AEO.
Links to all of these three are given below:
https://ielts.idp.com/pakistan/test-dates
https://aeo.com.pk/booking-online
