The “International English Language Testing System” (IELTS®) stands for “International English Language Testing System.” It is a multi-part standardized test that aims to assess an examiner’s English language proficiency in a comprehensive manner. The British Council, Cambridge ESOL, and IDP: IELTS Australia developed the test in 1989 as co-owners. Many companies all over the world require foreign applicants to take the IELTS® test before they can be hired.
There are two versions of the test: one for academics and another for general trading. People who want to pursue a college education in a foreign university, particularly in English-speaking countries, usually choose the Academic version. Those looking for job opportunities, training courses, or high school education abroad can take the General Trading version of the test. Individuals and families who are migrating should also take this type of test. Both versions of the IELTS® have the same Speaking and Listening test components, but the Reading and Writing sections are different.
Because the tests are held 20 times or more per year, applicants who register can choose their exam date at their leisure. The IELTS® test is divided into four sections, each of which has a time limit. Listening takes about 30 minutes, Reading and Writing take an hour each, and speaking takes between 11 and 14 minutes. The first three parts of the test are completed in one session, while the Speaking section is completed seven days later, depending on the test center. The entire test lasts two hours and 45 minutes in total.
To ensure accurate results, all tests are run through a computerized scanner. A nine-band scoring system is used to analyze and grade the results. The four parts of the test are each scored separately, with numbers ranging from one to nine. Because the test is only used to assess English proficiency, it cannot be used to determine whether an applicant has passed or failed. To qualify an examiner as a “passer,” the company or organization must set its own standards and minimum grade requirement.
Applicants who are unhappy with their test results have an unlimited number of chances to retake the IELTS® test. However, there is a 90-day waiting period before taking the test again. Official IELTS® Practice Materials, which include test samples and additional tips on how to take the test effectively, are also available for those who want to study and prepare ahead of time.