IELTS, the International English Language Testing System, is designed to assess the language ability of candidates who need to study or work where English is the language of communication.

IELTS is jointly managed by the University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations (Cambridge ESOL), British Council and IDP: IELTS Australia. IELTS conforms to the highest international standards of language assessment.

IELTS is recognised by universities and employers in many countries, including Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK and the USA. It is also recognised by professional bodies, immigration authorities and other government agencies.

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is an English language proficiency exam which measures the ability of non-native English speaking test-takers to communicate in the four basic language skills i.e. listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Essentially, it is taken by people who wish to live, work and study in a native English speaking country.

The IELTS is managed by three main institutions: the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia and the University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations (Cambridge ESOL), for what is essentially an examination for British and not American English.

The IELTS differs from the TOEFL IBT, and many students who are prepared for the latter face unexpected difficulties scoring well on the former. This is why thorough preparation, at a language school or through self-study, is recommended for success in this exam.

 
Versions of IELTS

There are two different versions of the IELTS and it is important to know which version of IELTS you should attempt:

Academic IELTS:

This version is generally used to determine whether candidates are qualified to enroll in undergraduate and graduate academic programs where English is the medium of instruction. It is considered to be more difficult that the general IELTS.

General IELTS:

It focuses on basic survival skills in social and educational contexts. It is generally requested for candidates applying for immigration, working in certain professions, or studying at a non-degree level. It is also valid for immigration to Australia, Canada and New Zealand.