What is IELTS in 2 minutes?
Intro:
Intro:
International English Language Testing System, IELTS, is currently one of the most well-known English proficiency tests. It is managed by three organizations: the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge English. IELTS can help you start a new journey—whether you're planning to live, study, or work abroad.
Types:
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General:
If you are planning to work abroad, this version of the test can demonstrate your English level to employers. It’s also useful when applying for permanent residency in some countries.
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Academic:
IF you are interested in studying overseas, this test is usually required for admission by universities and other educational institutions.
If you are planning to work abroad, this version of the test can demonstrate your English level to employers. It’s also useful when applying for permanent residency in some countries.
IF you are interested in studying overseas, this test is usually required for admission by universities and other educational institutions.
Format:
IELTS evaluates your skills in four areas: listening, reading, writing, and speaking.
| Section | Time Length (mins) | Tasks |
|---|---|---|
| Listening | 30 | 4 recordings/40 questions |
| Reading | 60 | 3 Sections/40 questions |
| Writing | 60 | 2 tasks: one descriptive, one essay |
| Speaking | 15 |
|
Compared to Other Popular English Tests:
Test
Duration
Formats
Speaking format
Validity (Years)
Scoring
Origin
IELTS
2h 45m
Online/Computer/paper
Face-to-face
2
0-9
UK-based
TOFL
Just under 2 hours
Online
Recorded
2
0-120
US-based
PTE
2 hours
Computer based
AI-assessed
2
10-90
UK-based
Duolingo
About 1 hour
Adaptive Computer-based
Recorded/AI-Assessed
2
10-160
US-based
| Test | Duration | Formats | Speaking format | Validity (Years) | Scoring | Origin |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IELTS | 2h 45m | Online/Computer/paper | Face-to-face | 2 | 0-9 | UK-based |
| TOFL | Just under 2 hours | Online | Recorded | 2 | 0-120 | US-based |
| PTE | 2 hours | Computer based | AI-assessed | 2 | 10-90 | UK-based |
| Duolingo | About 1 hour | Adaptive Computer-based | Recorded/AI-Assessed | 2 | 10-160 | US-based |
Conclusion:
If you need to take an English exam to achieve your goals, IELTS is a strong option—especially if you prefer features like a face-to-face speaking exam, the choice of a paper-based test, or you're comfortable with the British accent used in the listening section.
With a solid plan, determination, and consistent practice, passing any English language exam is a realistic and achievable goal. When it comes to the IELTS exam, it's not only about your level of English, but also about learning techniques to manage your limited time and answer questions effectively to achieve higher band scores. This comes with plenty of practice. Want to see how ready you are? Try our free mock tests and track your improvement every step of the way.
