You can choose from two types of IELTS test: Academic or General Training, depending on whether you want to work, study or migrate. The Academic test is for those who wish to study for an undergraduate or post-graduate degree course through English. The General Training test is for those who are planning to join a training or work experience programme in an English-speaking environment. It is also suitable for those wishing to emigrate to Australia, Canada and New Zealand. If you are not sure which test you should take or what score you require, you can search here for institution requirements.
Both the Academic and General Training tests have four parts: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking.
You can now choose to do the IELTS test on either paper or computer.
Test Dates
Computer-delivered IELTS
The computer-delivered test requires test takers to sit the Listening, Reading and Writing sections in front of a computer with the questions presented on the screen in our IELTS test centre. The test takers then submit their answers using a keyboard and a mouse. The Speaking section is not on computer and is carried out face-to-face with a trained IELTS examiner.
With computer-delivered IELTS there are more test dates available and test takers can choose a time convenient for them. Results are available online (subject to approval by the IELTS Test Partners) 5 to 7 days after the test.
Paper-based IELTS
The test taker writes their answers for the Listening, Reading and Writing on a paper answer sheet, using a pen or pencil. The Speaking section is carried out face-to-face with a trained IELTS examiner.
The written part of the test (Listening, Reading and Writing) takes place in the morning between 10:00 and 13:00. The Speaking part of the test can take place in the afternoon or on another day before or after the main test date.
Test takers will be able to see the available dates and times when they make their booking.
Results for paper-based IELTS are available online (subject to approval by the IELTS Test Partners) 13 days after the test.
The Test Report Form, content, timing and structure of the test is the same whether you take the test on paper or on computer. The Speaking part of the test can take place any time within seven days before or after the written part of the test.
Registration for the paper-delivered IELTS test is between 08:30 and 09:30. If you arrive later than 09:30 you will not be allowed into the test.
For further information, please visit the TAKE IELTS website, which contains lots of useful information and advice on the test.
IELTS for UKVI and IELTS Life Skills
Those applying for a UK visa may need to take an IELTS for UKVI or IELTS Life Skills exam. IELTS for UKVI is a UK government-approved Secure English Language Test (SELT), as is the new test, IELTS Life Skills.
An IELTS for UKVI score can be used to prove your English language abilities in support of a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) application.
An IELTS Life Skills score can be used to prove your English Listening and Speaking abilities in support of an application for a UK family visa or settlement.
If you are not making a direct application for a UK visa, you do not need to take IELTS for UKVI at a government-approved location.
For further information on IELTS for UKVI and IELTS Life Skills tests, please click here.