The IELTS exam is a test of English ability. Perfect for anyone wishing to do further study or work in an English-speaking country. It is available in two formats: Academic and General. Students who want to study in an English-speaking university need to take the Academic test. Other applicants who need IELTS scores for a work visa or immigration purposes need to take the General IELTS test.
It is the most popular English test in the world. The test is accepted and trusted worldwide as a measure of English language ability. The practice for IELTS is a multi-level test but in reality it is best suited for levels intermediate and above. Students receive a certificate with their band score upon completion of the test. The certificate remains valid for two years.
There are two versions of the exam
General Training IELTS
General Training IELTS can be used for work and residential visas (depending on the individual requirements of the country in question). The exam consists of four tests: reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
Unlike the Cambridge main suite of exams, there is no ‘Use of English’ grammar/vocabulary-based test. Students’ command of English grammar and vocabulary is assessed solely through their use of it in communication. (please note that for UK Citizenship applications only IELTS for UKVI is accepted).
Academic IELTS
Academic IELTS is now the standard test for university acceptance in English speaking institutions. The average score for university entrance is 6.5, although the score needed depends on the institution, so the grade needed could be higher or lower. There are four parts to the test: reading, writing, speaking and listening.
The reading and writing tests are based on more academic material than the general training equivalents.We partner for the exam with University College Dublin. Please see below for the current available dates. Erin School of English includes exam preparation in your General English courses.
