30
Jun
2009
IELTS
IELTS- International English Language Testing System
The International English Language Testing System is a test to prove your English language skills across reading, writing, listening and speaking components. It comes in two versions- the Academic version and the General Training version. The Academic test is for entry into tertiary study at English-speaking colleges and universities. The General Training test is a more basic test for both study or day-to-day English speaking, including attending an English-speaking secondary school, work experience, training programs, or if you simply want to move to an English-speaking country.
The IELTS is useful as English is the third most spoken language in the world, and covers countries such as Australia, USA, New Zealand, South Africa, Singapore, Canada, India, and the UK.
Information for sitting the IELTS
The IELTS is recognised by over 6000 institutions across 120 countries as a trusted and valid indicator of the ability to communicate and comprehend English orally and in written form. To sit the IELTS you should first find out which version of the test you need to take (depending on the requirements of the institution you are applying to) - whether the Academic or the General Training. You should also familiarise yourself with the test components: 30 minutes Listening, 60 minutes Reading, 60 minutes Writing and 14 minutes speaking. It is important to note that the speaking component can be on the same day, or alternatively 7 days before or after the other test components. There are sample tests available to inform yourself of the format and types of questions, as well as to practice your answers.
The fees for both the Academic and the General Training tests are the same. You must bring identification on the testing day, such as a passport or identity card (depending on which you used in your application). The test uses a variety of English accents so no one is disadvantaged- this could include an American, Australian or British accent.