Truths About The IELTS Test
Test truths about the IELTS Test
Facts you should know about the test, but probably do not!
The IELTS test is unlike any other English test in the world.
It’s true! The IELTS test is the only English test of its kind. It is primarily a test of English for academic study but also includes a General Training examination option for candidates whose English requirements are at diploma level. This includes English for immigration purposes.
The IELTS test is extremely accurate.
Each new version of the IELTS test is put through an exhaustive and carefully analysed trialling process. In fact, you may be asked to help with the trial of a new test 30 minutes before your actual test begins.
If I wish, I can choose to take a computerized version of the IELTS test.
Versions of the IELTS Listening, Reading and Writing Subtests are available in a computerized format (CB IELTS) at certain centers. Candidates choosing CB IELTS still have the option of performing the Writing Sub-test on paper if they wish, instead of using the keyboard and screen
I can write on all the Question Papers.
Yes, you can. However, you cannot take the Question Papers from the Testing Room, and the examiners will only look at your Answer Sheets.
Unlike some English language tests, the IELTS test is made up of a number of different question types.
Yes, the question types are varied, and this means you should have adequate practice in all the types of question before you take the test. We also recommend advance planning, with two attempts at the actual test if possible – the first time as a “trial”, and the second time for “real”.
The IELTS Listening Test is designed to increase in difficulty as it continues, and each section is heard once only.
It is true that both the Listening and Reading Sub-tests become more difficult as they progress, and, yes, the Listening Test tape is heard only once. The test is given in stages, and you have time to read the next set of questions before you the tape continues. One minute is given at the end of a section to recall what you have heard
There are two writing tasks, and I must complete both to score well in the Writing Sub-test.
Yes, you must complete both writing tasks to get a good writing Band Score. Since running out of time is usually a problem for candidates, it is vital that, when practicing, you gradually decrease the extra amount of time you allow yourself to finish until eventually, you can complete both tasks in the given time of one hour.
The questions asked in the IELTS Speaking Test are determined in advance by the test authorities.
The majority of questions you will be asked come from a large bank of questions prepared beforehand by the IELTS test authorities. This standardization of spoken questions means all candidates receive a fair speaking assessment.
The results of the IELTS test are made available soon after the test is taken.
True. Unlike some other tests, the official results are issued to all candidates two weeks from the test date. Unfortunately, the results cannot be made available sooner.
Even if I get a satisfactory Overall Band Score, I may not be accepted into the course I wish to take.
The IELTS test results can be used for a number of purposes, but the examination itself does not determine your successful acceptance into a particular course. Your intended course may require a minimum Band Score in a particular Sub-test in addition to a satisfactory Overall Band Score.
