British Council · IDP · Cambridge · English proficiency

IELTS

International English Language Testing System

The most widely accepted English test for study, work and migration, used across the UK, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Ireland and thousands of institutions worldwide.

Who needs it

International students applying to English-taught programs, especially in the UK, Australia, Canada, NZ and Ireland.

Format

Academic version for university entry. Paper- or computer-delivered; Speaking is a face-to-face interview with an examiner.

Duration

About 2 hours 45 minutes across the four sections.

Scoring

Band scale 0–9 in 0.5 increments. Universities often ask for an overall 6.0–7.0 with no band below a set minimum.

Validity

Scores are typically valid for 2 years.

Cost

Roughly US$215–310, varies by country and test centre. Varies by country — confirm officially.

Where it's accepted

Accepted almost everywhere English proficiency is required; the default in the UK, Australia, Canada, NZ and Ireland.

Sections assessed

ListeningReadingWritingSpeaking

Preparation tips

Practise Writing Task 2 under timed conditions — it is where many candidates lose the most marks.
Record yourself answering Speaking prompts to hear filler words and hesitation.
Learn the exact band descriptors so you know what examiners reward.

Free official practice

Official free practice (ielts.org) Sample questions for all four sections. British Council — free materials Free practice tests.

Links go to the official test provider. Degree Globe is not affiliated with any provider and earns nothing from these links.

Other english proficiency tests

TOEFL iBT PTE Academic Duolingo English Test Cambridge English (C1/C2) All tests