IELTS Test Information

Format:

Candidates are tested in Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking.
The test has different sections:

Section Description Duration

Listening Section 30 minutes
Academic Reading/
General Training Reading Section 60 minutes
Academic Writing/
General Training Writing Section 60 minutes
Speaking Section 11 - 14 minutes
Total 2 Hours 45 minutes

The Listening Section - Duration : 30 minutes
Academic reading/general training reading section - Duration : 60 minutes
Academic writing/general training writing section - Duration : 60 minutes
Speaking Section : Duration : 11 - 14 minutes

Total test time : 2 hours and 45 minutes

You will receive a separate Band Score. The four Band Scores, one for each section are added together and averaged for an Overall Band Score. Each Band has a statement giving a summary of the English at that level. There are nine Band levels, from one (non-user) to nine (expert user).

The minimum score accepted for a course ranges from 5.0 to 7.5, depending upon courses and institutes you are applying to. The most common requirement is a band score of 6 to 6.5.

Test Reports have a validity of two years.

You can retake the test if you do not achieve the desired score but not before three months of the first test date.