The IELTS test is a test of a candidate's (student or professional) knowledge and competence in the English language. It was established in 1989 and is administered principally and collectively by UCLES, the British Council and the IDP Education Australia. Today, several countries such as Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Germany, Belgium, New Zealand and Switzerland recognise the professional value of this examination. Every year millions of people register for IELTS.
Discover the benefits of taking the IELTS test
In practice, IELTS has become an international benchmark for assessing academic and professional ability in English. The test in question is an official, world-wide test administered by an official British Council centre for academic and professional purposes. This centre is made up of government agencies, university centres and thousands of employers. The assessment is highly supervised by global language experts, and can be customised to suit the candidate's needs in terms of English language use. In practice, it assesses your level of English in reading, writing, listening and speaking. The value of the exam is recognised by most countries in Europe, and also on other continents. Taking the IELTS Academic test allows candidates to continue their academic career in English-speaking countries and universities. The general IELTS test, on the other hand, is often used for professional purposes (such as working and living abroad, complying with immigration requirements...). On the academic side, it is highly sought after by English-speaking and allied universities offering scholarships or internships. Moreover, having this kind of qualification makes it easier to immigrate to English-speaking countries to continue your higher education. Professionally, it facilitates access to positions in foreign countries, or to work that requires a command of the British English language. The IELTS certificate awarded by the British Council is an important asset. It is recognised by most professional organisations around the world. Once you feel you are able to take the test, you should register with approved centres or have your IELTS approved.
Tips for registering for the IELTS test
To take the IELTS test, you should book online at an official centre (in Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Nantes, Toulouse...) before taking the paper, computer and UKVI tests. Afterwards, you should present a scanned copy of your identity document: identity card or passport, or a written parental or legal guardian authorisation for candidates between 16 years old and 18 years old. You should also upload all relevant information (related to the form of the test, the type of questions and the result) dedicated to the candidates. Download your centre's bank references before you pay the cost of your test via bank transfer or online. And send by email as an attached file all the registration documents together with the receipt of payment. Finally, you should think about confirming your test date which will be notified to you by email for the place and time.
How do I prepare for the IELTS test?
Passing the IELTS test, properly and calmly, requires some personal effort on the part of the subscriber to be ready to take the test. To do this, you need to keep your stress under control. This implies being punctual during the test, the centre will send you an email specifying the time (date: days and times) and place to take the test. The same applies to the instructions and internal rules to be respected to avoid being liable to sanctions: as in the case of a delay or absence during the unjustified test, the possibility of taking water... You should also expect 4 different types of IELTS tests which depend on your objective. Don't hesitate to do exercises, intensive courses, mock tests, online tests, annals, private lessons, books... based on the subjects already covered before, while respecting the timing for each phase. Finally, before booking your test, you must identify the test you are interested in at the official centre to which you are applying. However, each organisation is expected to provide you with information explaining how your test day will go.
How is the IELTS test day organised?
In general, the IELTS test can be taken in either academic or general mode. The majority of universities opt for Academic IELTS. And the test is taken for a set period of time and is written on paper. Although the 2 versions of IELTS differ in the reading and writing phase, they must pass the 4 compulsory steps. Such as Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. The proposed test consists of: a paper-based test for IELTS Academic and General Training, a computer-based test for IELTS Academic and General Training, an IELTS test for UKVI (Academic and General Training) and an IELTS Life Skills test (A1 and B1). These tests must be completed on average in about 50 minutes each and simultaneously. There are two versions: the digital version and the physical version. The results are spread over a 9-level rubric relating to that of the Common European Framework of Reference, from A2 to C2. These results show the general and specific competences by ability. Universities specify the required score. However, it is suggested to opt for IELTS preparation to expect better scores.