IELTS (Int'l English Language Testing System)

What is IELTS?

IELTS means International English Language Testing System. It is a paper-based examination administered by the three authorized agencies: Cambridge ESOL, Examinations, IDP(Australia), an the British Council evaluated a non-native speaking proficiency in English language.

Whish institutions ask for the IELTS scores?

Many collages and university in Britain, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand ask for IELTS test scores during admission process. Of late, the US has also started accepting IELTS scores.

What is the required score in IELTs?

An acceptable core is specific to particular institution of agency involved. However, a score of 5.5 and above for non-US and 3.6 and above for American institutions are generally required.

How are the scopes distributed and calculated?

Each of these sections is scoped on a bend scale of 0-9, all the score are summed up; and then average score is calculated. The average score obtained accurately shows a test taker's overall command of English language.

When the tasted are administered?

In Nepal, IELTS tests are conducted by the British Council and IDP (Australia) on fixed dates.

What should candidate consider before taking the test date?

Test taker should keep in mind the gap between the time when the IELTS test result is made and the deadline for admissions into the sought institutions.

What are the areas measured in IELTS tests?

A non-native speaker of English is tested for the language proficiency is reading, listening, speaking and writing. The test formats is as follows.


Sections Numbers of passages/parts Total no. of questions Answering time
Reading 3 40 60 minutes
Listening 4 40 30 minutes
Speaking 3 Not predictable expect in Task 2 11-14 minutes
Writing 2 2 60 minutes