The International English Language Testing System, which is normally referred to as IELTS, is the English language test which is most trusted by British universities, as well as being one of the most recognized exams around the world. The IELTS test comes in two versions: Academic, which is usually taken by students wishing to study abroad, and General Training, which is mostly used for immigration purposes.

Other tests: Many universities also accept alternative tests like TOEFL or Pearson tests however IELTS is generally the preferred test in the UK. If you plan to take any test other than IELTS, please contact your counselor to check it is recognized by the universities you hope to apply for.

The IELTS Academic Test is renowned for accurately assessing an individual’s English language ability. Any foreign student who wishes to apply to a British university is required to prove their English competence through a test such as IELTS.

In total, the test has four sections and takes 2 hours and 45 minutes, divided as follows:

• Listening – 30 minutes
• Reading – 60 minutes
• Writing – 60 minutes
• Speaking – 11–14 minutes