|
In this article you will uncover the top benefits of IELTS and why the IELTS test stands out from other English proficiency tests. |
Are you planning to emigrate to an English-speaking country? Whether it's to study, secure a job, or meet immigration requirements, you'll need to take a reputable English proficiency test - one recognised by schools, universities, employers, and government bodies alike.
IELTS, or International English Language Testing System, is a top pick. This test evaluates your skills in four areas: listening, reading, writing, and speaking for a well-rounded assessment of your English abilities.
There are two main types of IELTS tests: IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training. So, depending on your unique situation and ambition, there’s an option to suit you.
Which IELTS test should I take?
In this article, you’ll read about the benefits of IELTS and how it helps you move one step closer to achieving your goals.
Benefits of IELTS: Four Reasons to take the IELTS test
IELTS stands out due to its global recognition, flexibility, and excellent preparation for life in English-speaking countries.
Let’s take a look at the benefits of IELTS in more detail:
1. IELTS is a widely accepted test in various countries
IELTS is accepted by over 12,500 organisations globally including:
- Immigration authorities and government departments
- Multinational companies and employers
- Educational and academic organisations
- Professional associations like hospitals and accounting bodies.
Your IELTS results open the doors to opportunities in over 140 countries, including the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada.
This gives you a global advantage and more flexibility with your plans, which is especially valuable if you're considering multiple destinations for your future.
You’ll have the freedom to choose the path that best suits your goals and aspirations.
2. IELTS gives you more choices
One of the most important benefits of IELTS is that it offers a wide range of choices to accommodate test takers’ preferences.
Unlike some other English language proficiency tests that can be taken only on paper or on a computer, you can take IELTS any way you prefer.
People who feel more comfortable taking a test on paper and prefer writing over typing may find it more challenging to take a test on a computer. This may add to their test day stress and could affect their performance in the exam. For those people, taking IELTS on paper would be a better choice.
While most of the younger generations are much more familiar with computers and find typing much easier than writing with pencils, they would prefer taking a test on a computer and find it less stressful.
Also, IELTS Academic can now be taken online in many locations. IELTS Online gives test takers the privilege of taking the test from the comfort of their homes or private spaces which makes it more convenient for many.
3. IELTS has One Skill Retake
Universities and employers usually have minimum score requirements for IELTS. Some specify the overall band score they require for specific programmes and jobs, while others set requirements for test sections too (Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking). For example, some university programmes that expect students to write technical academic papers require a minimum band score for the Writing section in specific.
IELTS now allows test takers who take the test on computer to retake only one section of the test, if they need to get a better score, rather than repeating the whole test.
This is a cost-effective and time-saving method to improve IELTS test score that gives test takers a second chance to prove their level in one section of the test without affecting their original scores in the other sections.
You can learn more about One Skill Retake by visiting this page: IELTS One Skill Retake.
4. IELTS prepares you for living in an English-speaking country
IELTS assesses your ability to communicate effectively in both academic and everyday situations. With a highly practical approach, it measures you against rigorous global standards. The test prepares you to communicate with English speakers around the world - another important benefit of IELTS.
By learning about each section of the test and its format, you can immediately realise how comprehensive IELTS is and how it prepares you for studying or working in an English-speaking environment.
- Listening: This section of the test involves listening to four recordings of native English speakers. The recordings include speakers with different accents. Next, you'll have to answer some questions about their arguments, opinions, and main ideas.
- Reading: Here, you’ll have to read three different pieces of text and demonstrate your understanding of the main argument, implied meanings and the writer’s opinions.
- Writing: This section assesses your ability to organise ideas, write appropriate responses to requests, and use a range of vocabulary and grammar structures accurately.
- Speaking: The Speaking section of the test requires you to communicate with a certified Examiner. This test is designed to be as close to a real-life situation as possible. For a strong score, you should be able to speak at length on a given topic, organise your ideas coherently, and communicate your opinions.
So, with a high score, you'll be able to communicate in both written and spoken English and comprehend complex texts wherever you live.
Finally, IELTS not only assesses your language skills but equips you with the tools to improve, adapt, and succeed in your new environment.
Still on the fence about whether this test is right for you? Check out our guide to the five reasons to take the IELTS test for more information.
IELTS: unlocking a world of possibilities
Whether you’re pursuing higher education, professional opportunities, or immigration to a new country, the right English proficiency test is your pathway to success.
For more information on all the benefits of IELTS, check out our Ultimate Guide to English Proficiency Tests.
The British Council also offers IELTS Ready, which is a free resource with a wide range of IELTS preparation materials. So, what are you waiting for? Invest in your future today.