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The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is the world’s most popular English proficiency test. IELTS offers two main tests: the IELTS Academic test and the IELTS General Training test.
The IELTS Academic test is the international gold standard for measuring English language ability in academic contexts, such as universities or colleges. If you want to apply to an undergraduate or postgraduate degree in an English-speaking environment, you’ll likely have to succeed on the IELTS Academic test.
Understanding how the IELTS Academic test works is a key first step in your journey to studying overseas. Here, we provide an overview of the test, starting with the important question — how does IELTS compare with other English proficiency tests?
For a summarised PDF of this article, get your copy of the Guide to the IELTS Academic Test
The IELTS Academic Test vs. Alternatives
Did you know that over 4 million people take IELTS every year? Though IELTS is a leading name in testing, there are a few other noteworthy alternatives you might consider. These include:
- TOEFL - Operated by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), TOEFL leans towards American English and mainly provides computer-based testing, though paper-based testing is accessible in limited areas. IELTS, on the other hand, accepts both US and UK forms of English and includes conversation with an examiner who will help the test taker achieve their highest-possible score.
- PTE Academic - Managed by Pearson, PTE Academic primarily serves those eyeing university education. While it's a pathway for visa applications to Australia and New Zealand, the global acceptance and the learning resources of IELTS is more helpful for test takers.
- C1 Advanced - Having been accepted by 9,000+ institutions, C1 Advanced (formerly Cambridge English: Advanced) is another common English language assessment. While the exam also tests reading, listening, writing, and speaking skills, the extensive preparatory resources of IELTS may provide a better experience for test takers.
- Duolingo English Test (DET) - The DET is an online on-demand test that doesn’t require advanced booking to take. While it is accepted by over 4,000 institutions, DET testing is less widely relied upon than IELTS.
- Password English Language Test - Primarily used in the UK and Europe, this online test is administered by the CRELLA research group. Despite offering carefully designed tests and fast results, the Password English test is recognised by relatively few institutions.
What makes IELTS so special?
When it comes to proving your English proficiency, you want an exam that prepares you for real-world scenarios. By studying for the IELTS Academic test, you get training in the English you’ll actually use in university. The assessment is well-rounded and tests all key skills, including listening, reading, writing, and speaking.
IELTS courses and examinations accommodate both British and American spelling, making them relevant for universities around the world. But one stand-out feature of the assessment is that it focuses on understanding the English spoken by different nationalities. The Listening section includes a range of accents, making it an ideal choice if you’ll be studying in multicultural universities.
IELTS also offers significant flexibility. Depending on their location, learners can choose between taking the test on paper or on computer. Also, in some locations you'll have the choice to take the IELTS Academic test in a test centre or online from the comfort of your home. Many other exams, like TOEFL, are primarily computer-based, which may not suit everyone's preferences.
The IELTS test is accepted nearly everywhere and is recognised by 12,500 organisations, including immigration departments in countries like Australia, Canada, the US, the UK, and New Zealand. If you're looking to study or settle in these countries, IELTS might be the best choice.
Which English proficiency test is right for you?
Choosing the right test can be like picking the right running shoes; it really depends on your own needs and where you're planning to go. Some universities prefer one test over another, and some countries have unique visa requirements.
The availability of test preparation resources also makes a huge difference in your confidence and readiness. Carefully consider IELTS and its alternatives before choosing the best test for you.
How IELTS opens doors to higher education
If you want to attend a top-tier university, where English is the primary language of instruction, you'll likely find IELTS is not just preferred — it's often a requirement. There's a good reason for that.
The IELTS Academic test fairly and accurately measures whether you have the level of English language proficiency needed in academic settings.
It isn't just about understanding English. The IELTS Academic test also prepares you for the unique demands of academic language. IELTS achieves this by testing key features of academic language. This ensures you’re prepared to engage with texts, lectures, discussions, and activities common in higher education.
IELTS also tests your ability to overcome cultural challenges and thrive in English-speaking environments. This is true for all degrees, regardless of whether you want to study computer science in Boston or literature in London.
Succeeding on the IELTS Academic test tells universities and visa officers that you’re socially, intellectually, and culturally prepared for your academic journey.
What can you expect when taking the IELTS Academic test?
While there are over 1,600 IELTS test locations in more than 140 countries, the most convenient way to take your IELTS Academic test is through an organisation that co-owns the test, like The British Council.
The IELTS Academic test is 2 hours and 45 minutes long and consists of four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
You can take the test at a local testing centre or online from the comfort of your home — or any other private location with a stable internet connection. This offers you greater flexibility in choosing your test environment. IELTS Online is available in selected regions, so please check if it's available in your country.
The Listening, Reading, and Writing sections take place on the same day with no breaks in between. The Speaking section may be scheduled up to a week before or after the other sections.
Learn more about the IELTS Academic test format
How to prepare for the IELTS Academic test
Preparation is key to succeeding on your IELTS Academic test. This requires understanding the test format, improving your skills, and building your confidence so you can perform under test conditions. At the British Council, we offer a variety of resources, including exclusive access to IELTS Ready, to help you do just that.
Learn more about IELTS Ready and other IELTS preparation materials
Understanding your IELTS score
IELTS scores are easy to understand and are assessed using a scale that ranges from 1.0 to 9.0. The higher your score, the higher your level of English language proficiency. Each university will have its own minimum score requirements for accepting applications.
Typically, these minimum scores fall within the 6.0 to 7.0 range. Of course, achieving a higher score will improve your chances of being accepted. After confirming that your score meets the criteria of your ideal university, you'll need to submit an official Test Report Form (TRF) or its electronic version (eTRF) as proof of your eligibility. These are provided upon completing the IELTS Academic test.
Why you should choose the British Council for your IELTS Academic test
With decades of experience and a global reputation for quality, the British Council is the preferred choice for millions of IELTS test-takers. Here's why you should choose the British Council for your IELTS Academic test: