Immigration Information

IELTS Language Test

Introduction to the IELTS Language Test


For individuals contemplating immigration to pursue studies, work, or residence in foreign countries, a valid language certificate is often a prerequisite.


The IELTS certificate is a crucial document required when entering universities and English-speaking nations. Recognized by approximately 10,000 organizations globally, the IELTS test assesses individuals’ proficiency in the English language.

The IELTS test, an abbreviation for the International English Language Testing System, is a highly valid English language assessment conducted worldwide. It is a British test, placing it on par with TOEFL, an American test. Organized by the University of Cambridge, the British Cultural Council, and the Australian IELTS Center, it boasts the highest international standard for English language evaluation.


The IELTS test evaluates participants in four key skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.

Two Types of IELTS Tests:

  1. Academic IELTS TestDesigned for individuals intending to pursue higher education abroad, especially in English-speaking countries like England, Canada, and Australia.
  1. General IELTS TestIntended for those planning immigration to Australia, Canada, and the UK, or seeking admission to secondary education, training programs, and work experience in English-speaking countries.

Note: An IELTS language certificate is acceptable for internal exams, such as specialized doctorate or medical bachelor’s exams requiring a language certificate for registration and passing.

Sections of the IELTS Test


Listening Section

Time: About 40 minutes

Number of questions: A booklet with forty questions in 4 sections

Assesses the candidate’s ability to understand conversations, scattered details, and various topics through listening.

General Training Reading Section

Time: 60 minutes for 40 questions

Involves reading texts without additional time for transferring answers. Texts cover daily social affairs, educational pamphlets, welfare needs, and a long text with a general topic.

Academic Reading Section

Time: 60 minutes for 40 questions

Requires reading three scientific and academic texts. No extra time for transferring answers is provided.

General Training Writing Section

Time: 60 minutes

Involves writing for two topics: a letter (Task 1) and an opinion essay (Task 2). Allocate 20 minutes for Task 1 and 40 minutes for Task 2.

Academic Writing Section

Time: 60 minutes

Involves writing for two topics: explaining a table or graph (Task 1) and an opinion essay (Task 2). Allocate 20 minutes for Task 1 and 40 minutes for Task 2.

Speaking Section

Time: 15 to 20 minutes

Includes three parts: answering general and personal questions, speaking on a Topic Card, and discussing the topic from the second part with the interviewer.

Scoring of the IELTS Test

The scoring system ranges from 0 to 9, reflecting the individual’s level of language proficiency.

There is no “passing score,” but scores are valued based on expectations. A score of 5 is considered average, while 6 and above are considered good.

Result Announcement

Results are usually announced two weeks after the speaking part concludes. The validity of the results is two years, and universities do not accept IELTS scorecards older than two years.