What is the IELTS Exam? Your Guide to Unlocking Global Opportunities
The IELTS exam is your passport to studying, working, or living abroad. TEO Academy offers personalised tutoring to help you confidently achieve your target band score.
Last updated: 22 August 2025
Find Your IELTS TutorWhat is the IELTS Exam?
IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is the world’s most popular English language proficiency test for higher education and global migration. It is designed to assess your English skills in realistic social, academic, and professional situations and is trusted by over 12,500 organisations globally, including universities, employers, and immigration authorities like the UK Home Office. For more detail, you can visit the official IELTS website.
Who Needs to Take the IELTS Test?
You may need to take the IELTS test and achieve a specific band score if you are planning to:
- Study Abroad: Most universities and colleges in English-speaking countries require an IELTS Academic score for admission.
- Work or Train Internationally: The IELTS General Training test is often needed for work visas, professional registrations, or training programmes.
- Emigrate: Immigration authorities in the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand accept IELTS scores as proof of your English language ability.
Choosing the Right Test: Academic vs. General Training
IELTS offers two main tests to suit different goals. While the Listening and Speaking sections are the same for both, the Reading and Writing sections differ.
IELTS Academic
This test assesses whether your English is suitable for an academic environment. It is the standard requirement for anyone pursuing higher education at an English-speaking institution.
IELTS General Training
This test focuses on the English skills needed for workplace and social situations. It is ideal for those planning to work, undertake training, or emigrate to an English-speaking country.
Inside the IELTS Exam: Test Format and Structure
The total test time is 2 hours and 45 minutes. The Listening, Reading, and Writing sections are completed on the same day without breaks, while the Speaking test may be on a different day.
Listening (30 mins)
Four recordings of native English speakers, including monologues and conversations. You will answer questions based on what you hear.
Reading (60 mins)
Three long reading passages with tasks. Texts are taken from books, journals, and newspapers. Assesses reading for gist, main ideas, and detail.
Writing (60 mins)
Two tasks. Task 1 requires describing a chart or diagram (Academic) or writing a letter (General). Task 2 is a formal essay.
Speaking (11-14 mins)
A face-to-face or video call interview with an examiner. Includes a short Q&A, speaking at length on a topic, and a discussion.
TEO Academy: Your Partner in IELTS Success
Succeeding in the IELTS exam requires more than just knowing English; it requires strategy. Our platform connects you with experienced tutors who provide 1-to-1 instruction tailored to your specific needs.
Personalised Learning
Create a customised study plan with your tutor that targets your specific weaknesses and aligns with your score goals for maximum impact.
Expert IELTS Tutors
Learn from qualified professionals who understand the IELTS format and scoring criteria inside and out, providing you with expert tips and feedback.
Real-World Practice
Move beyond textbook exercises. Practise with mock tests and realistic speaking and writing tasks to build your confidence for test day.
Flexible and Convenient
With expert tutors available across different time zones, you can easily book sessions that fit into your busy schedule, wherever you are in the world.
Your Journey to a High Score in 3 Simple Steps
1. Find Your Expert Tutor
Browse our platform to find a tutor with proven experience in IELTS preparation. Watch introduction videos and read reviews to choose the perfect match.
2. Personalise Your Plan
Work 1-to-1 with your tutor to set clear objectives. Focus on the key areas you need to improve, whether it's mastering essay structures or improving your speaking fluency.
3. Achieve Your Goals
Apply your new skills and strategies with confidence. Track your progress through practice tests and gain the fluency needed to achieve your target band score.
Frequently Asked Questions about IELTS
Q: How is the IELTS exam scored?
A: IELTS is scored on a 9-band scale for each of the four sections (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking). Your overall band score is an average of these four scores. Most universities and immigration bodies require a specific overall and per-section band score.
Q: How long is an IELTS score valid for?
A: Your IELTS Test Report Form (TRF) is valid for two years from the test date. You must ensure your score is valid when you submit it to any organisation.
Q: Which IELTS test do I need for a UK visa?
A: For most UK visas, including the Skilled Worker visa, you will need 'IELTS for UKVI'. This can be Academic or General Training, depending on your visa route, and is taken at a secure, Home Office-approved test centre.
Q: Can I take the IELTS test online?
A: Yes, 'IELTS Online' is available for the Academic test in certain regions. However, you must check if the organisation you are applying to accepts the online version, as not all do, especially for immigration purposes.
Ready to Achieve Your IELTS Goal?
Don't let the IELTS exam be a barrier to your dreams. With personalised support from a TEO Academy tutor, you can gain the skills and confidence you need to succeed. Ready to get started?
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