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IELTS Exam

updated at

Updated on Mar 18, 2024, 04:55

Latest Updates

 

  • The IELTS fee for the Academic and General Training exam has been updated to INR 17,000.
  • IELTS One Skill Retake is now available in India.

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1. Latest Updates for IELTS 2024

Here are the latest updates related to IELTS Exam

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2. What is IELTS Exam?

The IELTS stands for International English Language Testing System. Check more information below. 

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3. IELTS Dates: When can you take IELTS?

Find out how IELTS dates change depending on the test centre.

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4. IELTS Result: How do you check your IELTS results?

IELTS Results are announced within 5-13 days of your test date. Find out how you can view it.

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5. IELTS Fee: How much does IELTS Cost?

The IELTS Fee varies depending on the test you choose. See more details below.

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6. IELTS Band Score: How is IELTS Scored?

Find out how each IELTS module is scored. 

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7. IELTS Centre: Where can you take IELTS?

India has over 75 IELTS centres spread across the country, see more about it below.

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8. IELTS Registration: How can you register for IELTS?

Find out all about registering for IELTS.

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9. IELTS Books: What are the Best Resources for IELTS?

Find out what books are best for IELTS preparation.

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10. IELTS Pattern: What does IELTS Consist of?

Find out more about the duration and number of questions in IELTS. 

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11. IELTS Eligibility: What are the Requirements for IELTS?

Check whether you’re eligible for IELTS.

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12. IELTS Slot Booking: How do you Book your IELTS slot?

You can book IELTS on multiple slots, read to know more.

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13. IELTS Modules: What do the 4 Modules in IELTS Mean?

Everything you need to know about the 4 modules in IELTS. 

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14. IELTS Practice Tests: How Can I Ace IELTS?

Expert tips for effective IELTS prep!

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1.

Latest Updates for IELTS 2024

Latest Updates for IELTS 2024

 

The IELTS fee for the Academic and General Training exam has been updated to INR 17,000.

 

IELTS One Skill Retake is now available in India.
2.

What is IELTS Exam?

  • The IELTS stands for International English Language Testing System. IDP India authorises the IELTS exam for Indian students.
  • IELTS is a 2-hour 45-minute test that tests four main skills: Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking. 
  • IELTS is scored on a scale of 0-9, with each band indicating your expertise in English. 
  • An IELTS score of 6.0 and above is ideal for university entrance.

 

IELTS is a mandatory requirement for studying or working abroad and is accepted by over 11,500 organisations in 140 countries worldwide.

 

Why Take IELTS Exam?

 

  • Universities and immigration offices require IELTS scores for admission and visa purposes. 
  • Most employers in foreign countries request an IELTS score as a part of the application process.
  • A good IELTS score can help your university/work application stand out in today’s competitive environment.
  • Preparing for IELTS improves your language, critical thinking and time management skills. 
3.

IELTS Dates: When can you take IELTS?

  • The IELTS test dates in India are offered throughout the year, providing flexibility for test takers.
  • You can book IELTS as early as 3 months before the test date. 

 

The IELTS paper-based version is available up to 4 days a month and 48 days a year.

The IELTS computer-based test is available all days of the week and up to three times a day.

 

IELTS Test dates are available nationwide in various cities, including major cities such as Delhi, Bangalore, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Chennai. Students should always reserve the exam dates well in advance to avoid last-minute problems.

IELTS Academic Test Dates
IELTS General Test Dates

IELTS Academic Test Dates in India

 

Computer-based Exam Dates

Months Dates
January - December All days of the week, except on public holidays

 

Paper-based Exam Dates

Months Dates
April 6, 13, 18, 27
May 4, 9, 18, 25
June 1, 8, 13, 22
July 6, 11, 20, 27
4.

IELTS Result: How do you check your IELTS results?

Computer Based

Results are declared within 7 days Testing data

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Paper Based Test

Results are declared within 7 days

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E-mail & SMS Alert

Get Score Availability Alerts on SMS & Email

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Get TRF for Analysis

Get Test Report Form (TRF) on your IDP Account

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IELTS Results are announced within 5-13 days of your test date.

After the first 5, ATRFs will cost you INR 250 per university.

 

  • The results can be easily viewed online on IDP IELTS India’s official website.
  • IELTS results are released as a mark sheet, which is known as the IELTS Test Report Form.
  • The IELTS TRF consists of individual scores of all four modules and your overall band score. 
  • You get only one TRF per IELTS test. 5 Additional Test Report Forms (ATRFs) are free and can be sent to universities. 
  • You can select the universities to send the TRFs on your IELTS Application Form.
5.

IELTS Fee: How much does IELTS Cost?

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IELTS Exam Fees in India

IELTS Exam Type Fee (INR)
Academic Computer-based IELTS exam 17,000
Academic Paper-based IELTS exam 17,000
General Training Computer-based IELTS exam 17,000
General Training Paper-based IELTS exam 17,000
IELTS for UKVI Academic 17,250
IELTS for UKVI General Training 17,250
IELTS Life Skills (A1 & B1) 16,050

 

In India, IDP Education oversees the administration of all IELTS exams. While the cost of the IELTS examination remains consistent globally, prices vary from country to country.

 

IELTS recently updated its exam fees for all types of exams. The IELTS fee for 2024 has been revised to INR 17,000, up from 16,250.

 

IELTS IDP has recently revised the exam fee to INR 17,000 for the IELTS Academic and General Training Test.

Similarly, the IELTS UKVI exam fee has also been changed and now stands at INR 17,250.

 

  • The IELTS Fee varies depending on the test you choose. 
  • You can pay the IELTS fee online or offline during the registration process.
  • The IELTS fee is refunded partially depending on when you cancel your test.

 

Note: You should consider carefully before opting for rescheduling, cancellation or revaluation of your IELTS Exam Dates, taking into account the associated fees and the impact on testing plans and deadlines. 

6.

IELTS Band Score: How is IELTS Scored?

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IELTS Score is based on your performance in 4 sections

Your score is determined by combining the band scores from the 4 skills: reading, listening, writing, and speaking`

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Section Scores

You can get whole scores (e.g., 5.0, 6.0, 7.0) or half scores (e.g., 5.5, 6.5, 7.5), eventually rounded to the nearest whole number.

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Total Band Score

Your section scores are averaged to get an overall IELTS Band Score (e.g. 7.5, 8.0).

 

  • Each module of IELTS gets an individual score based on your performance.
  • Band descriptors determine your proficiency and, therefore, your score. 
  • IELTS band descriptors include Task Achievement/Response, Coherence and Cohesion, Lexical Resource, Grammatical Range and Accuracy. 

 

IELTS is scored on a scale of 0 to 9 and is determined by combining the band scores from the four modules.

You can get whole scores (e.g., 5.0, 6.0, 7.0) or half scores (e.g., 5.5, 6.5, 7.5), eventually rounded to the nearest whole number.

 

Note: Scores for individual sections are determined by using band descriptors.

7.

IELTS Centre: Where can you take IELTS?

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Cities with IELTS Test Centres

India has over 75 IELTS centres spread across the country

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Computer or Paper Based Test

Depending on the Test Centre, the IELTS test centre can be administered in computer-based and paper-based format

 

  • You can take the IELTS at your nearest test centre.
  • Test centres can be chosen during the registration/slot booking process.
  • Keep in mind test dates can vary depending on the centre.

 

India has over 75 IELTS centres spread across the country, including some of the most popular cities, such as Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Delhi, and Kochi.

 

Note: When booking your test slot, it is important to check your chosen test centre's specific mode of conduct. Please note that the IELTS Test Dates may vary depending on your selected test centre.

8.

IELTS Registration: How can you register for IELTS?

Register at IDP Branches

Register Online or Offline through IDP

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Valid ID Documents

Provide a copy of a valid passport for ID proof

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IELTS Registration can be completed online or offline at any IDP Branch.

 

  • To Register online, find the nearest test centre and select a date.
  • Choose the type of IELTS you wish to take.
  • Fill in your details, and pay the registration fee to complete your registration. 

 

IDP guidelines say students can not register without a passport

Documents Required for Registration

Valid Passport

Recent Passport

 

To register for the IELTS Exam, find a test centre at the official IELTS website and use the “Find a Test Location” tool to locate an authorized test centre near you. Then, check the available test dates and choose the one that fits your schedule. We have curated a step-by-step process for IELTS Exam Registration for you. 

9.

IELTS Books: What are the Best Resources for IELTS?

Enhance your focus

Enhance your focus on each section with the help of books

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Improve Your Vocabulary

Improve vocabulary for all sections with the help of books

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  • Referring to IELTS Books is one of the most efficient ways to prepare for IELTS exams. 
  • IELTS Books contain a thorough explanation of all the sections, a few handy tips, and include the most relevant sample questions and answers. 
  • There are tons of IELTS books available on the market. Therefore, it’s important to choose credible ones. 

 

Top 5 IELTS Books for Preparation

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Barron's IELTS Superpack

The Official Cambridge Guide to IELTS

Cambridge IELTS 14 Academic Student's Book with Answers

Official IELTS Practice Materials

10.

IELTS Pattern: What does IELTS Consist of?

IELTS is a 2-hour and 45-minute long test containing four modules.

 

  • IELTS Reading requires you to read and analyse the three excerpts and answer the following questions. 
  • IELTS Writing is divided into two tasks: Task 1 and Task 2. The given tasks will require you to describe, summarise, or write an essay regarding the given topics. 
  • IELTS Listening consists of 4 audio recordings and 10 questions for each recording. Examiners mainly intend to understand your ability to absorb ideas and information.
  • IELTS Speaking is conducted in a 1-on-1 interview-like setting and is divided into 3 parts. In this section, you will be asked questions about your home, family, and work, as well as some general topics, abstract ideas and world issues. 
IELTS Reading Exam
IELTS Writing Exam
IELTS Listening Exam
IELTS Speaking Exam
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IELTS Reading Section

As the name implies, the IELTS Reading section requires you to read and analyse the three passages and answer the following questions

3 passages, 40 questions

60 minutes total time

11.

IELTS Eligibility: What are the Requirements for IELTS?

Age Limit

Minimum age of 16 years

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ID Proof

Copy of a valid passport is mandatory

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Education

Secondary Education, Class 10th is required

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12th Score

12th Score is not required.

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The IELTS Exam is designed for individuals aspiring to study or live in English-speaking countries.

 

  • IELTS does not have any mandatory age or qualification requirements. Anyone can take the IELTS exam. 
  • While people of any age can sit for the IELTS exam, consent forms from guardians may be required for those below 18 years of age.
  • You should also be careful of other requirements, such as passport requirements. IELTS has a no-passport, no-test policy. 

 

12.

IELTS Slot Booking: How do you Book your IELTS slot?

 

Computer Based Test

Slots available 3 times a day, 7 days a week

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Paper Based Test

Slots available 4 times a month, 48 times a year

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You can complete your slot booking process online or offline at IDP IELTS India’s office.

 

  • IELTS Slot Booking is a part of the IELTS Registration process.
  • To book your IELTS Slot, choose your desired date, time and centre. 
  • Slots will vary depending on your IELTS test centre.

 

13.

IELTS Modules: What do the 4 Modules in IELTS Mean?

 

Reading

IELTS Reading evaluates your reading comprehension, critical thinking, and ability to understand vocabulary and text structures.

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Speaking

IELTS Speaking tests your fluency, accuracy, vocabulary range, and pronunciation of your spoken English.

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Listening

IELTS Listening tests your ability to understand spoken English and how well you can grasp ideas in a conversation.

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Writing

IELTS Writing evaluates your ability to express your thoughts and ideas in written English and present your ideas logically.

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IELTS is split into 4 modules: Reading, Speaking, Listening and Writing

Speaking and Listening modules are the same for both Academic and General Tests.

The Reading and Writing modules are different in Academic and General Tests.

 

  • Each module is designed to assess a unique language skill in candidates
  • IELTS Reading evaluates your reading comprehension, critical thinking, and ability to understand vocabulary and text structures. 
  • IELTS Listening tests your ability to understand spoken English and how well you can grasp ideas in a conversation.
  • IELTS Writing evaluates your ability to express your thoughts and ideas in written English and present your ideas logically. 
  • IELTS Speaking tests your fluency, accuracy, vocabulary range, and pronunciation of your spoken English.

 

14.

IELTS Practice Tests: How Can I Ace IELTS?

Solving practice tests is an excellent way to test your progress in your preparation journey.

Experts recommend aiming for 2-3 weekly practice tests.

 

 

Let's have a look at an IELTS Speaking sample

 

Cue Card Topic: Describe a Period When You Were Busy. You should say

  • When was the period?
  • Describe the tasks that kept you busy.
  • Explain how you managed your time during the period.
  • Share how you cope with these busy schedules.

 

Q1. How did you prioritise your tasks during that busy period?

Answer 1:

I prioritise tasks based on their deadlines and importance in my busy schedule. First, I try to create tasks with closer deadlines. After finishing them all, I move to the tasks with extended deadlines and try to complete them according to my bandwidth and the deadlines. This helps me cover all the tasks without missing deadlines.  
 

Answer 2: 

I divide my tasks into 2 parts: one for short-term and the other for long-term goals. Then, I consider the timelines and try to cover the most time-consuming tasks with shorter deadlines. After which, I revisit the tasks I can handle quickly and then manage to work on them on weekends. 

Q2. What strategies did you use to stay motivated during such a demanding time?

Answer 1:

I divide complex workloads into small, achievable tasks and fuel myself with little moments of happiness after completing these small tasks. Also, breaking down the tasks into smaller parts makes the work look easier, which could have made it more complex when handled together. 
 

Answer 2:

During difficult hours, I keep myself motivated by constantly reminding myself of the long-term advantages of my efforts. I can also maintain my focus and motivation by considering where I want to reach my goals. I can also balance my energy and motivation by taking care of my health with a proper diet.

Q3. Did you face any challenges while balancing your college and certification courses? How did you overcome them?

Answer 1:

It was a big challenge to balance the college and certification courses. I used to run low on energy after returning home from classes. So, I had significantly less active time to devote to the courses. But yes, with a preparation strategy and setting the timelines for both, I have managed both together. Mostly, I attended the certification course lectures and assignments on weekends.

 

Answer 2:

Managing the certification course and the college was very tough. There were many times when my schedules conflicted and overlapped. Sometimes, there were urgent assignments during the examination. I had to dedicate time to these things daily to overcome this. In case of difficulties, I requested the course coordinators or the college professors to allocate more time to the projects/assignments. 

Q4. How did taking the certification course alongside college benefit your academic and professional development?

Answer 1: 

I had many benefits from taking the certification and college courses. The first is that I was able to use the time for professional development, and I will have less hustle to get an entry into the corporate world. This has also made me more competitive and opened opportunities to grow in my career.

 

Answer 2: 

It has been fruitful for me to seek skill-based courses while completing my academics. These courses gave me a deep understanding of my interest domain and helped me gain practical knowledge. This skill enhancement will help me to take up my dream job and grow professionally.

Next Up

IELTS Practice Test

Read Now Read now

IELTS Modules

Read Now Read now

IELTS Fees

Read Now Read now

IELTS Pattern

Read Now Read now

IELTS Band Score

Read Now Read now

IELTS Important Information

IELTS Accepting Countries

IELTS Accepting Universities

FAQs

Q. How often are IELTS test dates available?

Ans. For paper-based tests, there are up to 4 dates available in a month, and a total of 48 dates available in a calendar year. The computer-based tests, however, are available all days of the week. It's important to note that while test dates are generally available year-round, they may fill up quickly, especially during peak periods. It is advisable to register for the test well in advance to secure your preferred date and location. Additionally, it's recommended to check the official IELTS website or contact your local test center to get accurate and up-to-date information on test dates availability in your area.

Q. How long does it take to receive IELTS test results?

Ans. The time it takes to receive IELTS test results can vary. In most cases, the results are available within 13 calendar days for paper-based tests after the test date. For computer-delivered tests, it takes around five days for the results. However, it's important to note that this is an approximate timeline and can vary depending on various factors, including the test centre and the specific administration of the test. Some test centres may offer an online preview of the results after a few days, but the official Test Report Form (TRF) will be available on the 13th day. 

Q. What is considered a good IELTS band score?

Ans. A good IELTS band score depends on the specific requirements of the institution or organisation to which you are applying. The IELTS test provides results on a scale of 1 to 9, with 9 being the highest score. Different institutions may have different minimum score requirements for admission or employment. In general, a band score of 6 or above is considered a good score, as it demonstrates a proficient level of English language skills. However, keep in mind that the score requirements can vary depending on the specific context. For example, universities or employers in English-speaking countries may require higher scores, typically in the range of 7 to 8 or higher, especially for competitive programs or positions. It's crucial to check the score requirements of the institution or organisation you are interested in to determine what is considered a good score for your specific situation.

Q. What is the IELTS exam fee in 2024?

Ans. The exam fee for the IELTS Academic and General Training tests in 2024 is INR 17,000. The fee has recently been increased; below is a breakdown.
 

IELTS Exam Type

Revised fees 2024

IELTS Academic & General Training (pen and paper-based & computer-delivered)

INR 17,000

IELTS UKVI

INR 17,250

IELTS Life Skills (A1 and B1)

INR 16,050

Q. What are the different modules for the IELTS test?

Ans. IELTS exam has four modules: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. The Listening module assesses your ability to understand spoken English in various contexts. The Reading module evaluates your reading comprehension skills. The Writing module assesses your ability to express your thoughts and ideas in written English. In the IELTS Academic version, you will be required to write a descriptive report based on visual information (e.g., graphs, charts, or diagrams) and an essay in response to a prompt. In the IELTS General Training version, you will write a letter and an essay.

Speaking: This module evaluates your speaking skills in a face-to-face interview with an examiner. It consists of a conversation divided into three parts. In Part 1, you will answer general questions about yourself and familiar topics. In Part 2, you will speak for a few minutes on a given topic. In Part 3, you will engage in a discussion with the examiner on more abstract and complex issues related to the topic in Part 2.

Q. Who is eligible to take the IELTS test?

Ans. IELTS is open to people of all ages and educational backgrounds. However, it is recommended that you are at least 16 years of age before taking an IELTS test as it is an advanced-level test. The IELTS Academic test is suitable for individuals applying to study at an undergraduate or postgraduate level or seeking professional registration in an English-speaking country. The IELTS General Training test is suitable for individuals planning to undertake non-academic training programs, work experience, or immigration purposes in an English-speaking country.

Q. Can I reschedule or cancel my IELTS test after I have registered?

Ans. Yes, you may reschedule or cancel your test location by paying an additional administrative fee. In order to reschedule your IELTS test, it is necessary for the desired test date to be at least 15 days after the date you submit your transfer request. You have the flexibility to reschedule your test without providing any specific reason if the requested reschedule date is 34 days or more in the future. To request a cancellation of your test, the test date must be at least 15 days after the date when you submit the cancellation application. If the test date falls between 15 to 34 days from the current date, or if the payment was made through offline channels, candidates can apply for test cancellation by submitting relevant supporting documents. The cancellation request will be processed once it is approved. Once the cancellation is approved and completed, the refund will be processed within a timeframe of 8-10 business days, with administrative charges deducted from the refund amount.

Q. Is online coaching the best way to prepare for IELTS?

Ans. Online coaching is a convenient and affordable way of IELTS preparation. With the help of the technology you can access the best preparation resources from the comfort of your home or private space. There are many innovative features available on IELTS preparation apps which can help you prepare efficiently for the test. The availability of personalised study plans, extensive study material and training resources, expert guidance and feedback make online coaching classes the easiest mode of IELTS preparation.

Q. What is the duration of IELTS exam?

Ans. The IELTS Academic and General Training tests take a total of 2 hours 44 minutes for completion, and an additional 10 minutes of transfer time for the paper-based test. The Reading and Writing sections take an hour each. The Listening section goes on for 30 minutes, and the Speaking section takes up to 14 minutes. The IELTS Life Skills CEFR Level A1 takes 16–18 minutes, and the IELTS Life Skills CEFR Level B1 is 22 minutes. 

Q. How early should I book the slot for the IELTS exam?

Ans. You may book as early as three months before the test date. The last date to book your slot is one week before the test date. It is advised to write the IELTS test as early as possible, depending on your university or visa application deadlines, which will leave you with enough time to retake the test in case you do not achieve your desired score on the first attempt. There are no limits on the number of times you can attempt the IELTS test. 

Q. How many IELTS sample papers should I practice?

Ans. The number of practice tests you need depends on your proficiency level. If you’re a complete beginner, it is advised to take two tests a week to assess your progress continually. Online coaching classes are a great way to access sample test papers for the IELTS test. You will not only have access to the most recent question types asked in the IELTS exam but also get expert guidance on improving your scores. The more sample papers you practice, the better you will be able to manage your time on test day.

Q. Can I change my IELTS test centre after booking?

Ans. Yes, you are allowed to change your test centre after booking a test centre. You will need to contact your test centre in advance. For computer-based IELTS tests, you must apply at least three weeks before your test date. For paper-based IELTS tests, the test taker needs to apply at least five weeks before the test date to change the test centre. This can be done via email or in person. You can change the location only once after registration. 

Q. How many questions are there in each IELTS section?

Ans. The IELTS test consists of four sections: Speaking, Listening, Reading and Writing. The Listening section has four recorded monologues and conversations, with typically 40 questions in total, with 10 questions for each recording. The Reading section has three reading passages, with typically 40 questions in total, with around 13 or 14 questions for each passage. The Writing section has two tasks, and the test taker is assessed based on their ability to complete the given tasks within the specified word count. The speaking section consists of a face-to-face interview with an examiner. There are three parts in the speaking section, and the number of questions asked can vary based on the test taker’s responses.