IELTS Exam 2024

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.

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. 

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.

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.
 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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. 

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.

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. 

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.