When can I take the IELTS test, and what sections does it have?
24 Sept 2026 · Answered by Yasika Choudhary · 1 min read
Quick Answer
verified
Yes, you can book IELTS Academic on multiple dates throughout the year at test centers across India. The test has 4 sections, Listening at 30 minutes, Reading at 60 minutes, Writing at 60 minutes, and Speaking at 11 to 14 minutes, about 2 hours 45 minutes total.
You can sit IELTS Academic on multiple dates throughout the year at test centers across India, so you can pick a date that fits your university application deadlines.
The 4 IELTS Sections
| Section | Duration | What You Do |
|---|---|---|
| Listening | About 30 minutes | Listen to 4 recordings and answer 40 questions |
| Reading | 60 minutes | Read passages and answer 40 questions |
| Writing | 60 minutes | Complete 2 writing tasks |
| Speaking | 11 to 14 minutes | Face-to-face interview with an examiner |
Academic vs General Training
- Same sections: Listening and Speaking are identical across both versions.
- Different sections: Reading and Writing differ between Academic and General Training.
- Which to choose: Academic suits university admission, while General Training suits migration or work-based applications.
My Advice
Book your test at least 2 to 3 months before your earliest application deadline, so you have enough time to retake a weak section without putting your intended intake at risk.
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