Relevant and true to life

The IELTS test consists of questions that are relevant to the way test takers need to use English in their studies or working lives. IELTS has always included a face-to-face Speaking component which prompts the most realistic performance from test takers. The use of the face-to-face component in a high-stakes test is supported by a body of current academic research and continues to set IELTS apart from other English language tests.

Over the past three decades, feedback provided by organisations and institutions which recognise IELTS has been instrumental in developing the IELTS test to better meet your needs. One such development was to introduce a choice of two IELTS tests: Academic or General Training.

The IELTS Academic test measures English language proficiency needed for an academic, higher learning environment. The tasks and texts are accessible to all test takers, irrespective of each student's studies to date.

The IELTS General Training test measures English language proficiency in a practical, everyday context. The tasks and texts reflect both workplace and social situations.