Different Types of IELTS Exam
IELTS is the International English Language Testing System, designed to measure your ability to use English in real-life situations. It is trusted worldwide by universities, employers, and governments.
Academic IELTS
The IELTS Academic test is designed for students aiming to study at a university level and for professionals seeking registration in regulated fields.
It is recognised globally and accepted by universities, professional bodies and institutions around the world.
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The Format
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Listening: 30 minutes plus 10 minutes to transfer answers; 4 parts, 40 questions
Reading: 60 minutes; 3 academic texts with 40 questions
Two Writing Tasks
Task 1: Describe visual info (table, graph, diagram), 150 words, 20 minutes
Task 2: Essay, 250 words, 40 minutes
Speaking: 11-14 minutes; face-to-face with an examiner
Part 1: Introduction and interview
Part 2: Short talk, 1 minute preparation, speak 2 minutes
Part 3: Discussion
General IELTS
The IELTS General Training test is designed for people who want to work, train or migrate to an English speaking country.
It focuses on practical, everyday English skills in reading, writing, listening and speaking, helping you succeed in real-world contexts.
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The Format
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The main difference to the academic IELTS is the Reading and Writing focus is on everyday practical English designed for real-world situations rather than academic contexts.
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Listening: 30 minutes plus 10 minutes to transfer answers; 4 parts, 40 questions
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Reading: 60 minutes; 3 sections covering workplace, social, and general interest topics.
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Two Writing Tasks
Task 1: Letter, at least 150 words, 20 minutes
Task 2: Essay, 250 words, 40 minutes
Speaking: 11-14 minutes; face-to-face with an examiner
Part 1: Introduction and interview
Part 2: Short talk, 1 minute preparation, speak 2 minutes
Part 3: Discussion
IELTS UKVI Life Skills
The IELTS UKVI Life Skills test is for people who need to prove their English speaking and listening ability for UK visas.
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It focuses on practical communication skills, helping you confidently handle everyday situations in English.
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The Format
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Tested Skills:
Speaking and Listening only (no Reading or Writing)
Duration by Level:
A1: 16-18 minutes
A2: 20 minutes
B1: 22 minutes
The test is taken face-to-face with an examiner and one other test taker; tasks reflect real-life communication situations
What Next?
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Official IELTS Websites
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IELTS www.ielts.org
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IDP IELTS www.ielts.idp.com
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British Council www.takeielts.britishcouncil.org