There are several questions, assumptions, and conclusions when it comes to talking about the IELTS test. Starting from what IELTS is, and which type you should be taking to what those final bands really mean. All these questions will be answered here.  

What is the IELTS test?

The word IELTS stands for International English Language Testing System. So, you could say that IELTS is a test to evaluate your English language skills of listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Yes, you take 4 tests when you take the IELTS. The exam runs for about 3 hours divided into the following: 30-40 minutes of listening, an hour of reading, an hour of writing, and 10-20 minutes of speaking.

You can take the test on one of the two forms: computerized and paper-based. Personally, I prefer the computerized test. At least, it is much easier to erase what you don’t like in your writing on a computer while it could be a waste of time to do so on a piece of paper.

Academic or General Training 

There are two different sorts of tests: the academic and the general training IELTS tests. Both reading and the first task of writing are different based on which type of test you take. In the academic reading, there are 3 long passages while there are up to 5 passages in the general training reading. Also, when you take the academic writing task one, you will be asked to respond to a chart while you write letters when taking the general training task one.

Thus, you need to decide which one you will be taking first. You can learn about that by checking up with the organization to which you would give your IELTS certificate.

IELTS vs. CEFR

The test is built on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) which represents language proficiency, starting from A1 reaching up to a native-like level of C1 and C2. So, each band of the IELTS test reflects what level of language you are.

• • Limited User: Band 4 = A1-A2
  • Modest User: Band 5 = A2-B1
  • Competent User: Band 6 = B1-B2
  • Good User: Band 7 = C1
  • Very Good User: Band 8 = C2
  • Excellent User: Band 9 = C2

Remember that practice makes perfect. You need to study English as a language to speak, write, read and listen to before you take the test.