IELTS
IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
It is a test of English Language proficiency. It is jointly managed by the University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations, the British Council and IDP.
There are two versions of the IELTS: The Academic Version and the General Version.
The IELTS Test Structure (Total Test Duration 2 hours 45 minutes.)
The IELTS test comprises of four Modules – Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. Scores are reported in “bands” for the individual modules and the overall tests. All candidates take the same Listening and Speaking Modules, while the Reading and Writing Modules differ depending on whether the candidate is taking the Academic or General Training Versions of the Test. .
The first three modules – Listening, Reading and Writing (always in that order) – are completed in one day with no break in between. The Speaking Module may be taken, at the discretion of the test center. It is generally administered on the day of the test or on the following day. An IELTS result or Test Report Form (TRF) is valid for two years
Listening: 30 Minutes
Reading: 60 Minutes
Writing: 60 Minutes
Speaking: 11-14 Minutes
What does IELTS band scale represent?
IELTS is scored on the nice band scale, with each band corresponding to a specified competence in English. The band Scores are in either whole or half Bands. The nine bands are described as follows
| Score | Band | Proficiency |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | Expert User | Has full command of the language: appropriate, accurate and fluent with complete understanding. It is very hard to attain this score. |
| 8 | Advanced User | Has fully operational command of the language with only occasional unsystematic inaccuracies and in appropriacies. Handles complex detailed argumentation well. |
| 7 | Intermediate User | Has operational command of the language, though with occasional inaccuracies, inappropriateness and misunderstandings in some situations. It generally handles complex language well and understands detailed reasoning. |
| 6 | Competent User | Has generally effective command of the language despite some inaccuracies, inappropriateness and misunderstandings. I can use and understand fairly complex language, particularly in a familiar situation. |
| 5 | Modest User | Has partial command of the language, coping with overall meaning in most situations, though is likely to make many mistakes. The candidate should be able to handle communications in his or her own feild. |
| 4 | Limited User | Basic competence is limited to familiar situations. Has frequent problems in using complex language. |
| 3 | Extremly Limited User | Conveys and understands the only general meaning in very familiar situations. Frequent breakdowns in communication occur. |
| 2 | Intermittent User | No real communication is possible except for the most basic information using isolated words or short formulae in familiar situations and to meet immediate needs. Has great difficulty understanding spoken and written English. |
| 1 | Non User | Essentially has no ability to use the language beyond possibly a few isolated words. |
| 0 | Did not attempt the test | No assessable information provided. |
Important Resources
IELTS Test Centers in Nepal
IELTS Test Samples (Official)
IELTS Tips – Reading
IELTS Tips – Listening
IELTS Tips – Writing
IELTS Tips – Speaking
IELTS Reading Band Score 8.0
IELTS Listening Band Score 8.0
IELTS Speaking Band Score 8.0
IELTS Writing Band Score 8.0
IELTS Practice Tests
IELTS Practice Tests
