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The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a standardized test designed to assess the English language proficiency of non-native speakers. It is widely recognized and accepted by educational institutions, employers, immigration authorities, and professional bodies globally, especially in countries like the UK, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the US.
Types of IELTS
There are two main types of IELTS tests, each serving different purposes depending on your goals, such as studying abroad, migrating, or seeking professional registration
1. IELTS Academic
Purpose: For those applying for higher education or professional registration in an English-speaking environment.
2.IELTS General Training
Purpose: For those migrating to English-speaking countries like the UK, Australia, Canada, or New Zealand, or applying for secondary education, work experience, or training programs in English-speaking environments.
Comparison of IELTS Academic vs. General Training
| Aspect | IELTS Academic | IELTS General Training |
|---|---|---|
|
Reading Section |
Academic texts from books, journals, and newspapers.
|
Texts related to social survival, work-related situations, and general reading. |
|
Writing Section |
Task 1: Describe data (graph, chart, and diagram).
Task 2: Academic essay. |
Task 1: Write a letter (formal, semi-formal, informal).
Task 2: Essay on everyday issues. |
|
Target Audience |
Students and professionals aiming for higher education or registration. |
Individuals migrating for work, visa, or secondary education purposes. |
Additional Variations
1. IELTS for UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration)
– A specialized version of IELTS that’s required for visa applications to the UK.
– Available in both Academic and General Training formats.
2. IELTS Life Skills
– A test focused only on speaking and listening, designed for visa and immigration purposes in the UK.
– It is available at A1 and B1 levels of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR).
Content and Structure of IELTS Test
-Multiple choice, matching, plan/map/diagram labeling, form/note/table/flow-chart/summary completion, sentence completion.(30 minutes + 10 minutes (paper-based))
-Multiple choice, identifying information (True/False/Not Given), identifying writer’s views (Yes/No/Not Given), matching headings/features, sentence completion, summary/note/table/flow-chart completion, diagram labeling, short-answer questions.
– Tasks include analysis, comparison, and description in Task 1. |
-Evaluated on fluency, coherence, pronunciation, lexical resource, and grammatical range and accuracy.
Need More details?
Listening Content
Part 1: Conversation in a social context (e.g., booking an appointment).
Part 2: Monologue on a general topic (e.g., speech about facilities).
Part 3: Conversation in an educational context (e.g., discussion among students).
Part 4: Monologue on an academic topic (e.g., university lecture).
Reading Content
– IELTS Academic: Texts from books, journals, magazines, newspapers.
– IELTS General Training: Texts on everyday topics, focusing on social survival, work-related situations, and general reading.
Writing Content
– IELTS Academic:
Task 1: Summarizing information from graphs, tables, charts, or diagrams.
Task 2: Essay responding to an argument or problem.
– IELTS General Training:
Task 1: Writing a letter (formal, semi-formal, or informal).
Task 2: Essay responding to a point of view or problem.
Speaking Content
Part 1: Introduction and interview (General questions about personal topics like family, work, hobbies).
Part 2: Long turn – Topic-based speech (1-2 minutes after 1 minute of preparation).
Part 3: Discussion – Abstract ideas and deeper discussion related to Part 2.
IELTS test fees in Nepal
| Test Type | Current Test Fees |
|---|---|
|
IELTS on Paper (Academic and General Training) |
NPR. 31,500 |
|
IELTS on Computer (Academic and General Training) |
NPR. 25,000 for paid registration until 30 September 2024 |
|
IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration on paper (Academic and General Training) |
NPR. 34,000 |
|
IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration on computer (Academic and General Training) |
NPR. 28,800 |
|
IELTS Life Skills (A1 and B1) |
NPR. 24,000 |
Required Documents to Book IELTS Test
1. Valid Identification Document (Passport)
2. Passport-Sized Photograph (Sometimes required)
3. Personal Information (Fullname as perpassport/date of birth/Nationality/Address/contac detailsPhone number and email address)
4. Payment Proof (Payment details or a screenshot of payment completion if you are paying online.)
5. IELTS Account and Reference Number
6. Consent Form for Minors(If you are under 18, some test centers may require a consent form signed by a parent or guardian.)
IELTS Refund Policy
1. Cancellation More Than 5 Weeks Before the Test Date
– If you cancel your IELTS test more than 5 weeks before the scheduled test date, you are typically eligible for a refund.
– Refund Amount: Usually, the test fee minus an administrative fee (often around 25%).
2. Cancellation Less Than 5 Weeks Before the Test Date
– If you cancel less than 5 weeks before the test, you are generally not eligible for a refund unless there are special circumstances (e.g., medical emergency).
3. Cancellation Due to Illness or Other Serious Reasons
– If you need to cancel your test due to illness or another serious reason, you may receive a partial refund or the option to reschedule.
– Requirements: You usually need to provide official documentation, such as a medical certificate, within a specified time (typically 5 days from the test date).
4. Absence on Test Day
– If you do not attend the test without prior notice, you typically will not receive a refund.
– Some centers may allow a refund or rescheduling for valid reasons if proper documentation is provided.
5. Rescheduling (Transfer) Policy:
– If you need to change your test date, you can usually request a transfer more than 5 weeks before the original test date.
– Transfer Fee: An administrative fee is often applied.
– If a test date change is requested within 5 weeks of the test, you may need to provide a valid reason (e.g., illness) to avoid losing the test fee.
How to Request a Refund or Reschedule
- Contact the test center where you booked the IELTS test.
- Provide relevant documentation, if required.
- Follow the test center’s specific instructions and deadlines for cancellations, refunds, or transfers.
Special Cases:
– Each test center may have its own policies or additional terms, so it’s advisable to check directly with your chosen test center for specific details.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ's)
General Information
IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is a standardized English proficiency test designed to assess the language skills of non-native English speakers.
There are two types: IELTS Academic (for higher education and professional registration) and IELTS General Training (for migration, work, and secondary education).
If you’re applying for university or professional certification, choose IELTS Academic. If migrating or seeking work, choose IELTS General Training.
IELTS is scored on a 9-band scale, from 1 (non-user) to 9 (expert user). Each test section (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking) is scored individually, and an overall band score is given.
IELTS scores are valid for 2 years from the test date.
There is no limit on how often you can take the IELTS test. You can retake it whenever you feel prepared.
The test has four sections: Listening (30 minutes), Reading (60 minutes), Writing (60 minutes), and Speaking (11-14 minutes).
The total test duration is 2 hours and 45 minutes. The Listening, Reading, and Writing tests are taken on the same day, while the Speaking test may be scheduled on the same day or up to a week before or after.
Yes, IELTS is available in both paper-based and computer-delivered formats.
The content and scoring are identical. The main difference is that the computer-based test allows faster results (in 3-5 days) and more frequent test dates.
Registration and Test Booking
A valid passport is required. Some centers may also ask for a recent passport-sized photograph.
The cost varies by country, but it typically ranges between $200 and $250 USD (NPR 25,000 – 27,000 in Nepal).
Yes, you can change the test date, but it must be done at least 5 weeks before the test. An administrative fee may apply.
If you cancel more than 5 weeks before the test date, you may receive a refund minus an administrative fee. Cancellation within 5 weeks usually results in no refund unless there’s a valid reason.
If you miss the test without prior notice, you typically won’t receive a refund or be able to reschedule unless you provide valid documentation (e.g., a medical certificate).
No, the order is fixed. Listening, Reading, and Writing are taken consecutively, while Speaking is scheduled separately.
Preparation and Study Resources
Start by understanding the test format, practicing sample questions, taking mock tests, and improving your general English skills. You can also use IELTS preparation books and online resources.
Yes, the official IELTS website offers free practice tests and materials. You can also find practice tests in IELTS preparation books.
Free study materials are available on the official IELTS website, YouTube channels, and various educational websites.
It’s not mandatory, but coaching classes can help you understand the format, practice effectively, and get personalized feedback.
Practice listening to English audio, reading widely, writing essays, and speaking with fluent English speakers. Focus on grammar, vocabulary, and fluency.
Test Day and Procedures
Bring your valid passport and the printout of your test confirmation. Some centers may also ask for a recent passport-sized photograph.
Your passport is typically the only accepted ID for IELTS.
If you arrive late, you might not be allowed to take the test, and your fee may not be refunded.
No food is allowed. You can bring a transparent water bottle without labels.
No breaks are allowed during the Listening, Reading, and Writing sections. You’ll need to complete them consecutively.
Inform the test center immediately. If you can provide a medical certificate, you may be allowed to reschedule or receive a refund.
Test Sections (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking)
The Listening section involves listening to four recordings and answering 40 questions. The recordings include conversations and monologues in various contexts.
The Reading section includes multiple-choice questions, matching headings, True/False/Not Given, sentence completion, and short-answer questions
IELTS Academic involves describing data and writing an essay. General Training involves writing a letter and an essay.
The Speaking test is a face-to-face interview divided into three parts: introduction and interview, long turn (2-minute speech), and a discussion on abstract topics.
You can ask the examiner to repeat or clarify the question, but they cannot explain the meaning of words or provide translations.
In the Listening section, the audio is played only once, so you cannot ask for a repeat. In Speaking, you can request the examiner to repeat or rephrase the question.
Yes, both spelling and grammar are important in all sections, especially Writing and Listening.
Listening: 30 minutes, Reading: 60 minutes, Writing: 60 minutes, Speaking: 11-14 minutes.
Results and Re-scoring
Paper-based results are released in 13 days, while computer-delivered results are available in 3-5 days.
You can view your results online on the IELTS website or receive a physical Test Report Form (TRF) from your test center.
Yes, you can choose up to 5 institutions to send your results to for free when you register.
You can request an Enquiry on Results (EOR) if you believe your score is inaccurate. A re-evaluation fee applies.
Yes, you can request a re-evaluation (Enquiry on Results) within 6 weeks of your test date.
Re-evaluation results typically take 2-21 days. If your score changes, the fee is refunded.
Special Requirements and Conditions
Yes, IELTS provides accommodations for candidates with disabilities, such as extra time, large print papers, or a scribe.
Accommodations include extended time, braille test papers, lip-reading support, and more, based on your needs.
No, dictionaries or any reference materials are not allowed during the test.
All electronic devices must be switched off and placed in the designated area outside the test room.
Post-Test Information
You can request up to 5 free TRFs during registration. For additional copies, there is usually a fee.
No, you must have a valid passport for both registration
How to re-check or re-evaluate your IELTS test score
You will need to request an Enquiry on Results (EOR). Here’s a detailed guide on the process and associated costs:
Enquiry on Results (EOR) Process
1. Request the EOR
– How to Request: Contact your test center within 6 weeks of receiving your IELTS results. You can request the EOR in person at the test center or by mail. Some centers may also allow online requests.
– Forms: Fill out the EOR application form provided by your test center.
2. Pay the EOR Fee
– Fee: The fee for an Enquiry on Results is typically around $100 – $150 USD (or equivalent in local currency). In Nepal, this may be approximately NPR 13,000 to NPR 18,000. The fee is non-refundable unless your score changes.
– Payment Method: Payment details will be provided by your test center. Fees are generally paid by bank transfer, credit/debit card, or in cash.
3. Processing Time
– Duration: The re-evaluation process can take between 2 to 21 days, depending on the test center and the volume of requests.
– Result: You will receive the outcome of the re-evaluation, which may confirm your original score or provide a new score.
4. Score Change
– If Your Score Changes: If your score changes after the re-evaluation, the EOR fee is refunded.
– If No Change: If there is no change to your score, the EOR fee is not refunded.
5. Receiving Results
– Notification: You will be notified of the outcome by the test center. The new score, if applicable, will be sent to you and any institutions you requested.
Additional Tips
- Documentation: Keep a copy of your original results and any correspondence related to the EOR request.
- Eligibility: Ensure you are within the 6-week period from your test date to request a re-evaluation.
- Contact Details: Use the contact information provided on your test center’s official website or your test confirmation email.