The IELTS or International English Language Testing System is designed to assess your level of English. It certifies that you have the skills required to continue your studies abroad. Many universities around the world require it of students who want to apply for a course with them. It is therefore important to know how the IELTS test works.
Which countries accept IELTS?
Along with TOEFL and TOEIC, the IELTS English test is increasingly sought by people who want to study abroad. This is because many English-speaking universities around the world ask for it to benchmark your English language skills. In the United States, almost all universities accept the IELTS and it is even possible to get a scholarship based on your test score. You can also get into some prestigious universities in Canada with the IELTS. IELTS is also very popular in countries like Australia and New Zealand. The same is true for countries in Europe and the Middle East. For some time now, IELTS has also taken an important place in England, at the same level as the Cambridge exam.
How do I take the IELTS test?
As IELTS can give you access to many prestigious universities around the world, you will need to take and pass the test. The test is designed to assess four important skills. These are listening, reading, writing and speaking. The test lasts about 3 hours. You will then be given a grade. In general, universities require an average of more than 6.5. However, this grade varies depending on the university you want to attend. In fact, the more prestigious they are, the higher the marks required are.
Therefore, you should prepare well for the test if you want to continue your studies in such universities, as well as to qualify for a scholarship.
How to prepare for the IELTS test?
First and foremost, you should understand that the IELTS test is not something you cram for. You will need to prepare days in advance and understand how the test works. For this, you have the choice of preparing on your own using books or preparing online. In the first case, many books are available and they allow you to do exercises similar to the ones you will find on the test which will help you pass the exam in the best conditions. For the second case, many institutions have websites which offer activities you can do to prepare your test. The goal is to simulate the test with exercises. In addition to that, you will be able to evaluate your level, because scores will be given to you immediately as you finish the task.