Introducing IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a globally recognised English proficiency test designed to assess the language abilities of non-native English speakers. Accepted by over 11,000 institutions in more than 140 countries, IELTS is a key requirement for university admissions, professional registrations, and immigration processes in English-speaking countries such as the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
IELTS evaluates four essential language skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. With two test formats—Academic and General Training—it caters to a range of goals, whether for higher education, career advancement, or migration. Its fair and reliable assessment makes IELTS the preferred choice for individuals looking to demonstrate their English competency and unlock global opportunities.
Why IELTS?
- IELTS is the world’s leading high-stakes English language test, with over 2.5 million tests taken annually.
- More than 9,000 institutions across 140+ countries accept IELTS for education, employment, and migration.
- The test is available at over 1,000 centres globally, including more than 50 locations in the United States.
- IELTS questions are designed by ESL experts from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK, and the US.
- All test content is based on real-world materials, ensuring relevance and authenticity for test-takers worldwide.
IELTS Test Format
Test takers can choose between two versions of the IELTS exam: IELTS Academic or IELTS General Training, depending on their goals and requirements.
IELTS Academic
IELTS Academic is designed for individuals who intend to pursue higher education or obtain professional registration in an English-speaking environment. It evaluates whether a candidate is prepared to study or train at an academic level using English. This version measures English proficiency required in a university or academic setting, with tasks and reading materials accessible to all candidates, regardless of their academic background.
Listening (30 minutes)
Four recorded monologues and conversations
Reading (60 minutes)
- Three long reading passages with tasks
- Texts range from descriptive and factual to discursive and analytical
- May include non-verbal materials such as diagrams, graphs, or illustrations
- Texts are authentic (e.g. from books, journals, magazines, and newspapers)
Writing (60 minutes)
- Writing task of at least 150 words where the test taker must summarize, describe, or explain a table, graph, chart, or diagram
- Short essay task of at least 250 words
Speaking (11 to 14 minutes)
- Includes short questions, speaking at length about a familiar topic, and a structured discussion
IELTS General Training
IELTS General Training is intended for those who are planning to undergo training, gain work experience, or study at a level below a university degree in an English-speaking country. It focuses on essential language skills needed for everyday social and workplace situations. The tasks and content reflect common real-life scenarios, offering a practical approach to language use.
Listening (30 minutes)
Four recorded monologues and conversations
Reading (60 minutes)
- Five or six texts of varying length with tasks
- Section 1 contains two or three short factual texts
- Section 2 contains two short, work-related factual texts
- Section 3 contains one longer text on a topic of general interest
- Texts are authentic (e.g. taken from notices, advertisements, company handbooks, official documents, books, and newspapers)
Writing (60 minutes)
- Letter writing task of at least 150 words
- Short essay task of at least 250 words
Speaking (11 to 14 minutes)
- Includes short questions, speaking at length about a familiar topic, and a structured discussion
**Listening and Speaking test format are the same in IELTS Academic and General Training.
What Can I Do with IELTS?
IELTS for Study
IELTS Academic is designed for those aiming to pursue higher education or professional registration in English-speaking environments. It evaluates readiness for academic training without requiring full mastery of academic writing at entry. IELTS General Training suits individuals training, studying below degree level, or seeking work experience. Institutions value IELTS for its practical approach to assessing academic language use and its support for international student success.
IELTS for Professional Registration
In countries where English is the primary language, IELTS is widely accepted for professional registration. Trusted for over 20 years, it’s preferred for its secure, reliable testing—especially the face-to-face speaking component. Fields such as healthcare, engineering, law, and finance often require IELTS results.
IELTS for Migration
IELTS is recognized by immigration authorities in countries like the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada as proof of English proficiency for migration and visa applications. It plays a key role in skilled migration pathways globally.
Understanding IELTS scores
IELTS uses a nine-band scale to measure English proficiency. Each band reflects a specific level of competence. Scores are reported in whole or half bands (e.g., 7.0, 8.5) for each section and the overall result.
Learn more: IELTS Results
How Much Does IELTS Exam Cost?
Taking the IELTS test on computer for both Academic and General Training is affordable, costing only RM895 for the full 4-skills assessment. You can retake any one IELTS skill—Listening, Reading, Writing, or Speaking—regardless of module, for just RM545.