Your Complete Guide to IELTS

Proving your English proficiency is often a mandatory requirement when you plan to study or work overseas. is one of the most recognized English language proficiency tests worldwide. It is accepted by over 11,000 institutions, including top-ranked universities and professional organizations.

IELTS evaluates your English skills through four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Offered in both Academic and General Training versions, IELTS is a top choice for university admissions, immigration, and professional registration in the . Test-takers can choose between paper-based and computer-based formats.

Key Differences between IELTS & TOEFL

FeatureIELTSBenefits
Speaking SectionFace-to-face with examinerMore natural & Personal
Question TypesVaried formats
Test DurationAround 3 hours
Test Result AvailabilityResults in 13 days
Score ValidityValid for two years

When should you take the IELTS?

You should plan to take the IELTS test in the first semester of your final year of high school, or several months before your university application deadlines. This timing gives you a comfortable window to receive your results, and, if needed, to retake the test to improve your score. Early preparation ensures you meet application requirements and gives you the best chance of achieving your desired results before important deadlines.

IELTS Exam Format

Feature / SectionSectionNo of QuestionsDuration
Reading3 sections40 questions60 mins
Listening4 sections40 questions30 Minutes
Writing2 tasks60 mins
Speaking3 partsFace to face11-14 mins

IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge English Exam Equivalency

IELTS BandTOEFL iBTCambridge English ScaleCambridge ExamGeneral Entry Requirement for
9118–120200–230C2 Proficiency (CPE)
8.5115–117191–199C2 Proficiency (CPE)
8110–114185–190C2 Proficiency (CPE)
7.5102–109176–184C1 Advanced (CAE)Master Degree
794–101169–175C1 Advanced (CAE)Master Degree
6.579–93162–168B2 First (FCE)Bachelor / Master Degree, depend on the subject you choose
660–78154–161B2 First (FCE)Bachelor Degree
5.546–59147–153B2 First (FCE)Diploma
535–45140–146B1 Preliminary (PET)Diploma

*Good score range for IELTS, TOEFL and Cambridge English Test, is within the highlighted area.*

Preparing for IELTS

Preparing for the IELTS doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Fortrust, we specialize in helping students achieve their target IELTS scores with tailored coaching, mock tests, and 1-on-1 guidance or in a group format, online and offline. Don’t let English be a barrier — let it be your passport to the world.

Ready to Ace Your Language Test?

Don’t let language be a barrier — let it be your passport to the world. Book your free trial class with Fortrust today!

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