IELTS (International English Language Testing System) measures English ability for study, work, and migration. Use this hub to move from broad overview to the exact topic you need—format, test type, registration, scores, or preparation.
What IELTS Measures
The exam assesses Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Scores are reported as band scores (typically half-band increments). Institutions set their own requirements.
Who Takes IELTS
- Students applying to universities (often IELTS Academic)
- Visa and migration candidates (often IELTS General Training)
- Professionals proving English proficiency for licensing or employment
Which Topic to Read Next
A short, practical overview of what IELTS is for—why it exists, who owns it, and why institutions trust band scores for admissions and visas.
Learn how long IELTS scores are generally considered valid and what students should check before applying or re-testing.
Learn who should take IELTS Academic, what it includes, and how universities often use Academic scores.
Compare IELTS Academic and General Training by purpose, format, scoring, and which test is right for your goal.
Learn how IELTS administration works, including identity checks, procedures, and the policies that affect candidates.
See how IELTS band scores map to skill levels and why institutions use bands instead of percentages.
Understand the basic structure of IELTS, the four tested skills, the main test versions, and how band scores work.
Understand how IELTS fees vary by country and test type, what is usually included, and how to budget for rescheduling or retesting.
See how the IELTS is structured, including the listening, reading, writing, and speaking sections and how the format works.
Find out who should take IELTS General Training, how it differs from Academic, and where it is commonly used.
What the IELTS Life Skills test is, which UK visa routes use it, and how it differs from Academic and General Training—so you do not book the wrong exam.
Learn how IELTS Online works, what stays the same as test-centre delivery, and what candidates should check before booking.
Learn how IELTS registration works, how to choose a test date, what documents you need, and how to avoid booking mistakes.
Learn how to read IELTS score requirements for programs and visas, including overall bands and per-section minimums.
Understand IELTS band scores, how each section is assessed, and how schools and organizations interpret results.
Learn how to pick an IELTS test centre, what affects availability, and how location impacts scheduling and test-day logistics.
Prepare for IELTS test day with practical guidance on arrival time, ID requirements, allowed items, and test-centre rules.
Exam-day strategy for IELTS: time budgets per section, when to move on, and how to protect your speaking and writing band under stress.
How IELTS evolves over time—delivery modes, booking systems, and policy shifts—and why you should always verify rules before test day.
Compare IELTS and TOEFL by format, speaking style, scoring, and overall test experience to choose the right exam.
