IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

Overview

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is one of the most widely recognized English language proficiency tests for non-native English speakers. It assesses the language ability of individuals who aim to study or work in environments where English is used as the language of communication.

Sections

The IELTS test consists of four sections:

1. Listening: Assessing the ability to understand spoken English through a variety of recordings.
2. Reading: Evaluating reading comprehension skills through a range of texts, including newspapers, magazines, and academic materials.
3. Writing: Testing writing skills by requiring candidates to complete two writing tasks, one describing a chart or graph and the other presenting an argument or opinion.
4. Speaking: Assessing spoken English proficiency through a face-to-face interview with a certified examiner.

Scoring

The IELTS test is scored on a scale from 1 to 9, with each section receiving a band score. Overall band scores are calculated as the average of the four individual section scores.

Validity

IELTS scores are typically valid for two years from the test date, although some organizations may have their own requirements regarding score validity.