If you are a non-native English language speaker, chances are you will need to do some kind of English language proficiency test when entering university. The most widely used English language proficiency test is the IELTS (International English Language Testing System). But what exactly is the IELTS, and what is the level of difficulty for this exam?

Understanding the IELTS

The IELTS is a standardized test designed to assess the English language proficiency of non-native English speakers. It's accepted by over 10,000 organizations worldwide, including universities, employers, immigration authorities, and professional bodies. The test assesses your listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills, providing an all-inclusive measure of your ability to communicate effectively in English.

Test Structure and Scoring

The IELTS contains four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Each section is designed to evaluate different language skills:

• Listening: You'll listen to recordings of native English speakers and answer questions based on the recording.

• Reading: You'll read a variety of texts and answer comprehension questions.

• Writing: You'll complete two writing tasks: one describing a graph, table, or chart, and one essay on a given topic.

• Speaking: You'll participate in a face-to-face interview with a certified examiner, discussing familiar topics and expressing your opinions.

Scores are reported on a scale from 0 to 9, with each section receiving a separate score. Overall band scores are calculated by averaging the four individual scores.

How Difficult is IELTS?

The IELTS is well-known for its challenging nature, testing students’ ability to comprehend complex texts, articulate thoughts clearly in writing, and communicate fluently in spoken English. Unlike traditional high school exams, the IELTS requires students to demonstrate proficiency across a range of real-world situations, making it a true test of English language proficiency.

Remember that difficulty level is subjective and depends on the student’s level of proficiency in the English language. A well-read and fluent English language speaker may find the test manageable and score well, while a more hesitant speaker may find difficulty; especially with the Writing and Speaking sections.

What is a good IELTS score?

For many higher learning institutions, a band score of 6.5 or above is considered satisfactory. However, what is considered a "good" band score can vary depending on individual goals and circumstances. Generally, a higher band score, such as 7 or above, may open up more opportunities. It's essential for students to research the specific band score requirements of their university of choice to determine what qualifies as a good score for their purpose.

Do I Need to Study for IELTS?

Studying for the IELTS exam is highly recommended for most students, as it helps familiarize them with the test format, timing, and types of questions they will encounter. Preparation also allows students to enhance their English language skills and become more comfortable with the exam content. While the difficulty level of the exam can vary depending on a student's level of proficiency in English, studying helps ensure that students are adequately prepared to demonstrate their abilities and achieve their desired band score. Therefore, dedicating time to study for the IELTS exam is generally considered beneficial for achieving success.

In Conclusion

Preparing for the IELTS can be an intimidating task, but with the right resources and practice, success is within reach. Achieving a high score on the IELTS can be the key to unlocking your dreams of studying at your chosen university.

Are you confused about the difference between IELTS and TOEFL? Read more in our article.

Ready to start your IELTS preparation journey? Show those examiners what you’re made of with the guidance of our IELTS coaches! You can take just a few lessons to familiarize yourself with the test and be better prepared, or you can book blocks of lessons to improve your English skills and get the best score possible.

Ready to register for IELTS? Contact a local test center to book your exam. Check the official IELTS portal to find a local test center.