International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
IELTS Academic Module
Overview
The IELTS Academic module is designed for individuals who are planning to pursue higher education or professional registration in an English-speaking environment. This module assesses whether a candidate is ready to begin studying or training in an academic context, where the medium of instruction is English.
Who Should Take the IELTS Academic?
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University or College Students: Those applying for undergraduate or postgraduate programs.
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Professionals: Individuals seeking professional registration in fields like medicine, nursing, law, or engineering.
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Academic Researchers: Scholars intending to publish or present papers in English-speaking settings.
Test Format
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Listening (30 minutes): Four recorded monologues and conversations.
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Reading (60 minutes): Three long texts that range from descriptive and factual to discursive and analytical, sourced from books, journals, magazines, and newspapers.
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Writing (60 minutes): Two tasks:
- Task 1: Describe a visual (graph, chart, table, or diagram) in at least 150 words.
- Task 2: Respond to an argument or problem in an essay format of at least 250 words. -
Speaking (11-14 minutes): A face-to-face interview that assesses general speaking skills.
Scoring
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The IELTS Academic module is scored on a 9-band scale. A higher score indicates a better command of the English language. Most universities and professional bodies require a minimum band score ranging from 6.0 to 7.5.
IELTS General Training Module
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The IELTS General Training module is intended for those who are planning to work, migrate, or study at a secondary education level in an English-speaking country. It evaluates the everyday language skills needed in social and workplace contexts.
Who Should Take the IELTS General Training?
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Immigrants: Individuals seeking permanent residency or citizenship in countries like the UK, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand.
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Workers: Professionals looking to work or train in English-speaking environments below the degree level.
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Students: Those applying to study at the secondary education level or participate in work-related training programs.
Test Format
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Listening (30 minutes): Four recorded monologues and conversations.
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Reading (60 minutes): Three sections with a mix of texts from everyday life, such as advertisements, official documents, and work-related content.
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Writing (60 minutes): Two tasks:
- Task 1: Write a letter requesting information or explaining a situation in at least 150 words.
- Task 2: Write an essay in response to a point of view, argument, or problem in at least 250 words. -
Speaking (11-14 minutes): A face-to-face interview that assesses general speaking skills.
Scoring
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Similar to the Academic module, the General Training module is also scored on a 9-band scale. Immigration and work requirements usually ask for a band score between 4.0 and 7.0, depending on the country and specific visa category.
Key Differences
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Reading and Writing: The Academic module focuses more on academic and professional contexts, while the General Training module emphasizes everyday situations.
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Purpose: The Academic module is for higher education and professional registration, while the General Training module is aimed at those entering secondary education, vocational training, or migrating to an English-speaking country.
