IELTS - 2025
Test Format :
Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking
Duration :
3 Hours (Approximately)
Mode :
Paper-Based/ Computer Delivered

Last updated - 19 October '24
IELTS Overview
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a widely accepted assessment of English language proficiency. For over three decades, it has been trusted by more than 12,000 organizations and individuals worldwide for academic, professional, and personal use.
Ways To Take IELTS
IELTS in Test Centre
- IELTS on paper : The exam is conducted using pen and paper at an Authorized Testing Centre and evaluates listening, reading, and writing skills. The results are available 13 days after the test date.
- IELTS on computer : The IELTS test is conducted on a computer at an authorized testing center. While the Listening, Reading, and Writing sections are completed digitally, the Speaking section is carried out in person with a certified IELTS examiner. Test results are typically available within 3 to 5 days after the exam.
IELTS Online
- The test is conducted online from home, maintaining the same format, question types, duration, and grading standards. Results are typically available within 6 to 8 days after the exam.
Types Of IELTS Exam
Exam Type | Purpose |
---|---|
IELTS Academic | For undergraduate and postgraduate students |
IELTS General | For vocational studies or immigration |
IELTS for Life Skills | For immigration application |
IELTS for UKVI | Recognised by UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI) |
IELTS Pattern
Paper-based (PB)/ Computer Based (CB)
IELTS consist of four components
IELTS consist of four components:
Sections | Format |
---|---|
Listening 4 parts, 40 questions PB- 40 minutes and CB- approximately 30 minutes |
|
Academic Reading 3 passages, 40 questions 60 minutes |
General Training Reading 3 sections, 40 questions 60 minutes |
Academic Reading 2 tasks 60 minutes |
General Training Reading 2 tasks 60 minutes |
Speaking 3 parts, 11 to 14 minutes |
|
Total Test Time 2 hours 45 minutes |
IELTS Syllabus
Listening :
- Candidates hear the recording only once and answer the questions as they listen.
- In Paper Based format, test-takers have 10 minutes to transfer their answers to the main answer sheet.
- In Computer Based format, they have two minutes to review their answers after finishing the listening test.
Reading :
- A variety of questions are used, including: Multiple Choice Questions, matching heading/information/sentence endings/features, completion of sentence/table/note/summary/Flow chart / Diagrams, and short-answer type of questions.
Writing :
Academic Module :
- Task 1 is primarily Report Writing (explaining diagrams and charts).
Students are required to write at least 150 words. - Task 2 is Essay Writing (Discuss on a viewpoint/debate on a topic/problem)
Students are required to write at least 250 words.
General Training Module :
- It also has 2 writing tasks.
- Task 1 presents a Letter Prompt (formal or informal). Students must write at least 150 words for the same.
- Task 2 is same as that of Academic Module.
Speaking :
It is conducted by a trained examiner. This is usually done on another day.
- Part1: Examiner asks questions to the student about his/her work, studies, hobbies etc.
- Part2: The candidate gets 1 minute to prepare and speak on a given topic.
- Part3: It's a mutual discussion with the examiner.
IELTS Scoring
- IELTS is graded on a scale of 0 - 9, known as Band Scale.
- Test Report Form has the test taker's overall score as well as scores for the Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
- Generally, a score of at least 6 bands for UG and 6.5 bands for PG is required in each section.