Why are there two versions of the IELTS test?

The IELTS Academic is an assessment to test if your English language skills meet international academic proficiency. In contrast, the IELTS General is an assessment to test if you possess adequate language skills for the workplace and social situations.

Is IELTS academic easier than IELTS general?

The English reading and writing sections for IELTS Academic are more advanced. Therefore, IELTS General is comparatively easier and more straightforward.

Which IELTS test should I do?

If you are planning to pursue an undergraduate or postgraduate course in an English-speaking environment, or migrate for professional registration, then you must take up the IELTS Academic test. If you are migrating to an English-speaking country or applying for secondary training programmes and work experience, you can opt for the IELTS General test.

What is the IELTS test format, and how long does it take?

The IELTS exam can be taken online (Computer Delivered Test) and offline (Paper-Based Test). Both the modes follow the same format. The listening and speaking sections are the same for both academic and general, while the writing and reading sections differ slightly. The total duration given to complete the test is 2 hours and 45 minutes.

Which IELTS is easier? IELTS paper-based test or Computer-delivered IELTS?

Both the paper-based test and the computer-delivered test are of the same difficulty level.

When can I take IELTS?

The IELTS exam is conducted several times throughout the year. The candidate can choose a date that fits their schedule.

How much does IELTS cost?

The registration fee to take up the IELTS examination is: CD IELTS Test Fee - LKR 37,800.00 PB IELTS Test Fee - LKR 37,800.00 UKVI Fee - LKR 43,300.00 UKVI LS Fee - LKR 30,300.00 *IELTS Fee is subject to change without prior notice.

Is there any dress code for the IELTS exam?

There are no restrictions on the dress code while taking the IELTS exam. The candidates can wear any attire they are comfortable in.

What is the procedure to cancel or postpone my application?

If a candidate wishes to change their test date, they can request to reschedule their exam date at least five weeks ahead of the previously booked test. The new date must be rescheduled within three months of the actual test date. For the process of rescheduling, the candidate will have to pay an administrative charge of $42 USD inclusive of all taxes. If a candidate cancels their IELTS application five weeks ahead of the test date, the candidate will receive a refund exclusive of a 25% administrative fee. However, if a candidate cancels their IELTS application less than five weeks ahead of the test date, no refund will be provided.

Abbreviation

International English Language Testing System

Essentials For

Study & Work Permit for Students

Test Mode

Computer & Paper Pen

Type of Test

English Proficiency Test

Website

https://www.ielts.org/

IELTS Exam Overview

IELTS Full-Form: International English Language Testing System

What is the IELTS Exam?

IELTS is an English language exam that must be taken by foreign applicants who want to study or work in a country where English is the primary language of communication. The UK, Australia, New Zealand, the United States, and Canada are the most common nations where IELTS is recognised for university applications. The exam primarily assesses the test-taker’s ability to communicate in the four core English language abilities of hearing, reading, speaking, and writing. IDP Education Australia and Cambridge English Language Assessment jointly own and administer the IELTS exam test.

The IELTS exam can be taken on a computer or on paper. Those who take the IELTS computer-based test do so for the Listening, Writing, and Reading portions. The Speaking test, on the other hand, is done in front of a qualified examiner.

With the computer-based IELTS, there are more test dates to select from, and results are available in 3-5 days.
Those who want to take the IELTS on paper will complete the Reading, Writing, and Listening parts on paper with HB pencils or pens.
The Speaking test, on the other hand, is done in front of a trained IELTS examiner.

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Information About IELTS Exam

The IELTS exam Srilanka is required for migration and academic reasons in English-speaking nations such as the UK, Australia, New Zealand, the United States, and Canada. It is the only English Language Test that UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) has authorised for visa applicants applying both within and outside the UK. Many students are perplexed as to why IELTS scores are necessary. The basic explanation is that foreign institutions and visa issuing agencies want to ensure that you will have no communication problems while in the country.

You must demonstrate an excellent comprehension and command of the English language, which is why your total IELTS score is so significant. Another prevalent misunderstanding among students is whether or not IELTS is a required exam. No, IELTS is not required for all university applications. Many institutions may not even require IELTS results for admission. However, keep in mind that if you do not take IELTS, your prospects of obtaining a student visa may decrease since visa authorities may not be convinced of your English competence in the absence of IELTS exam results. As a result, it is safer to take IELTS and strive for at least 6 bands overall.

You can take the IELTS exam once a week with the British Council or IDP (four times a month). The global timetable for the British Council and IDP test dates is 48 days each year.

Learn more about IELTS Exam Eligibility now.

What are the Types of IELTS Exam

IELTS examinations are divided into two types: Academic and General Training.

The listening and speaking portions are the same for both examinations; however, the subject matter for the writing and reading sections varies depending on which test is taken. The IELTS Reading, Writing, and Listening portions are all performed on the same day of the exam, with no interruptions in between. The Speaking component, on the other hand, can be performed either a week before or after the other examinations. This information exam is available at your testing centre.

Read: This test should I take for which subject if I want to study abroad?

The IELTS exam is divided into two sections:

IELTS Academic Test
IELTS General Test

IELTS Academic Test

Those applying for further education or professional registration in another country must take IELTS Academic.

IELTS General Test

The IELTS exam is given several times throughout the year. The candidate can select the most convenient day for them. To minimise delays in results, students who desire to apply to institutions overseas must take the exam at least 3 to 4 months before the university/college application deadline.

IELTS Test Types

The IELTS test is available both Online and Offline (Computer Delivered Test) (Paper-Based Test). The IELTS exam format is the same for both types. The listening and speaking parts for both academic and general are similar, but the writing and reading sections differ slightly.

IELTS Exam Dates 2023

The IELTS exam is given several times throughout the year. The candidate can select the most convenient day for them. To minimise delays in results, students who desire to apply to institutions overseas must take the exam at least 3 to 4 months before the university/college application deadline.

Get the IELTS Preparation Guidance and Syllabus today to prepare for the tests.

IELTS Exam Dates For April 2023

Test Type	Test Format	Test Dates
IELTS Academic	Computer-based	1,4,5,6,7,8,11,12,18,19,20,21,22,25,26,27,28,29
IELTS General Training	Computer-based	1,4,5,6,7,8,11,12,18,19,20,21,22,25,26,27,28,29
IELTS Academic	Paper-based	1,15,20,29
IELTS General Training	Paper-based	1,29

IELTS Exam Dates for May 2023

Test Type	Test Format	Test Dates
IELTS Academic	Computer-based	2,3,4,6,9,10,11,12,13,16,17,18,19,20,23,24,25,26,27,30,31
IELTS General Training	Computer-based	2,3,4,6,9,10,11,12,13,16,17,18,19,20,23,24,25,26,27,30,31
IELTS Academic	Paper-based	6,11,20,27
IELTS General Training	Paper-based	11,27

IELTS Exam Dates for June 2023

Test Type	Test Format	Test Dates
IELTS Academic	Computer-based	1,2,7,8,9,10,13,14,15,16,17,20,21,22,23,24,27,28,29
IELTS General Training	Computer-based	1,2,7,8,9,10,13,14,15,16,17,20,21,22,23,24,27,28,29
IELTS Academic	Paper-based	3,10,15,24
IELTS General Training	Paper-based	10,24

IELTS Exam Dates for July 2023

Test Type	Test Format	Test Dates
IELTS Academic	Computer-based	1,5,6,7,8,11,12,13,14,15,18,19,20,21,22,25,26,27,28,29
IELTS General Training	Computer-based	1,5,6,7,8,11,12,13,14,15,18,19,20,21,22,25,26,27,28,29
IELTS Academic	Paper-based	6,15,22,29
IELTS General Training	Paper-based	22,29

IELTS Exam Dates for August 2023

Test Type	Test Format	Test Dates
IELTS Academic	Computer-based	1
IELTS General Training	Computer-based	1
IELTS Academic	Paper-based	5,10,19,26
IELTS General Training	Paper-based	10,26

General Facts - IELTS Exam

Date and Periodicity

Admit Card and Center

Denouement

Reporting of Scores

Validity of Scores

IELTS test dates are available up to four times every month, for a total of 48 scheduled test days in a calendar year.

There are 14 centres in Sri Lanka that provide IELTS exams (paper-based or computer-delivered) please select an appropriate test centre that is most suitable for your test based on test availability.

IELTS exam results are issued 13 calendar days after the paper-based examination and 5-7 calendar days after the computer-based test. Only ONE original Test Report Form will be sent to the applicant.

Within one month of completing the IELTS exam, an applicant may request up to five extra TRFs to be forwarded to Receiving Institutions. TRFs supplied through courier will be delivered and students will be charged appropriately.

Upto 2 Years

How Can I Register for the IELTS Exam?

Keep your passport with you at all times throughout registration since you will need your passport number. Aside from that, you must bring your passport with you on the exam day. IELTS registration may be completed in three simple steps:

Step 1

To begin, go to the official British Council registration website.

Step 2

Sign up for a British Council account.

Step 3

Locate the nearest testing facility.

Step 4

Register for and pay for the IELTS exam online.

Step 5

Find the preferred PTE exam appointment.

Mention the preferred city and nearby test centres along with the available PTE exam dates and time slots.

Step 6

Those under the age of 18 must have their parent or guardian book the exam on their behalf.

Once your registration is complete, your test centre will give you a written confirmation with the date and time of your IELTS exam.

IELTS Cancellation Policy

You will receive a refund less a 25% administrative charge if you cancel your IELTS application more than five weeks before the test date.
If you cancel your IELTS exam fewer than five weeks before the test date, you will not be refunded.
If you do not show up for the exam, you will not be refunded. This is also regarded as a cancellation.

Those who can provide a medical certificate within 5 days of the test date will be eligible for a refund less the local administration fee.

IELTS Tests Type	Fee in LKR
IELTS Academic - in centre (on paper or on computer)	LKR 50,000
IELTS General Training - in centre (on paper or on computer)	LKR 50,000
IELTS Academic for UKVI - in centre (on paper or on computer)	LKR 59,000
IELTS General Training for UKVI - in centre (on paper or on computer)	LKR 59,000
IELTS Life Skills (A1 and B1) - in centre (on paper)	LKR 41,000

IELTS Scholarships for International Students

One of the most significant disadvantages of studying abroad is having to pay tuition in foreign currency in addition to hefty living expenses. As a result of such factors, many students are unable to travel overseas and must settle for other options. On the other hand, students may fully realise their ambition thanks to the availability of several IELTS Scholarships and education loans. Scholarships, as well as other fellowships and scholarships, are accessible on the official website of each college and are granted to worthy students regularly. Students can also obtain education loans from financial entities to study abroad.

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IELTS Exam FAQs for International Students

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a standardised and widely recognised English language assessment that evaluates the English language proficiency of non-native English speakers who wish to study or migrate to an English-speaking country.