What is IELTS?

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is designed to help you work, study or migrate to a country where English is the native language. This includes countries such as Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK and USA.

Your ability to listen, read, write and speak in English will be assessed during the test. IELTS is graded on a scale of 1-9.

IELTS is jointly owned by the British Council; IDP IELTS; and Cambridge University Press & Assessment.

Why take IELTS?

High level of English language ability is essential for success in an English-speaking country.

English is the third most spoken language in the world, with 359 million speakers worldwide.

Communication in the native language is essential for job opportunities and integration into the community.

IELTS is the most popular test for those looking to migrate to Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the UK. It is globally recognised by more than 12,000 employers, universities.

IELTS score scale

Score	Skill level	Description
9	Expert user	Test takers are accurate and fluent, demonstrating complete understanding of the language.
8	Very good user	Test takers have good command of language, but may misunderstand in unfamiliar situations.
7	Good user	You have an operational command of language, but may have occasional inaccuracies, inappropriate usage and misunderstandings.
6	Competent user	You have an effective command of language despite inaccuracies, inappropriate usage and misunderstandings.
5	Modest user	Test takers should have a partial command of the language and be able to handle basic communication in their own field.
4	Limited user	Your basic competence is limited to familiar situations, and you lack the ability to use complex language.
3	Extremely limited user	You convey and understand only general meaning in very familiar situations. There are frequent breakdowns in communication.
2	Intermittent user	You have great difficulty understanding spoken and written English.
1	Non-user	You have no ability to use the language except a few isolated words.
0	Did not attempt the test	The test taker did not answer the questions.

What IELTS score do I need?

The higher the score in your IELTS, the better understanding and ability to communicate in English. Each immigration body, university, workplace or institution will have specific IELTS score requirements, depending on the job you are looking to do.