The International English Language Testing System tests candidates based on four sections, Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The exam is in two formats, namely academics and IELTS General Training Test, and different universities and institute values each, so check the requirements in advance.
IELTS General Training is for candidates planning to migrate to a significant English speaking nation. Professional organizations are also offering employment to candidates whose native language is not English through IELTS. Before preparing for the test, always check for the latest exam pattern for IELTS Exam 2020. This exam is conducted by ETS, Education Testing Service, across the world and is accepted by more than 10,000 educational institutes in more than 150 countries.
Sectioned IELTS Test Pattern
| Section | Duration | IELTS Academic | No. of Questions per section |
|---|---|---|---|
| Listening | 30 min | It comprehends four recorded monologue and conversations | 4 |
| Reading | 60 min | Three long reading passages with questions. Texts range from descriptive and factual to discursive, and analytical includes non-verbal material like diagrams, graphs, and illustrations texts are authentic (taken from books, journals, and newspapers) | 40 |
| Writing | 60 min | A writing task of 150 words. Candidates must summarize, describe or explain table, graph, chart or diagram, and another short essay task of at least 250 words. | 2 |
| Speaking | 11 to 14 min | The face-to-face interview includes short questions, speaking at length about a familiar topic and a structured discussion | 3 |
The complete test duration for the IELTS exam is 2 hours and 45 minutes, which includes all the four sections, Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
- Listening:You will be given a total of 30 minutes to finish this section, which is divided into four parts. Candidates have to listen to different pieces of audio recording and answer based on it.
- Reading:The reading section encompasses three sections of general interest that deals with issues that relate to candidates pursuing postgraduate or undergraduate program. A total of 30 minutes will be provided for 40 questions in this section.
- Writing: In this section, candidates have to explain given data, table, or charts in their own words and are expected to write essay type 2 questions of about 250 words. The total time allotted for this section is 60 minutes.
- Speaking:The total time given for this section varies from 11 to 14 minutes, and candidates also have to attend a face-to-face interview. Candidates will be assessed on their ability to communicate effectively in the country where they have applied.
