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IELTS 2023: Dates, Registration, Pattern, Score Validity, and Sample Papers

OverviewOverview Esexam dates esIELTS Exam DatesIELTS ResultsIELTS RESULT ESIELTS Writing Task 2IELTS ReadingIELTS Speaking TopicsIELTS PreparationIELTS ListeningIELTS Exam PatternIELTS Practice PapersIELTS Coaching in IndiaIELTS CutoffNewsQ&A
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Sayantani Barman

Experta en el extranjero | Updated On - Nov 28, 2023

IELTS is an English language proficiency test that is widely accepted by over 3000 universities worldwide for the purpose of migration or higher education in countries like UK, USA, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia. It is available in two formats: IELTS Academic and IELTS General. To register for IELTS, candidates need to select a suitable test center and date. The exam fee for pen and paper based IELTS is INR 16,250. The total duration of the test is 2 hours and 45 minutes. Candidates can take the test up to four times a month. The IELTS score is usually available within 2-5 days after the test.

Recent Updates in IELTS

  • Due to the pandemic. IELTS indicator is introduced for the aspirants.
  • IDP is going to administer IELTS exam in India
  • IELTS Exam fees revised to INR 15,500
  • IELTS exam booking has grown up by 10-15% post-Covid
  • IELTS Coaching registration has gone up by 56% in tier-II cities.
  • IELTS test centers have increased to 74 locations across India

Why IELTS is Required?

The IELTS test is necessary to evaluate an individual's proficiency in English for the purpose of education, migration, or employment. IELTS score is widely recognized by over 11,000 employers, universities, and government immigration authorities globally. English-speaking countries such as the UK, Canada, the USA, and New Zealand prioritize practical communication skills. The advantages of taking the IELTS test include access to international job opportunities, higher education programs abroad, and eligibility for immigration and permanent residency.

Which Test should I take?

There are two distinct versions of IELTS: IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training, each serving a specific purpose. While the Listening and Speaking sections of both tests are identical, the Reading and Writing sections differ. The IELTS Academic test is intended for individuals seeking higher education or professional certification in an English-speaking country, with most academic institutions accepting IELTS Academic scores. On the other hand, the IELTS General Training test is primarily taken by candidates who wish to migrate or work in English-speaking countries such as Australia, Canada, and the UK, with a focus on the skills required to succeed in the workplace.

IELTS Highlights        

IELTS Full Form International English Language Testing System
Official Website of IELTS https://www.ielts.org/
Accepted By More than 10,000 universities
Conducted By IDP and British Council
Mode of IELTS Paper and Computer Delivered Test
IELTS Exam Fee INR 15,500
IELTS Score Range 1-9
IELTS Conducting Body Contact IDP Head Office – 01244445999
Email – ielts.india@idp.co
British Council Office – 01204569000
Email – examscustomercare@britishcouncil.org

IELTS Eligibility

Candidates can take IELTS irrespective of age, nationality, or race. Few IELTS eligibility criteria are mentioned in the table given below:

IELTS Eligibility Criteria Not Specific
Minimum Age 16
ID Proof Valid Passport
IELTS Eligible Countries UK, USA, Canada, New Zealand and Australia
Minimum Score 5.5 Each Band Score(Varies from universities to universities)

Check: IELTS Actual Test ebooks Combo

IELTS Registration

Candidates can make IELTS registration online or can visit the nearest IDP office to register offline. With 80 IELTS test centers located across India, test-takers can choose the test center's location which is easily accessible. IDP IELTS does not have any specific IELTS eligibility criteria. It can be taken by any individual irrespective of gender, age, race, religion, or nationality. Anyone below 16 years of age is not allowed for IELTS. The steps for IELTS registration for both online and offline mode is explained below:

IELTS Online Registration

Now registering for IELTS is easy and quick. There are three stages to book for the IELTS test. Candidates have to visit the official website for IELTS registration, and then:

  • Create an account
  • Find out a suitable date slot as per the availability at the nearest IELTS test centers
  • Complete the registration by paying online

IELTS Offline Registration

Candidates have to download the IELTS exam registration form from the official portal. Manually select the test date and fill in other IELTS requirements asked in the form. Next, the candidate has to pay by demand draft  (demand draft must be drawn in favor of "IDP EDUCATION INDIA PRIVATE LIMITED, Payable at New Delhi") or by cash (to pay cash to visit the nearest ICICI bank with a payment slip). The candidate has to provide Blue Dart courier serviceable address on the registration form.

IELTS Exam Fees 

Candidates can pay IELTS exam Fees online through net banking or offline by paying the amount at ICICI bank. Before paying the amount, candidates must look for cancellation, and rescheduling fees as well. IELTS exam Fees can be paid by using a Credit or Debit card (Visa or Mastercard), Netbanking, or Demand Draft.

IELTS Exam Fees Amount
Computer Delivered IELTS for UKVI INR 16,500
Computer Delivered IELTS INR 16,250
IELTS Life Skills(A1 and B1) INR 15,350
IELTS UK Visas and Immigration INR 16,500
Pen and Paper Based IELTS INR 16,250
IELTS Cancellation Charge 25% of test fee
IELTS Rescheduling Fee INR 3312
IELTS Test Center Change Fee INR 3312
IELTS Rechecking Fees INR 8475
IELTS Score Sending Fee INR 250 (Per University)

IELTS Exam Dates 

IELTS exam dates are available every month for international students four times. Annually there are 48 dates for IELTS and the booking depends on availability. The candidate can take the IELTS exam dates on 48 different days for the Academic section and 24 dates for the General Training section. Candidates are advised to book for IELTS at least 3-4 months before the application deadline. Candidates can book IELTS exam dates through 3 different portals- British Council, IDP, or IELTS (official website). Follow the below table for test dates in 2023:   

IELTS Exam Dates 2023

Month (2023)

IELTS Test Date

April

Thursday, 20 April 2023, Academic only

Saturday, 29 April 2023, Academic and General Training

May

Saturday, 6 May 2023, Academic only

Thursday, 11 May 2023, Academic and General Training

Saturday, 20 May 2023, Academic only

Saturday, 27 May 2023, Academic and General Training

June

Saturday, 3 June 2023, Academic only

Saturday, 10 June 2023, Academic and General Training

Thursday, 15 June 2023, Academic only

Saturday, 24 June 2023, Academic and General Training

July

Thursday, 6 July 2023, Academic only

Saturday, 15 July 2023, Academic only

Saturday, 22 July 2023, Academic and General Training

Saturday, 29 July 2023, Academic and General Training

August

Saturday, 5 August 2023, Academic only

Thursday, 10 August 2023, Academic and General Training

Saturday, 19 August 2023, Academic only

Saturday, 26 August 2023, Academic and General Training

September

Saturday, 2 September 2023, Academic only

Saturday, 9 September 2023, Academic and General Training

Thursday, 14 September 2023, Academic only

Saturday, 23 September 2023, Academic and General Training

October

Saturday, 7 October 2023, Academic and General Training

Thursday, 12 October 2023, Academic only

Saturday, 21 October 2023, Academic only

Saturday, 28 October 2023, Academic and General Training

November

Saturday, 4 November 2023, Academic only

Thursday, 9 November 2023, Academic and General Training

Saturday, 18 November 2023, Academic only

Saturday, 25 November 2023, Academic and General Training

December

Saturday, 2 December 2023, Academic and General Training

Thursday, 7 December 2023, Academic only

Saturday, 9 December 2023, Academic only

Saturday, 16 December 2023, Academic and General Training

IELTS Exam Pattern and Syllabus

The IELTS exam pattern comprises four sections - Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking. IELTS Reading, Writing, and Listening sections are completed on the same day and IELTS Speaking can be scheduled up to a week before or after other tests. 

IELTS Exam Pattern

In IELTS Speaking, candidates are assessed in three different parts and each part is recorded. The total duration for this section is 11-14 minutes.

IELTS Speaking Practice Papers – Check

In IELTS Listening, candidates have to listen to four recordings of native English speakers to answer a series of questions. The total duration for this section is 30 minutes.

IELTS Listening Practice Papers – Check 

Candidates get two different kinds of IELTS Reading questions for IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training. In both exam patterns, test takers have to attempt 40 questions in 60 minutes.

IELTS Reading Practice Papers – Check 

IELTS Writing is different for candidates appearing in IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training. Two writing tasks have to be attempted within 60 minutes for the IELTS Writing section. In IELTS Writing task 1, candidates will have to explain and analyze the graphical representation presented in the form of a bar graph, chart, pie, or line graph. For IELTS Writing Task 2, an essay has to be written expressing one’s own opinion. For both IELTS Academic and General Training IELTS, Writing task 2 remains the same. IELTS Writing task 1 for General IELTS is slightly different as the candidates have to write a formal or semi-formal letter addressing an issue.
IELTS Writing Practice Papers  – Check

What is the Ideal Time to take IELTS?

The best time to take the IELTS is right before the topics change, namely in the months of December, April, and August. IELTS speaking topics are added in January, May, and September. By this time, the candidate will be aware of 99.9% of the topics that will eventually help them take the exam. Additionally, candidates should also note the application deadlines of their selected universities and colleges.

IELTS Score 

IELTS scores are designed to be deciphered easily by any individual. IELTS score validity is for 2 years. As IDP IELTS collected data from the test-takers and analyzed that irrespective of gender, candidates score the most in listening and least in writing. Since childhood, in India, one starts learning English by listening to an electronic medium, therefore it is quite easy to analyze an argument by listening to the recordings present in the test.

Academic test takers

Whereas the least score-secured section is writing. The least marks are secured in writing for a lack of language construction and grammatical errors. Candidates should start practicing writing within a particular time to improve all these mistakes. As compared to other bands, the Writing band has the least score range for both male and female candidates. IELTS band scores are calculated on a scale of 1-9.                                                                                                                                                                         

Band Score Skill Level Description
9 Expert user The test taker has a fully operational command of the language. Their use of English is appropriate, accurate, and fluent, and shows complete understanding.
8 Very good user The test taker has a fully operational command of the language with only occasional unsystematic inaccuracies and inappropriate usage. They may misunderstand some things in unfamiliar situations. They handle complex and detailed argumentation well.
7 Good user The test taker has operational command of the language, though with occasional inaccuracies, inappropriate usage, and misunderstandings in some situations. They generally handle complex language well and understand detailed reasoning.
6 Competent user The test taker has an effective command of the language despite some inaccuracies, inappropriate usage, and misunderstandings. They can use and understand fairly complex language, particularly in familiar situations.
5 Modest user The test taker has partial command of the language and copes with overall meaning in most situations, although they are likely to make many mistakes. They should be able to handle basic communication in their field.
4 Limited user The test taker's basic competence is limited to familiar situations. They frequently show problems in understanding and expression. They are not able to use complex language.
3 Extremely limited user The test taker conveys and understands the only general meaning in very familiar situations. There are frequent breakdowns in communication.
2 Intermittent user The test taker has great difficulty understanding spoken and written English.
1 Non-user The test taker cannot use the language except for a few isolated words.

What is a Good Score for IELTS?

Generally, an IELTS score of 7 and above is considered a good score for ensuring admission to the top-ranking universities in the UK, US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and other English-speaking nations. The IELTS cutoff is set differently for each of the four sections, therefore, candidates need to focus more on improving each of the skills rather than the overall IELTS score. 

IELTS Result 

The test Report Form or IELTS Result will be declared 13 days after the test is taken. Candidates can access IELTS scorecards online as well as offline. To access the IELTS score, a candidate has to submit an identification document number. Along with ID proof, the candidate also has to provide a candidate number generated during the IELTS application. IELTS exam dates and date of birth are other required information. Results will also be available on IDP or British Council IELTS website. If the candidates have applied for Citizenship and Immigration Canada, 2 copies of the IELTS TRF (Test Result Form) will be provided. The online results will be displayed only for 28 days from your test date.

IELTS Cutoff 

IELTS Cutoff generally ranges between 7- 8 for the top universities. Universities have a pre-determined sectional cutoff for each of the sections of the IELTS syllabus. Harvard, Stanford, MIT, California Institute of Technology, and other top-ranking universities across the world require IELTS scores above 7.  The following table shows the IELTS cutoff for the top universities in the world:                                                                                                 

Name of the Institution IELTS CutOff
MIT 7.0
Stanford University 7.0
Harvard University 7.0
California Institute of Technology 6.5
University of Oxford 7.0 with 6.5 in each band
Eth Zurich 7.0
University of Cambridge 7.0 with 7.-0 in each band
Imperial College London 6.5 with 5.5 in each band
University of Chicago 7.0
UCL 7.5

IELTS Cutoff for Countries

Depending on the country, the IELTS band score differs based on the requirement of whether the candidates want to migrate or study. The following table shows the minimum IELTS band requirement for different countries                                                                                                                                

IELTS Scholarships 

British Council introduces IELTS Scholarship for Indian students to provide financial aid for studying abroad. As per British Council, the IELTS Test Fee Scholarship includes full fee payment of an IELTS exam, AEO, or any other IELTS test-taking organization rates. To avail of the scholarship, candidates must have 6.5 scores on each band and an offer letter from UK universities. Students can also get an overview idea about the IELTS Scholarship and fellowships available for Indian students at the official website of the universities. An amount of about 3000 GBP to 10000 GBP is offered to the candidates scoring a minimum of 6.5 band score by the British Council. 

IELTS Preparation Tips

Many times, aspirants do not get a hold of the right practice paper and study materials. Most resources and practice materials are available online for IELTS preparation. Candidates can also take IELTS preparation courses available in both classroom and online models. Test-takers can install IELTS Preparation Online apps for easy access to the study materials. Many institutes like IELTS IDP and IELTS LIZ offer IELTS mock tests at affordable prices for practice. Few IELTS preparation tips are as follows:

  • Learn new words for understanding vocabulary
  • Read English books, magazines, newspapers, and handbooks for a strong grasp of the language
  • Practice writing following a strict schedule
  • Under strict time scheduling, the test taker can improve their writing speed
  • Make an accurate usage of grammar
  • For fluency in the language, start talking in front of the mirror
  • Focus on pronunciation for a proper understanding of words
  • Try to balance between listening and scanning questions
  • On the test, day try to stay calm and relax
  • Do not rush and focus on answers

Besides these preparation tips, test takers should start taking IELTS mock tests as diagnostic tests. Every year, lakhs of international students take IELTS for pursuing either higher education or employment opportunities. Therefore learning the proper language (English) is a step taken.

IELTS Preparation Books 

IELTS preparation books and study materials are always good sources of preparatory materials for IELTS test-takers. Few IELTS preparation books comprise the best possible materials and practice papers for the candidates. These books will help you have a better understanding of the exam pattern and achieve a high score. Here is the list of a few books with PDFs to help you further:

  • The Official Cambridge Guide to IELTS – Check PDF
  • Cambridge IELTS’ Book 14 for Academic with Answers – Check PDF
  • Official IELTS Practice Materials – Check PDF
  • Barron’s IELTS Superpack – Check PDF

IELTS Sample Papers 

To score good marks in IELTS, it is necessary to practice IELTS practice papers regularly. Time management is one of the most important things to look after. These sample papers are available on the official website of IELTS as well as the websites of IDP and the British Council.

IELTS Writing Samples             

IELTS Reading Samples

IELTS Speaking Samples                                                                                                                                                             

IELTS FAQs

Question. Which test should I give if planning to pursue MBA overseas?

Answer. You need to give IELTS Academic test in case planning to pursue higher studies in an English native country. Since individual organizations have different requirements, it is advisable to check IELTS requirements for the international students at the university to which you are applying.

Question. Is this test available for the test takers who have visual, hearing, speaking, or learning difficulties?

Answer. Students with disabilities can get assistance at the official IELTS test centers. You need to inform you about it at the center so that special arrangements can be made for you.

Question: Is there any age limit of taking IELTS?

Answer: IELTS Test is not recommended for candidates under 16 years. However, if a candidate under 16 years wish to take the test, they may.

Question. Can I postpone or cancel my application?

Answer. You will get a complete refund, in case you have postponed or canceled your application 5 weeks before the test date. But in case you make cancellations within 5 weeks of the test date, you will be charged the full fee unless you have a medical reason.

Question. What will happen in case I am absent or sick on the test day?

Answer. In case you are absent on the test day without any prior notice, then you will not get any refund.

Question. Which part do I need to attempt first?

Answer. The candidates will be asked to give the Listening test first, which is followed by the Reading and Writing tests. The speaking test will be conducted some other day.

Question. What kinds of accents will I hear in the Listening and Speaking tests?'

Answer. Since IELTS is an international test, you can hear a combination of a variety of English accents during your tests.

Question. What do I need to carry for the Speaking test?

Answer. You have to bring the same ID documents which you have submitted with your IELTS Application Form and used for the rest of the test. Your ID will be cross-checked by the examiner at the time you enter the interview room.

Question. What happens in case I misplace the Test Report Form?

Answer. Test Report Forms are valid for two years, but you will not get a copy of your test score. Your Test Report Form of IELTS will be forwarded directly to the relevant institution or embassy. You can get up to five copies free of charge but additional copies carry small administration charges.

Question. Do I need to pay something if asking for re-checking?

Answer. Yes, there is a charge for an inquiry on IELTS test results. However, the amount will be refunded in case there is an increase in your score for any section of the test.

Question. When will I get the new results?

Answer. Your result will be made available to you within 2-21 days, depending upon several factors like the number of sections requested for re-marking, etc.

Question. Is 7 a good IELTS score?

Answer. Band 7 in IELTS implies Good user. Test-takers usually aim for a 7-band score to get admission to top-tier colleges. But it would be realistic to aim for 6.5 band score as the weaker areas can be fixed and candiadtes tend to have good vocabulary and grammar overall.

Question. What if I am not able to reach the exam center for the reason beyond my control?'

Answer. You can apply for the IELTS exam again according to the next available test date.

Question. How can I improve my chances of scoring high in the exam?

Answer. You must practice your English every day and listening to many other native speakers accents will help you a lot in pronouncing difficult words.

Question. Is it possible that my second-time score is higher than the first attempt?

Answer. Yes, it is possible. Many people score higher on their second sitting as they understand the exam pattern and know how the exam can be finished within the allotted time.

Question. Can the IELTS test result be used at the time of applying for a UK visa?

Answer. In case you wish to use an IELTS or IELTS Life Skills test result as a part of your application for UK visa purposes, then you must take the test at an IELTS test center which is specifically authorized by UK Visas and Immigration for this purpose.

Question. How often is an IELTS or IELTS Life Skills test available?

Answer. For IELTS and IELTS Life Skills, the dates of the test will be available within 28 days of booking your test.

Question. Do non-native countries also accept IELTS scores?

Answer. There are more than 140 countries that accept the IELTS score, English speaking countries such as the UK, US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand accept the IELTS score. Besides many non-English speaking countries as well accept IELTS scores while giving admission to students in different colleges and universities where the medium of education is English.

Question. What things are allowed inside the test center?

Answer. You can only carry pens, pencils, and erasers. You need to carry the passport/national identity card you used on the IELTS Application Form to the test. Mobile phones, pagers, and other kinds of electronic devices must be switched off and kept in the area designated by the supervisor.

Question. Can I take IELTS during COVID-19?

Answer. IELTS is suspended in some locations due to the Covid-19 outbreak; however, the conducting authority allows the candidates to take the IELTS indicator test right now, as most of the test centers are closed. This can help the candidates for a solid preparation for IELTS.

Question. Will the content of the ILETS indicator be identical to the contents of IELTS?

Answer. Basically yes, there will be the same level of difficulty and the same question pattern will be followed in the questions of the IELTS indicator. IELTS indicator will be just like the IELTS itself – the only difference is the candidates will take it from their homes.

Question. What about the Refund If I Cancel IELTS during Covid-19?

Answer. There is a possibility that the candidates may not get a chance to reschedule their exams. In that case, a refund of their exam fees will be processed. The candidates need to send a mail to examscustomercare@britishcouncil.org and follow the instructions regarding the refund.

Question. What will be the guidelines for the IELTS speaking test amidst COVID-19?

Answer. The staff will be given a facemask on the day and test-takers or the examiners will not be permitted to remove the masks even during the IELTS speaking.

Question. What are the safety measures for the test day?

Answer. The conducting authority ensures health checks on the test day. Candidates need to wear a mask and maintain a minimum 2-meter distance with examiners and the test-takers in the test center.

Question.  What to do if my quarantine period is over before the exam date?

Answer. You have to show proper medical documents proving the same. Also, the authority may require you to sign a declaration form as well. A test will be done to ensure you are not infected during the test day before allowing you in the test center.

*The article might have information for the previous academic years, please refer the official website of the exam.

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