Frequently Asked Questions about IELTS

In these frequently asked questions about IELTS, we focus on 10 of the most common questions that candidates ask about the test.

1. What’s the difference between the IELTS Academic and General Training tests?

Answer:

• IELTS Academic is for those applying for higher education or professional registration (e.g., doctors, nurses).
• IELTS General Training is for migration purposes or work experience in English-speaking countries.

The Listening and Speaking sections are the same in both; only the Reading and Writing sections differ.

2. How is the IELTS scored, and what is a good band score?

Answer:

IELTS scores range from Band 1 (non-user) to Band 9 (expert user). Each section (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking) is scored separately, and the average of the four gives your overall band score.

• Band 6–7.5 is often the minimum for university admission.
• Band 8+ is usually required for highly competitive programs or professional registration.
• A “good” score depends on your goal — check with the institution or agency.

3. How long is the IELTS test valid?

Answer:

Your IELTS result is valid for 2 years from the test date. After that, it may not be accepted by organisations or immigration offices.

4. Should I take the IELTS on paper or computer?

Answer:

Both formats are accepted equally. Choose based on preference:

• Computer-based IELTS: More test dates, faster results (3–5 days); easier typing for some.
• Paper-based IELTS: Familiar for those used to handwriting.
• Speaking is in person for both formats.

5. How can I improve my Writing Task 2 score?

Answer:

To score well:

• Understand and fully address the task.
• Use a clear essay structure (intro, body, conclusion).
• Show coherence and cohesion (linking ideas logically).
• Use a wide range of vocabulary and grammatical structures.
• Avoid memorised responses; focus on answering the question.
• Get feedback from a trained IELTS tutor or use model answers.

Follows IELTS buddy’s task 2 lessons.

6. Is pronunciation or accent more important in the Speaking test?

Answer:

Pronunciation is what matters — not your accent. You can have any accent as long as you are:

• Clear and understandable.
• Using correct intonation, stress, and connected speech.
• Avoiding mispronunciation of common words.

7. How can I manage time effectively during the Reading section?

Answer:

• Don’t read every word — use skimming and scanning.
• Spend no more than 20 minutes per passage (for Academic test).
• Practice identifying keywords in the question to locate answers.
• Move on if stuck; no negative marking means it’s better to guess than leave blank.

8. What are common mistakes in the Listening section?

Answer:

• Not reading questions in advance during the listening pauses.
• Misspelling words (especially in paper-based).
• Not following instructions (e.g., “Write no more than TWO words”).
• Failing to transfer answers accurately to the answer sheet (paper-based test).
• Getting distracted after missing one answer — stay focused.

9. Can I ask the examiner to repeat questions in the Speaking test?

Answer:

Yes — but only once or twice, and only for Part 1 or Part 3. You can say:

• “Sorry, could you repeat the question, please?”
• In Part 2 (long turn), the examiner won’t interrupt or repeat, so listen carefully.

10. How long should I prepare for the IELTS test?

Answer:

This is very difficult to answer as it depends on so many factors, such as your current level and target score, your ability to learn languages, and how much free time you have each day.

So these are very general guidelines:

• If you’re at Band 6 and aiming for around 7, allow 3-6 months with focused practice.
• If you’re below Band 6, expect 6-12 months or more.
• Use official IELTS practice materials, take mock tests, and focus on weak areas. Consistency and feedback are key.

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