The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) test provides an evaluation of English for those who wish to study or train in English. It is very similar to the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) required by North American universities and colleges. IELTS is a jointly managed test by the University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations, British Council and IDP Education Australia. The test is accepted by many professional organizations in Australia and New Zealand including: the New Zealand Immigration Service, the Australian Department of Immigration. If you are interested in studying and / or training in Australia or New Zealand, this is the test best adapted to your qualification needs.

Studying for the IELTS test usually involves a long course. The preparation time is similar to that of the TOEFL, FCE or CAE courses (approximately 100 hours). The total test time is 2 hours and 45 minutes and consists of the following:

Academic Reading:
3 sections, 40 items, 60 minutes 
Academic Writing: 
2 tasks: 150 words and 250 words, 60 minutes 
General Training Reading: 
3 sections, 40 items, 60 minutes 
General training Writing:
2 tasks: 150 words and 250 words, 60 minutes 
Listening: 
4 sections, 40 items, 30 minutes
Speaking 
11 to 14 minutes 

What is the IELTS?

Before beginning to study for the IELTS, it is a good idea to understand the philosophy and purpose behind this standardized test. To get up to speed on test taking, this guide to taking tests can help you understand general test taking preparation. The best way to understand the IELTS is to go straight to the source and visit the introduction to the exam at the IELTS information site.

The following links lead you to various free practice resources on the Internet. Preparing for the IELTS on the Internet.