How Long Does it Take to Prepare for the IELTS Exam

IELTS stands for the "International English Language Testing System." It is one of the most widely recognized and accepted English language proficiency tests globally. IELTS assesses the English language skills of non-native speakers who need to study, work, or live in countries where English is the primary language of communication. Here, in this blog, we will discuss the IELTS exam pattern, fees and other important things.

The IELTS Test Evaluates Four Key Language Skills:

Let’s see what is IELTS and what are the parts in this exam. 

Listening: The ability to understand spoken English in various contexts, including conversations, monologues, and presentations.

Reading: The ability to comprehend written English materials, such as articles, reports, and academic texts.

Writing: This section includes two tasks. Task 1 typically involves describing and interpreting visual information (charts, graphs, tables), while Task 2 requires writing an essay on a given topic.

Speaking: A face-to-face interview with an examiner, where candidates are assessed on their ability to express themselves, engage in a conversation, and respond to questions effectively.

IELTS Offers Two Main Versions:

IELTS Academic: This version is designed for individuals applying to study at universities or institutions where English is the primary language. It assesses your ability to understand and use complex academic language.

IELTS General Training: This version is for those planning to work or immigrate to English-speaking countries. It assesses practical communication skills in everyday contexts.

About IELTS Score

IELTS scores are reported on a scale from 0 to 9, known as the IELTS Band Scores. Each section (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking) receives a separate band score, and the overall band score is the average of these four scores. Different institutions and organisations have their own IELTS score requirements, so it's important to check the specific score needed for your purposes.

IELTS is recognized by a wide range of universities, employers, immigration authorities, and professional organisations worldwide. It's important to research the institutions or organisations you're interested in to confirm whether they accept Study in Australia without IELTS scores and which version of the test they require (Academic or General Training).

The amount of time it takes to prepare for the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) varies widely depending on several factors:

• Current English Proficiency - Your starting point plays a significant role. If you already have a strong foundation in English, your preparation time might be shorter compared to someone with limited language skills.
• Target Band Score - The band score you're aiming for also affects your preparation time. Achieving higher band scores typically requires more extensive and focused preparation.
• Available Time – The amount of time you can dedicate to preparation each day or week is a crucial factor. If you have more time available, you can spread out your preparation over a longer period.
• Study Approach - Your study approach matters. A structured study plan, access to resources, and consistent practice can expedite your preparation.
• Familiarity and practice – The more you practise the specific test formats and tasks, the more familiar you'll become with the test. Familiarity can lead to improved performance.
• Personal Learning Style – Some individuals learn faster through intensive study sessions, while others prefer a gradual, consistent approach.

General guideline:

• Basic Proficiency in English - If you have a moderate level of English proficiency and are aiming for a relatively lower band score (around 6), you might need around 4 to 6 weeks of dedicated preparation.

• Intermediate Proficiency in English – For those with a decent command of English and aiming for a moderate band score (around 7), a preparation period of 2 to 3 months might be sufficient.
• Higher Proficiency in English - If you're aiming for a higher band score (above 7), especially 8 or 9, you'll likely need several months of consistent and focused preparation.

IELTS Exam Fee in 2024

The IELTS exam fee in India is around INR 16,250. If you are planning to take the IELTS exam then you are required to pay the registration fee of INR 16,250 every time you book your IELTS exam. Similarly, if you are taking a computer-delivered IELTS exam then the fees for UKVI have been revised to INR 16,500.

Key Things to Remember

You need to remember one thing that everyone's learning pace is different, and your preparation time might vary based on the factors mentioned above. It's important to set realistic goals, create a study plan, and allocate time for each skill (listening, reading, writing, and speaking). Utilise official IELTS practice materials, take practice tests under timed conditions, and consider seeking guidance from language tutors or preparatory courses if needed. Regular practice, review, and self-assessment are key components of effective IELTS preparation.