More than 2 million people take the IELTS Test every year—why should you?
The IELTS Test isn’t the only English testing system around if you’re planning to study, work or perhaps even to live in an English-speaking country, it’s true. There’s the Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL) test, the well-known TOEFL, as well as Cambridge CAE.
Here are a few things to consider before choosing an English test:
Why are you taking a test?
Choosing an English test that fits your needs can be confusing because there are so many good reasons to have proof of your English-language proficiency. The most common reasons include:
- For admission to an English university or other academic institution
- To show a specific employer your ability to conduct business in English
- You’ve decided you want to immigrate to Canada, the UK, Australia, or New Zealand
These are all excellent reasons to take a recognized and respected English test—but which one should you choose?
Let’s take a look at why IELTS is the best answer to this important question.
IELTS is tailored to your needs
Unlike other tests, IELTS comes in both Academic and General Training formats. Both versions of the test are taken in the same way but present different content in the Reading and Writing sections.
The results of an IELTS Academic test tell schools that you’re not only ready to interact with classmates on campus, but prepared to read and write critically in your classes.
Whether you choose the Academic or the General Training format your practical listening and speaking skills will be assessed in both. This means you’re not limited to using your IELTS Academic score for studying abroad, which is the case with tests like CAEL.
The most comprehensive test is the most relevant
The IELTS test assesses all of your English skills—even speaking—in less than 3 hours.
Other tests place emphasis on reading and listening comprehension skills with an added writing component, but IELTS is different. In addition to testing your passive skills, you will also receive face-to-face assessment with a live IELTS examiner in an interview-style speaking test.
This 15-minute portion of the test adds great value to holding an official IELTS score. It tells organizations how effectively, and comfortably, you can use your English skills in real-world situations.
IELTS is widely trusted and accepted
Taking a high-stakes English test requires time and money—for preparation and the test itself—so getting the most out of your investment is important. That means choosing a test widely accepted across many industries and countries.
Tests like Canada’s CAEL are useful for one purpose: Canadian universities. That’s great if you have a very narrow, specific goal in mind but few people regret keeping their options open.
IELTS is accepted at over 9000 academic and professional institutions in 140 countries, including the United States; talk about keeping your options open. In addition to a wealth of options for studying abroad, IELTS is also accepted for immigration to Canada, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand.
So whether you’re interested in work, study, or immigration, IELTS can be your key to the English-speaking world.
IELTS test dates are available throughout the year. For more information about taking IELTS, registering for IELTS or finding an IELTS test centre, check out our website.
