There are two modules in IELTS: Academic and General Training. Candidates will be assessed in all four skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking in both modules. Candidates should check with the receiving organisations about entry requirements before deciding which module to take.
This information serves as a guide only. Candidates should check with the receiving organisations about entry requirements before deciding which module to take. You cannot change your selected module on the test day or after the closing date.
The Academic Module assesses whether a candidate is ready to study or train in the medium of English at an undergraduate or postgraduate level. Admission to undergraduate and postgraduate courses in the UK, Australia, Canada or New Zealand is based on the test results.
If you wish to study using English at undergraduate or postgraduate level or are applying to nursing or medical councils, you should take the Academic Module.
If you are planning to undertake non-academic training or apply for immigration to Australia, Canada or New Zealand, the General Training Module is the most appropriate.
Candidates must complete all four sections: Writing, Reading and Listening and Speaking to obtain an IELTS Test Report Form. The total test time is about two hours and 45 minutes. The order in which these tests are taken may vary. The total test time is about two hours and 45 minutes.
Candidates have a choice between Academic and General Training. These modules have different Reading and Writing papers.
The first three modules - Writing, Reading and Listening (The order in which these tests are taken may vary.) - must be completed in one day. No extra time will be allowed for a break during the first three modules. The speaking test can take place within 6 days before or after the Written test.
Please check the dates of your tests very carefully when you receive your confirmation notice. Your time slots for the speaking test will also be confirmed in the confirmation notice. This is uploaded to your My page 4 days before your test.
Download or read through a copy of the Information for Candidates for more detailed information.
