The IELTS Test: A Comprehensive Guide for 2023
Contemplating attempting your IELTS Test can be rather intimidating for some candidates who aren’t fully prepared for what to expect. On the other hand, some rearing-to-go candidates might find themselves brimming with confidence as they have perhaps attempted English proficiency tests in the past too.
Whether you belong to the first or the second category, it is always best to gear up and familiarise yourself with the tests ahead of time.
Here are a few ways you can prepare yourself better:
1. Which test should you answer?
Identify the kind of test you need to attempt.
Currently, IDP offers two kinds of IELTS tests:
a. The Academic Module – For students seeking higher education in English-speaking countries.
b. The General Training Module – For candidates planning on migrating to English-speaking countries and those hoping to train or study below the degree level.
2. Mode of Test options
Consider which of the below options of test mode you would prefer/ need to attempt. Each of them has its own purposes and advantages to be aware of. Here are a few factors to keep in mind about each test mode.
a. Computer-Delivered IELTS – The candidate answers the test at a particular centre that provides a computerised test. Those attempting this test obtain their results within 3 to 5 days after completion of the test.
b. Computer-Delivered IELTS for UKVI – Similar to the above-computerised test, this test is only intended for candidates explicitly targeting the UK as their study/ work destination through Pathway or Foundational programs. Results are also obtained within 3 to 5 days of test completion.
c. Pen and Paper-based IELTS – Ideal for candidates who aren’t comfortable using the computer and prefer the traditional pen and paper instead. Results for this test are obtained only after 13 to 15 days.
d. IELTS for UKVI – Similar to the pen and paper-based test, this test is only intended for candidates explicitly targeting the UK as their study/ work destination through Pathway or Foundational programs. Results are obtained within 13 to 15 days.
Note: The scores are valid for only 2 years from the date of obtaining the results.
3. Identify your target band score
Having chosen the right module, the next step is figuring out the band score you need to attain.
Candidates attempting the Academic module need to check out the desirable band scores based on the College or University they are applying to. Similarly, those attempting the General module will need to check out the acceptable band scores of the English- speaking country they wish to immigrate to.
Knowing the band score you need to attain will help you set a clearer goal for yourself. You will gradually find yourself aiming for a greater band score, thus ensuring you meet the desired one.
While in this process, don’t forget to learn how to interpret your scores as this tells plenty about your proficiency levels.
4. Certified Coach or Self Practice?
Decide whether you need coaching by a certified professional or can manage on your own.
If you are confident in your English proficiency levels, you will still need to ensure you spend sufficient time practising on a regular basis before the test.
If you are not as confident, considering a coach who can guide and assess you as you practice daily will help build confidence in your skills. The coach will also be able to score you regularly and provide useful and customised feedback that will help improve your vocabulary, grammar and strategy in answering the test.
5. Know your Test
Familiarise yourself with the four types of tests.
Purchasing the latest IELTS book and getting acquainted with the different types of questions that can appear makes the test less daunting.
It’s also good practice to understand the criteria against which each test is scored. This will help you recognise your strengths and weaknesses and work toward improving on your shortcomings.
Candidates being assisted by a certified coach will find themselves at an advantage as the coach will assess and be able to provide instant feedback for improvements.
6. Practice makes perfect
Having identified your areas of difficulty will help ensure that you apply conscious and deliberate efforts toward a better score. This can happen only when you practice regularly at least 20 days before the test.
As you practice, ensure you time yourself and aim at completing the tests within the assigned time frame. For example, when attempting a 40-minute essay for Writing Task 2, though the test takes 40 minutes to complete, consider completing the test within 30 minutes as this will give you 10 minutes of additional time to proofread, edit and revise your completed essay.
7. Use professional and newly learnt vocabulary in your daily conversations
As you attempt to use better lexis through your daily practice, try adopting the learnt vocabulary in your regular conversations with your friends. Doing this will certainly boost your confidence and make you more comfortable conversing in a more professional manner thus diminishing any anxiety related to the speaking test.
