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What gives the ielts certificate. What we already know about the IELTS exam

In order to exclude linguistic difficulties in the learning process, everyone for whom English is not their native language must provide the results of a general language test. In most cases, the exam consists of 4-5 sections that evaluate the key skills in language practice and the possibility of their joint application in the university audience. There are several options for confirming the level of English proficiency:

  • obtaining a certificate in an accredited center in your country;
  • obtaining a certificate at a university abroad;
  • preparation for testing in a foreign language school and obtaining a certificate in an accredited center abroad.

Obtaining a certificate in an accredited center in your country

Accepted by all British universities and the most common exams in Russia - IELTS and TOEFL. The third most popular and accepted by a large number of universities in the UK "student" language certificate - Cambridge ESOL.

IELTS

IELTS (International English Language Testing System) - developed in the UK, administered by organizations: British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia, University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations (Cambridge ESOL). This test is usually chosen by those who have studied British English. When passing IELTS, the candidate, depending on their future goals, must choose one of two modules - general (for living and working abroad) or academic (for students).

Name IELTS
Total time 3 hours
Reading 60 min
Letter 60 min.
Listening 30-40 min.
Interview with the examiner (speaking) 11-14 min.

The first three sections go one after the other, without a break. The academic module offers texts and essay topics related to academic and scientific issues. For example, in one of the written tasks it is required to write a description of a graph or a graphic drawing, and excerpts from texts from specialized publications are offered for reading.

How to give up?
Most of the tasks on official forms (paper carriers); assignments for listening comprehension - on audio media, answers on forms; interview - orally. The first three sections are taken on the same day, and the interview can be scheduled on a separate day.


Results - points for each section and total, from 1 to 9. The original certificate is issued in about 2 weeks. The certification authority can send up to 5 copies of the certificate to the receiving organizations (universities, embassies, etc.). 28 days after taking the test, the results will be available online, but they cannot be used officially - only for general information.

Certificate validity period
2 years.

approximate cost
13-25 thousand rubles depending on the region.


IELTS 5.5 and above, depending on the university and program. Sometimes a minimum score for any section of the test is additionally indicated.

TOEFL

TOEFL (Test Of English as a Foreign Language) - developed in the USA, administered by Educational Testing Service (ETS). This exam is generally preferred by candidates who have studied American English. There are two versions of the exam. The first is TOEFL ITP, which is often referred to as Computer-based Test or TOEFL CBT. In most cases, universities require that this exam be supplemented with TWE (Test Of Written English) results. The second is the Internet-based Test or TOEFL iBT. Registration of candidates - on the official website of the exam, passing the test - in an accredited center.

Content and duration of the exam:
TOEFL СBT- listening comprehension (listening), structure and written expression (composition and writing), reading (reading).
TOEFL iBT- reading (reading), writing (writing), listening (listening) and speaking (speaking section). Each section offers a number of tasks for the ability to combine several language skills. For example, read one text, listen to another, and then, summarizing the information, draw conclusions and express your own opinion orally or in writing.

Name TOEFL СBT TOEFL iBT
Total time 2 hours 4-4.5 hours
Reading 55 min. 60-80 min.
listening 35 min 60-90 min.
Break - 10 minutes.
Speech - 20 minutes.
Letter 25 min. 50 min.

How to give up?
On the computer, including the iBT conversational section (with headphones and microphone), notes on paper are allowed. The program randomly offers questions, the complexity of which varies depending on the correctness of the previous answer.

Results and certification
TOEFL CBT/iBT results (min.-max.) 0 - 280/ 0 -120 points; become available online within 15 days from the date of passing the test, then 1 certificate is sent to the student by mail. Another 4 copies are sent to the host organizations.

Certificate validity period
2 years.

approximate cost
TOEFL iBT $255.

University entry requirements
TOEFL CBT minimum 213, TWE 5.0; TOEFL iBT - 79+.

Cambridge ESOL

Cambridge ESOL(English For Speakers of Other Languages) - developed in the UK, administered by experts from the University of Cambridge. Exams are designed for five levels of difficulty - from Pre-Intermediate to the level of an educated native speaker.

The ability to understand and convey the meanings of texts on various topics - read and heard, write letters, reports, reviews, articles and communicate orally is tested. The Use of English section assesses knowledge of grammar, the ability to correctly and appropriately use language structures.

How to give up?
Most of the tasks on official forms (paper carriers); assignments for listening comprehension - on audio media, answers on forms; interview - orally. The first three sections are taken on the same day, the interview is usually scheduled separately.

results
Grades A, B, C - exam passed, D, E - not passed.

Obtaining a certificate
1.5-2 months after the exam.

Certificate validity period
Indefinitely.

approximate cost
FCE / CAE - $215 / $225.

University entry requirements
FCE (First Certificate in English) and CAE (Certificate in Advanced English) certificates.

There are other certificates accepted by UK universities. Many certificates are little known in Russia, and there are no accredited acceptance centers here. However, holders of any international language certificates should check if they are accepted by the chosen university.

Obtaining a certificate at the chosen university

Obtaining a certificate at a university is possible upon completion of preparatory language programs or upon successful passing of tests developed by university linguistic centers. Not all universities offer such tests, and you can find out about their availability on university websites, in the entry requirements section. Since they are handed over in a time interval close to the passage of the rest of the entrance examinations, this may be the most convenient for the applicant.

Obtaining a certificate through a language school abroad

Many students find studying at English language schools abroad the most effective way to prepare for language tests. In most cases, this preparation takes at least a month. Upon graduation, students take a language test in one of the official centers abroad and receive the results upon returning home.

Which exam do you prefer?

The question of which general language test results to submit to the university, in most cases, remains at the discretion of the student. The following circumstances may significantly affect the choice:

  • university requirements;
  • the timing of the exam (the closer the deadline for accepting documents by universities, the more likely there are queues for the exam at admission centers), the timing of obtaining the results and their submission to the university;
  • convenience and proximity of the location of accredited reception centers;
  • the cost of the exam and possible additional costs;
  • the level of language proficiency (this is important, for example, when choosing the Cambridge exam), the study of American or British English;
  • the content of the examination tasks, which can be found in more detail in the samples of examination papers on the official websites;
  • personal preferences for the exam procedure.

The International English Language Testing System IELTS is a standardized test for people who do not speak English as their first language. Founded in 1989, IELTS is one of the world's leading English proficiency tests (the others being TOEFL, TOEIC, PTE, OPI / OPIC).

IELTS is accepted by most educational institutions, as well as various academic and professional institutions around the world.

IELTS is approved by the UK Immigration Service and is used for visas and immigration.

The academic test - IELTS (Academic) is intended mainly for those wishing to study at universities, and to confirm professional qualifications.

The General Training test is suitable for people who want to find a job, study at the secondary level, or for the purpose of immigration.

The difference between test versions lies in the content, context and goals and objectives. All other functions, such as time limits, requirements for the development of a written assignment, assessment reporting, are the same.

IELTS Academic and General Training and include the following tasks:

The speaking module is a key component of IELTS. It is conducted in the form of a one-on-one interview with an examiner. The conversation session is recorded for the purpose of monitoring, as well as for re-marking if the result is appealed.

Structure

As described above, 2 types of test are offered: Academic and General. There is also a separate test offered by IELTS test partners called Life Skills.

Academic IELTS is suitable for applicants, professionals such as doctors and nurses.

General Training IELTS is suitable for those planning non-academic training, employment, immigration.

Life Skills IELTS can be used to obtain a family member's visa, a residence permit, or British citizenship.

The test itself includes 4 parts:

  • Listening - 30 min.
  • Reading: 60 min.
  • Writing skills: - 60 min.
  • Conversational speech - from 11 to 14 minutes.
  • Total - 2 hours. 55 min.

Reading and listening will be completed in one step. Speaking testing can take place on the same day, or up to 7 days from or before other tests.

All test-takers have the same type of listening and speaking test, while reading and writing differ depending on whether the test-taker is taking the test - Academic or General Training.

Listening

The listening module consists of four sections, with ten questions in each section. This will take 40 minutes: 30 for the test itself, plus 10 for the transmission of responses.

Sections 1 and 2 are devoted to everyday situations.

Section 1 consists of a conversation between two interlocutors (for example, a conversation about travel arrangements)

Section 2 - one person speaks (for example, talking about local services).

Sections 3 and 4 are devoted to educational and learning situations.

Section 3 is a conversation between two interlocutors (for example, a discussion between two university students)

Section 4 - one person talks about education, learning.

Each section begins with a brief introduction explaining the situation. The test takers are then given time to review the questions. These questions are in the same order as the information contained in the entry. The first three sections have a break in the middle, allowing test-takers to look at the remaining task. Each section is played only once.

At the end of the test, 10 minutes are given to submit their answers on the sheet. Test takers will lose points for incorrect spelling and grammar.

Reading skills

The reading test includes three sections of 2,150-2,750 word texts. There will be many types of questions, such as choosing an answer from the options provided, giving short answers to questions, identifying information, identifying the views of the writer, completing and supplementing sentences, text. Test-takers should be careful when writing answers as they lose points for incorrect spelling and grammar.

Texts for IELTS Academic

3 texts are given, which are taken from books, magazines, newspapers and Internet resources. All topics are of general interest to undergraduate or graduate students.

Texts for IELTS General Training

Section 1 contains two or three short texts on everyday topics. For example, timetables or notices are something a person would need to understand while living in an English speaking country.

Section 2 contains two texts on the topic of the work. For example, job descriptions, contracts, training materials.

Section 3 contains one long text about a topic of general interest. The text is usually longer and more complex than the texts in Sections 1 and 2. The text will be taken from a newspaper, magazine, book or online resource.

Writing

The writing skills test has two objectives. In Task 1, test takers must write at least 150 words, in about 20 minutes. Task 2 requires you to write at least 250 words in about 40 minutes. Test-takers will be penalized if their response is too short or off topic. Answers must be complete (notes or abbreviations must not be used).

Task 1: Test-takers describe their presented graphs, charts, tables.

Task 2: Test takers discuss opinions on a given topic, arguments. It may be necessary to propose a solution to the problem, justification, comparison of available evidence and consequences. It may be necessary to evaluate or challenge an opinion, an argument.

Task 1: Test-takers need to answer a situation from life in writing. For example, a letter to an employee of a residential residence about problems with housing, a letter to a new employer about problems with time management, or a letter to a local newspaper about a plan for the development of a local airport.

Task 2: Write an essay (general topics are given). For example, should smoking be banned in public places.

Colloquial speech

This test consists of one-on-one communication between the test-taker and the examiner.

The test itself includes 3 sections.

Section 1: Introduction and interview (4-5 min). Test takers may be asked about their lives, hobbies, reasons for taking the IELTS exam, as well as other topics such as clothing, sports, the internet.

Section 2: (3-4 min). Talk about a specific topic. You have one minute to prepare. Test takers are expected to speak for 2 minutes, after which the examiner may ask one or two questions.

Section 3: discussion (4-5 minutes). The third section includes a discussion between the examiner and the test-taker on questions related to the topic they already discussed in section 2.

Scoring

Each of the test modules is evaluated. The scores are averaged and rounded off.

The assessment is given on a 9-point scale.

Points are described as:

9 - expert: understanding of the English language is complete.

8 - very good user: full possession, inaccuracies are single and unsystematic.

7 - good user: language skills with occasional inaccuracies.

6 - competent user: good knowledge of English, there are some inconsistencies and inaccuracies, sometimes there is misunderstanding.

5 - modest user: partial ownership, errors are common.

4 - limited: owns limited.

3 - extremely limited: - understanding only the meaning of the general, in cases of already encountered situations.

2 - intermittent user: understanding only the basic elements using some words, or small sentences, in situations already encountered.

1 - non user: does not speak English.

0 - did not attempt: the absence of any data about the tester.

Scores are usually available 2 weeks after testing, and show:

Range (1 - 9)

Scores (1 - 9) in each section of the test (listening, reading, writing and speaking)

Photos and details of the person being tested.

Test Report forms are valid for two years.

In Krasnoyarsk you can take the examIELTS at the representation of Students International at:Krasnoyarsk, street Dictatorship of the Proletariat 32, office 8-3Phone: 252 93 83

2. When can I submitIELTS?

There are 48 fixed dates in a year, 4 dates for 1 month in different cities of Russia.

Schedule in other cities of the world is on the websites www. ielts-russia. en and www. ielts. org.

3. How to prepare forIELTS?

First of all, carefully read the brochure “Information for candidates”, which you can download from our website, or look at the websites www. ielts-russia. en and www. ielts. org. Preparation for IELTS is the leading activity of WAY ​​TO GO English language school. We invite you to a free trial lesson to prepare for IELTS. You can also purchase IELTS preparation textbooks, which are currently published by a variety of publishers.

4. Will I take all parts on the same day?

Listening, Reading and Writing are always held on the same day, one after the other, in the same order, without interruption. The oral part of the exam can be taken on any of the 7 days before or after the main exam day. If you are coming from another city, you will most likely take both parts on the same day.

5. What can I take with me to the exam?

Only pens, pencils and erasers. All means of communication, etc. must be turned off and kept with other personal belongings in a specially designated place. Also on the day of the exam, you need to bring the same documents that you provided during registration. Documents are checked both during the written parts of the exam and before the start of the oral interview.

6. When can I get results?

The results are ready on the 14th day after the main examination day. You can either receive your copy in person at the test center where you took the exam, or by registered mail.

7. What do IELTS scores look like??

You will receive a certificate with your photo, where it is indicated Your total score and the points you have scored for eachparts of the exam. Your test center will also organize mailings to your desired receiving organizations.

8. When can I retakeIELTS?

As soon as you want. However, it is worth noting that you cannot significantly improve your results only by passing the exam multiple times; more training is needed to achieve better grades. When retaking the results of the previous test, they are not canceled.

9. Are there special conditions for people with disabilities?

Test centers make every effort to meet the special needs of candidates with disabilities and provide them with conditions for better understanding of tasks and their performance. Our goal is to objectively assess the level of language proficiency of any of our candidates, regardless of their physical abilities. Applicants who require special conditions should inform their test center when applying so that all necessary arrangements can be made in a timely manner.

10. How long is the certificate validIELTS?

The certificate is valid for two years, although there are a number of reasons that affect the validity period. A certificate older than two years may be accepted if there is additional evidence that the candidate has been actively improving his level (lived in an English-speaking country). Unfortunately, we will not be able to confirm your results if the exam was taken more than two years ago.

11. What if I want to reschedule or cancel testing?

Cancellation or rescheduling is only possible more than 5 weeks before the scheduled date. If you cancel an exam more than 5 weeks in advance, you will receive a refund of 75% of the cost of the exam; When postponing the exam, you need to pay an additional 25% of the cost. If you are unable to attend the exam due to illness, the cost of the exam will be refunded upon presentation of the relevant medical document.

12. What happens if I don't show up on the test day?

In this case, you completely lose the amount of the registration fee. However, if you provide a medical certificate within 5 days of the exam, the money will be refunded minus the administration fee.

13. What happens if a test is canceled due to circumstances beyond the candidate's control?

In this case, the test center will offer the candidate an alternative test on the next test date.

14. What should I do if I am not satisfied with the results?

You can file an appeal at the testing center where you took the exam within four weeks of receiving your results. There are two types of appeals: a technical check of the accuracy of putting down the results of the Listening and Reading (free service) and the actual appeal, that is, a re-check of all written parts and recording of the oral interview (paid service). The cost of the appeal is fully refundable only if the result changes after the recheck.

15. What if I lost my certificate or need more copies?

The candidate receives only one copy in his hands, and in case of loss it cannot be restored. However, within two years from the date of the exam, the candidate can contact the test center where he took the exam and request free of charge up to 5 copies of the original form with the results. These copies are not handed out to the candidate, but sent to the university, embassy or consulate. A registration fee is payable for each subsequent copy. Details can be found in your test center.

16. Academic or general module?

IELTS is offered in two formats - general and academic. The academic module evaluates whether the candidate's level is sufficient for study or internship. Enrollment for higher or second higher education is based on this module.

The general module, like the academic module, tests all formal language skills, but it is not designed to assess the language for academic purposes, as it tests the language necessary for communication in an agglomerate environment. The general module is more suitable for those who are going to complete their secondary education, work, be on an internship or immigrate to Australia, Canada or New Zealand. The candidate himself must inform the center which module he is going to take. Information about which module to take can be obtained from the organization for which you are going to take IELTS.

17. What is the examIELTS?

The exam consists of four parts, each of which tests a different language skill.

Listening.It lasts 30 minutes and consists of 40 questions, which are divided into 4 parts. Disc recording is playingonly once. During this part, time is given to read the questions and write down and check the answers. The candidate writes the answers in the question booklet while the recording is playing (there are pre-set pauses for this). At the end of the recording, an additional 10 minutes are given to transfer the answers to a special form.

Reading. It lasts 60 minutes and consists of 40 questions. It is required to read three texts, with a total of approximately 2000-2750 words. Texts and questions are placed in a special booklet in which the candidate can make the necessary notes. The booklet cannot be taken outside the examination room. All answers must be transferred to a special form within this 60 minutes, that is, additional time is not given for transferring answers.

Letter. It lasts 60 minutes and consists of two parts. It is expected that the candidate will spend approximately 20 minutes on the first part, writing about 150 words, and 40 minutes on the second part, writing about 250 words. All answers must be written in full, answers as a short plan will not be accepted.

speaking. This part lasts 11-14 minutes and is an oral interview that the examiner takes from the candidate. All interviews are recorded.

18. Can I fill in the answer sheets by hand?

No. Answers from the forms are read by a computer that does not recognize the pen. Use a pencil to complete the answer sheet.

19. Testing ReliabilityIELTS.

Ensuring the safety of test materials and the reliability of results is our top priority, and a number of measures are specifically targeted to achieve this. Here are some of them:

All IELTS centers have detailed and clear instructions governing the testing itself, the release of results, their further sending to Australia, etc .;

Applicants are required to provide their formal photo ID when signing up for testing, during the written portions of the exam, and before beginning the oral interview;

Test results are printed on specially protected paper, certified by special seals and a scanned photo of the candidate.

20. Where can I get more information?

For more information, you can visit the websiteswww. ielts-russia. en and www. ielts. orgor get a consultation at WAY TO GO English school We will be happy to help you!


IELTS, or International English Language Testing System, is a test for people who are going to stay in an English-speaking environment in connection with immigration, education or internship. It allows you to determine how much a person for whom English is not a native language speaks it.

Take a test IELTS necessary if you plan to apply for immigration documents in connection with leaving for Australia, Canada, New Zealand, enter educational institutions of these countries, as well as Irish, British or American. At the same time, the number of educational institutions in the world that recognize the results of the IELTS test is constantly increasing.

The choice of exam usually depends on the goals of the person who takes it. When it comes to immigration, work or study abroad, you need an IELTS or TOEFL certificate. Although the first test appeared later, it becomes more and more popular over time.

Most higher and secondary educational institutions in different countries accept IELTS test results. Among them are Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Great Britain, South Africa. There are also more and more universities in the United States that also accept IELTS results as proof of English proficiency. He is also authoritative among employers in different countries. These are, in particular, Brazil, Denmark, Italy, Poland, Turkey, Vietnam and others.

What is IELTS? This is a kind of diagnostic. That is, it cannot be failed, and only if you do not come to the exam at all, you will get 0. In all other cases, you will end up with a certificate in which a score is set from 1 to 9. This will be your grade. In the case of immigration, you need to score 5-6 points, and if you want to study - 7 - 7.5.

The certificate will be valid for 2 years. After this period, you will again need to confirm the level of language proficiency. This is similar to the TOEFL certificate. But the exams of the so-called Cambridge group are known for their "indefiniteness". But at the same time, the latter have no restrictions on the scope. And those educational institutions that accept the relevant certificates - CPE and CAE, pay attention to when it was issued. Therefore, for their real application, “indefiniteness” is no longer an advantage.

What is included in the test?
During the IELTS test, basic language skills are assessed. These are listening (listening comprehension and comprehension), writing, reading and speaking. In this regard, the test is integrated. That is, language proficiency at all levels is the final result. And although specific skills are tested in each part, other skills are also used for them. For example, to check writing and speaking, you also need to have some information that was previously read or heard.

You get the result of the IELTS certificate already on the 13th day after passing the test. But TOEFL - only after 4 weeks. As for the Cambridge certificates, they will have to wait 3 months.

There are two versions of the IELTS test. This is the Academic module - a version for those who want to study at a university or graduate school, as well as the General module - a version for those who want to go abroad for work or permanent residence. 30-40% of people who take this test in Russia choose the second version. The rest are Academic module.

It is worth noting that IELTS is rapidly gaining popularity around the world. At the same time, the Academic version is best passed by residents of South Africa, and General - by residents of Malaysia, India and the Philippines.

At the same time, people who choose the General module version most often go to Australia (37%), New Zealand (30%) and Canada (27%). But those who pass the Academic module are going to the UK and Australia (respectively 42% and 37%).

To date, you can take the IELTS test in 300 admission centers in more than 120 countries around the world.

Why study IELTS courses?

Exam- a very responsible step in the life of every person who decides to go abroad to get an education or get a job. Leading methodologists and linguists advise starting preparation a year before the planned test. To successfully prepare, experts advise to go through IELTS courses, which exist on the basis of both leading universities and private linguistic centers. Here you can take a free test that will help determine your level of language proficiency and choose a further training strategy.

What do we already know about the IELTS exam?

To date exam is very popular among exams that confirm the level of knowledge of the English language. Of course, it requires appropriate preparation, in principle, like any exam. In order to facilitate the preparation process, we advise you to answer the questions for yourself: how much time you can allocate for classes, and how it will be more comfortable for you to study - on your own, with a teacher on an individual basis or in courses. Try to be responsible in choosing the type of activity. Do you have the materials you need to prepare yourself for IELTS exam who will be able to control you, check your work, whether you will be able to study according to the schedule and so on.

IELTS Preparation: Speak English

For many candidates who are preparing to take IELTS test, the real problem is the practice of speaking. The main difficulty is who to talk to. You are very lucky if one of the family members also decided to learn English. Then make a rule, for example, from 8 to 9 pm speak only in English. Well, as a last resort, learn to communicate with your dog or cat. Maybe at first glance, this is ridiculous, but it gives its results. Speak English for as long as you can - it's great practice. And you can thank your four-legged friend with something tasty.

Today I will share my personal experience and talk about how to pass IELTS. I took IELTS (Academic) in 2006 in London. Initially, my practical goal was the CPE certification. But it so happened that the agency, through which I was able to get a visa to the UK the first time, could offer me an educational program at ISIS Greenwich School of English only for IELTS. And despite the fact that neither immigration nor admission to a foreign university interested me, I still decided to take IELTS, because I needed an international certificate for work.

I purposefully studied the structure and nature of the CPE assignments for several weeks, and when the situation turned in favor of IELTS, I had exactly 1 month left before the exam. And given that this was my first visit to England and I was extremely interested in all kinds of excursions, walks and trips around the country, I was satisfied with my result, especially Speaking): Listening - 7.0, Reading - 6.5, Writing - 7.0, Speaking - 8.0, total score - 7.0. So how do you take IELTS?

What is IELTS?

Briefly about the international IELTS exam in the form of frequently asked questions and answers:
— What is IELTS?
– IELTS – International English Language Testing System. The test has two modules: academic (Academic Module) and general (General Training Module) and was developed by three organizations: the University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations, IDP Australia and the British Council. IELTS is one of the most popular international language exams - it is taken annually by 1,400,000 people in 135 countries around the world, and about 6,000 educational institutions accept IELTS certificates.

— What is the structure of IELTS?

- IELTS consists of 4 parts: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking, while the Listening and Speaking modules are the same for all examinees, while Reading and Writing are much more difficult for those who pass Academic IELTS.

How long does IELTS take and how does it work?
– IELTS lasts 2 hours 45 minutes and is taken in two stages: the main part (Listening, Reading, Writing) takes place on the same day, the Speaking part can take place on the same day, or a day (or two) before or after the main part of the exam . You will be informed in advance about the date, time and place of the Speaking.


- What does the IELTS certificate give? Who needs it?
– Passing the IELTS exam is a necessary step for admission to foreign universities, as well as in case of immigration or obtaining a visa to Canada, Australia, New Zealand and other English-speaking countries

- How is knowledge assessed when passing IELTS?
- The IELTS certificate is valid for two years. Maximum score - 9.0:


At the same time, each module is separately evaluated (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking) and the total score for the entire exam is displayed. It is this total score that is taken into account when entering a foreign university (Academic IELTS) or when immigrating (General IELTS).

Perhaps some of my recommendations for taking IELTS will seem trite. But sometimes even simple advice, heard at the right time, can be very useful. Let me remind you that these are my personal conclusions based on the experience of passing the Academic IELTS and the experience of passing the General IELTS of my students.

  1. Be positive and confident! Since you are on the exam, it means that it is very important for you. More precisely, the result is very important. Mobilize and give everything 100% on this day. Believe that you will get the desired score.
  2. If you have the opportunity to take IELTS in the UK (an English-speaking country), don't waste it. I deliberately wanted to take the international exam in English in England, because I saw a certain sense in being imbued with a lively English environment, talking enough with native speakers before the exam. And I was not mistaken - all this somehow helped me to relax and concentrate on the language as much as possible, because the atmosphere in language schools is usually very friendly, the teachers are high-level professionals; you get hooked quickly and don't want to leave later)
  3. Go to bed early the night before your exam to get a good night's sleep. As the English say: "Don't burn the midnight oil" - sleep better than midnight oil on eve of exams.
  4. During the exam attentively listen to the examiners' instructions, catch their every word. Even if you know the essence of the task by heart, do not neglect additional explanations.
  5. Do not try to cheat, peep answers from other examinees - such behavior leads to disqualification and you will be asked to leave the examination room without explanation. No one will stand on ceremony, that's for sure.
  6. IELTS is a difficult exam, and like any other international exam, it requires a solid knowledge of the English language. It is not possible to pass IELTS at 7.0 with an Intermediate level of English and below. More precisely, you can pass, only it will be a matter of your money and time. I recommend that you fully complete all levels, including Upper-Intermediate, and only then proceed to the preparation of IELTS, which will take you a maximum of 3-4 weeks.
  7. It is believed that passing IELTS with a decent score (usually 7.0) is not difficult - just learn the structure of the exam and the nature of the tasks. It is a myth. Knowledge of the structure is important, but without a solid knowledge of the language, I repeat, they are meaningless.
  8. In addition to a clear understanding of the structure and nature of the IELTS tasks, maximum concentration is required.
  9. Details matter much - missed endings, spelling mistakes, incorrect pronunciation of words, confusion with times will cause points to decrease.
  10. Naturalness and ease in Speaking is the key to high marks.
  11. The ability to use linking (link) words is also highly valued.
  12. Reading, general development, the ability to navigate in different life situations, a practical approach to solving everyday and educational problems, as well as such personal qualities as flexibility, creativity, the ability to analyze and synthesize, will serve you well in Writing and Speaking.

IELTS Listening Module

Be sure to review the text of the tasks, determine the keywords and anticipate the answers before listening begins.

IELTS Reading Module

Be prepared for these types of questions on the exam:

  • Completion
  • Matching
  • True/False/Does Not Say or Yes/No/Not Given
  • multiple choices
  • Labeling
  • Short answer questions
  • classification
  • headings
  • Location information
  1. When completing tasks for the Reading section, try to think in general terms, in detail, even, I would say, globally. For example, an unforgivable mistake, due to which my Reading score turned out to be so low (6.5), I consider my incorrect answer to the task: “List all the European countries mentioned in the text.” I have included all the required ones, except for the UK. Stupid mistake, I even remember that for some reason I deliberately did not include it in the list.
  2. Don't waste precious minutes to understand the meaning of each word, try to guess their meanings.
  3. Carefully study the headings, questions and tasks for the text - this will help you tune in to the right topic and guess the right answers.
  4. Watch a helpful video about IELTS Reading:

IELTS Writing Module

  1. If you are taking IELTS (Academic), then when describing graphs, you cannot do without 20-30 learned clichés. In order to memorize these phrases, practice is needed, of course. Describe 10 - 20 graphs, each time analyzing the errors and comparing your answer with the model answers. By "comparing" I don't mean just reading a sample, but writing down useful expressions and be sure to try to include them in my next written work.
  2. Writing out and memorizing key phrases is also necessary when writing an essay. In general, any work aimed at memorizing vocabulary, grammatical constructions is justified only with subsequent active use in written and oral speech.
  3. Watch a helpful video about IELTS Writing.

IELTS Speaking Module

  1. During the exam, the Speaking part is preceded by a short break (provided that Speaking is held on the same day), which must be used wisely: relax, eat, drink. After all, after 3 modules of Listening, Reading and Writing you will get tired; exams are stressful.
  2. During the dialogue with the examiner, be thoughtful, do not rush to answer immediately, but do not hesitate to answer.
  3. Be natural, conduct a dialogue in the same way as you would in your native language: use gestures, facial expressions, pause-fillers in moderation.

Where to prepare for IELTS

Experienced teachers of the English Voyage online school will help you prepare and pass IELTS for the desired score. Preparing for IELTS via Skype is an effective path to your success in English.

How to prepare for IELTS on your own

If you can easily complete the Upper-Intermediate level English tests, then you are ready to pass such a serious exam as IELTS.

  1. Study the structure of the exam in detail. To do this, on a piece of paper, independently write all parts of the exam, their duration and the nature of the tasks. Go back to this entry over and over again until you learn, because knowledge of the structure is the basis of any exam; such information will help you feel confident during the surrender and navigate what is happening.
  2. It is advisable to prepare Listening and Reading yourself - here you just need to organize yourself and not be lazy. For example, to get started, good listening practice can be obtained by working through audio files