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Test types

An IELTS result can help your journey for study, work, and life abroad.

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IELTS Academic

IELTS General Training IELTS Life Skills

IELTS for UKVI

Find the right test for you

IELTS offers a range of tests, giving you the flexibility to choose the right test as per your requirements.

In both the General Training and the Academic tests, the Speaking and Listening sections are the same. However, the Reading and Writing sections of these tests differ. They have been designed to assess language ability that is more relevant for each specific sector.

IELTS for UKVI is a UK government-approved Secure English Language Test (SELT) that assesses only your English speaking and listening skills. IELTS Life Skills tests you in listening , reading and speaking modules.

IELTS Academic

IELTS Academic test is the right choice for you if you are planning to study in a country where English is spoken.

The test assesses if you are ready to begin studying in English. It features vocabulary that is familiar within an academic setting.

  • University
  • Higher education
  • Professional registration

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    IELTS General Training

    Those wishing to migrate to a country where English is spoken, and for those wishing to train or study at below degree level the IELTS General Training test is suitable.

    The everyday English language skills that are required in social situations and workplace environments are assessed in this test.

  • Immigration

  • Training

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    IELTS for UKVI

    IELTS tests are accepted by the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) as proof of English proficiency for those wishing to live, work, or study in the UK.

    This is the test to take if you are applying for any type of UK visa.

    Find out more

    Which test is right for you?

    Deciding which test is right for you will depend on where you want to live, work, or study, and what exactly you want to do. You should always check entry requirements – for your target country, institution, or association – before choosing your test.

    IELTS Life Skills is to be taken by those who are sponsored by their spouses and/or any other as required by the host country.