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Understanding IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
IELTS means International English Language Testing System. It is a test of English language proficiency. The test is designed to assess the language ability of non-native speakers of English who intend to study or work where English is the primary language of communication.
IELTS is available in two test formats which are Academic or General Training and provides a valid and accurate assessment of the four language skills: listening, reading, writing and speaking.
IELTS Academic
IELTS Academic is suitable for entry to study at undergraduate or postgraduate levels, and for professional registration purposes.
ELTS General Training
IELTS General Training is for test takers wishing to migrate to an English-speaking country (Australia, Canada, New Zealand, UK), and for those wishing to train or study at below degree level.
IELTS is accepted as evidence of English language proficiency for study, work and migration in Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the UK, as well as for study and work in the USA. Each country sets its own IELTS requirements. Please visit the relevant government websites for up to date information.
Australia
IELTS is accepted for many visa categories as well as permanent residency in Australia. It is also a requirement for professional recognition from some Australian professional organizations and accrediting bodies.
Canada
If you are applying for a work visa, professional recognition or for permanent residency in Canada, it is likely that you will be required to present evidence of English language proficiency as part of your application. IELTS General Training is the only internationally available test of English proficiency accepted by Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) for immigration to Canada.
New Zealand
The New Zealand government requests IELTS as evidence of English language proficiency for many visas, including those within the Skilled Migrant, Investor and Entrepreneur, Residence from Work and Parent categories.
UK
Evidence of English language ability is a requirement when applying to settle permanently in the UK.
USA
If you are applying to study in the USA, IELTS results are accepted as proof of your English skills by more than 3,000 institutions in the USA.
Professional registration
In most countries where English is the main language of communication, evidence of acceptable English language skills is a prerequisite for applicants and international graduates seeking professional registration. The level of English language proficiency required by organizations varies by profession, by country and by jurisdiction. It is up to the individual professional registration bodies to determine the IELTS band score and which version of the test (Academic or General Training) they require.
IELTS for vocational training
The General Training version of IELTS measures English language proficiency in a practical, everyday context and the tasks and texts reflect both workplace and social situations. This is the version of the test usually required for vocational training, for example, in the construction, hospitality and leisure, and tourism industries.
Which industries ask for IELTS?
- Registration bodies representing the healthcare professions, such as nursing, medicine and pharmacy, where English language competence is of critical importance.
- Other professional bodies in particular countries such as accounting, engineering, law and veterinary practice.
- A wide range of other employers from industries such as finance, government, construction, energy, aviation and tourism.
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