What is IELTS?

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is the most widely recognised English language test in the world. IELTS is accepted by over 12,500 organisations in more than 140 countries and is developed by some of the world's leading experts in language assessment.

You can take IELTS to:

• Apply to a university or higher education institution for a course taught in English in any country worldwide.

• Spend a short period of studying abroad.

• Work in a professional organisation that requires advanced English language proficiency.

• Immigrate to an English-speaking country such as Canada, Australia, or New Zealand.

Which IELTS test is right for me?

IELTS opens the pathway for you to discover the world, get the job you want, and demonstrate your English language abilities. The test you choose depends on your goal.

There are two types of the IELTS test available - IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training

• IELTS Academic: It measures if your English language proficiency level is suitable for an academic environment. The test reflects aspects of academic language and assesses whether you are ready to begin training or a course of study in English.

• IELTS General Training: It measures English language knowledge in a practical, everyday context. The test tasks reflect real-life situations in social or workplace settings.

Please check which test you are required to take with the institutions or organisations.

IELTS on paper, computer or online?

You can choose from a wide range of test dates in Ghana and take the exam in paper-based, online, or computer-based formats.

You can take your test:

• in test centres: on paper or on computer

• from the comfort of your home or anywhere with a stable internet connection: IELTS Online (IELTS Academic only)

If you choose IELTS Online or take your test on a computer, you will receive your results within eight working days in a digital format (e-TRF).

Test Structure and Scoring

The IELTS test has four sections:

• Listening (30 minutes)

• Reading (60 minutes)

• Writing (60 minutes)

• Speaking (11-14 minutes)

The total test time is 2 hours and 45 minutes.

You will be assessed in four skills and receive a band score for each test section. IELTS scores range from 0 to 9 for each skill and your Test Report Form will show an overall score reflecting a summary of the level of your English proficiency.

How to prepare for your test

IELTS from British Council provides you with numerous free online preparation resources. Book your exam as soon as possible to have more time to prepare and make the most of these resources.

IELTS Preparation resources:

IELTS Ready Premium: 40 practice tests for each skill, timed practice tests, live and recorded lessons, learning plans, response templates, and the "Ask the Teacher" feature for direct expert questions. It is free when you book your test with the British Council. Practice test simulations to familiarise yourself with the exam format.

Join free webinars to learn more about the test structure and see question types.