IELTS tests all four language skills – listening, reading, writing and speaking. The Speaking test is a face-to-face interview with a certified Examiner. It is interactive and as close to a real-life situation as a test can get.
Research shows that IELTS motivates test-takers to develop real and well-rounded English rather than learning by rote. This means your understanding of English is improved and valid for real life in an English-speaking country.
International English
IELTS recognises both British and American English in terms of spelling, grammar and choice of words. It also incorporates a mix of native speaker accents from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK and US in the Listening component.
International content
The IELTS approach is recognised as being fair, reliable and valid to all candidates, whatever their nationality, cultural background, gender or special needs. The test questions are developed by a network known as the IELTS item writers in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, UK and the US. They are based on real life sources (for example, advertisements, books, newspapers and company policies), so ensuring that they are always fit for purpose.
International partners
IELTS is owned by a global partnership of education and language experts: the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia and the Cambridge English Language Assessment . These bodies are dedicated to academic excellence, cultural understanding, student recruitment and creating success worldwide.
International consultation
IELTS has been developed in close consultation with academics, professional bodies and immigration authorities from around the world.
Choose from more than 800 locations worldwide
IELTS tests are offered up to four times a month in over 800 test venues in more than 130 countries. The cost of taking the test is set locally and payable in the local currency, making registration more convenient for candidates. Results are issued to candidates 13 calendar days after the test. Official IELTS Test centres can send Test Report Forms directly to your organisation or institution (provided it has been nominated by the candidate), either by mail or as an electronic download.
Source: http://www.ielts.org
