The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is a globally recognized exam designed to assess the English language proficiency of non-native speakers. It is required for study, work, or migration to countries where English is the primary language. The IELTS exam has two types: Academic and General Training, both assessing four key language skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
MSM Unify, with its vast network of over 1,500 campuses across 21 destinations, has successfully guided over 1,86,000 students in achieving their study-abroad dreams. Our team can help you choose the right institution, study-abroad destination, and program based on your career goals and IELTS score.
This section entails a detailed breakdown of each component of the IELTS exam, including Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. It provides an overview of the format, types of questions, and topics covered in each section.Â
This will help you understand the skills you need to develop and tailor your preparation strategy accordingly. Also, MSM Unify overseas education consultants have shared key tips and strategies for tackling each section effectively, to help you prepare well well for all aspects of the test.
The Listening section is 30 minutes long, comprising 40 questions across four recorded texts. This section tests your ability to understand spoken English in various accents, including British, Australian, and North American.
Part | Description | Number of questions |
Part 1 | Conversation in an everyday social context | 10 |
Part 2 | Monologue in an everyday social context | 10 |
Part 3 | Conversation in an educational or training context | 10 |
Part 4 | Monologue on an academic subject | 10 |
Key tips:
The Reading section lasts 60 minutes, with 40 questions to assess reading skills such as comprehension, inference, and summary.
Academic Reading:
General Training Reading:
Test type | Passages | Time       | Question types |
Academic Reading | 3 long passages | 60 mins | Multiple choice, true/false, matching headings |
General Training Reading | 5-6 texts | 60 mins | Matching information, short-answer questions |
Key tips:
The Writing section is divided into two tasks and lasts 60 minutes.
Academic Writing:
General Training Writing:
Test type | Task | Description | Time      |
Academic Writing Task 1 | Describe visual information | Minimum 150 words | 20 mins |
General Training Task 1 | Write a letter | Formal/informal letter | 20 mins |
Task 2 | Write an essay | Discuss the argument or problem | 40 mins |
Key tips:
The Speaking test is a face-to-face interview with an examiner and lasts between 11-14 minutes.
Part | Description | Duration |
Part 1 | Answer general questions about yourself | 4-5 minutes |
Part 2 | Speak on a given topic (1-minute preparation) | 3-4 minutes |
Part 3 | A deeper discussion on the subject introduced in Part 2 | 4-5 minutes |
Key tips:
There are two types of IELTS exams:
Section | Duration       | Questions | Focus |
Listening | 30 minutes | 40 | Understanding of spoken English in various contexts |
Reading | 60 minutes | 40 | Reading comprehension, skimming, and summarizing |
Writing | 60 minutes | 2 tasks | Writing skills, structure, coherence |
Speaking | 11-14 minutes | 3 parts | Spoken English proficiency |
Here are some expert tips by MSM Unify overseas education consultants to help you adhere to the syllabus, understand the exam pattern, and ace the actual test.
Familiarize yourself with the question types and exam structure. This foremost step is paramount to a successful IELTS test preparation.
Practice using past IELTS papers and official IELTS materials. This will help you identify the question pattern and difficulty level of this entrance exam.
Allocate time for each section entailed in the exam pattern and try to stick to the schedule for optimal exam preparation.
Simulate real exam conditions to assess your readiness for the actual test. This is the best way to assess your performance and identify your weaknesses to work on.
MSM Unify offers resources and counseling to help you prepare effectively. Their professional guidance can help you have an edge over your competition.
Having a clear understanding of the IELTS syllabus is crucial for effective test preparation. With the right resources and guidance, you can achieve your desired score. MSM Unify can support you in navigating your IELTS journey and finding the best study-abroad opportunities tailored to your goals. Start your preparation today with confidence!
By adhering to the above structure and using authentic resources, you can ensure a successful IELTS preparation journey.Â
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MSM Unify can help you achieve your desired scores through access to preparation resources, mock tests, and expert guidance.
So, connect with these experts to embark on your comprehensive test preparation journey soon!
MSM Unify can help you achieve your desired scores through access to preparation resources, mock tests, and expert guidance.
So, connect with these experts to embark on your comprehensive test preparation journey soon!
FAQs
The Academic test is for university admission, while General Training is for migration or work purposes.
It is conducted multiple times a month at various test centers worldwide.
Typically, a score of 6.5 or higher is required, with no band less than 6.0.
Practice listening to various accents and focus on understanding keywords and context.
No, you must use a pencil for these sections in the IELTS exam.
No, there is no negative marking for wrong answers in the IELTS exam.
The score is the average of all four sections, reported on a 9-band scale.
The score is valid for two years from the date of the IELTS test.
Yes, MSM Unify offers expert guidance, resources, and counseling to help you prepare and choose the right study destination.
Register through the official IELTS website or at a local test center. To complete the registration, select your preferred test date and exam location.
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