The International English Language Testing System, or the IELTS, is one of the most trusted English language proficiency tests worldwide. The exam is widely accepted in 11,000+ educational institutions. That's not all! Over 140 countries vouch for the legitimacy of the exam. The USA, the UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, the Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, and many other countries accept this test. The exam is jointly conducted by IDP Education, the British Council and the Cambridge Assessment English to test your skills in English. The questions aim to assess your ability to read, write, listen and speak in English. The IELTS is for non-native candidates who wish to pursue higher education, immigrate to a foreign country or find job opportunities abroad.
There are two types of IELTS exams –
Can’t figure out which exam you should apply for? It’s pretty easy! Just think of your goals and objectives. Are you planning to migrate to an English-speaking country? Then the IELTS General is for you! It’s also appropriate for students pursuing secondary education and workers planning to get a job in a foreign country. But if you're planning to pursue a Bachelor, Masters or PhD degree, you must register for the IELTS Academic. The test is also aimed at candidates looking for professional registrations in fields like law, medicine, etc. The IELTS Academic differs from the IELTS General Training. That’s why you should be careful while choosing one of the two. This blog will cover all the important details about IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training. It will give you a comprehensive comparison between the two. So, if you're still on the fence about choosing one of the two types, perhaps this blog will help you out. Scroll down to learn more.
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The IELTS Academic is accepted by almost every educational institution in an English-speaking country. The exam has gained an excellent reputation in the past 30 years. As a non-native English speaker, it is often hard to adjust to a foreign environment abroad. You won't be used to hearing your native language. Your classes will be in English. So, if you don't have a good grasp of the language, you will struggle academically. Adjusting to your new life will also be a challenge. That’s where the IELTS Academic shines. The exam is developed to test whether your English skills are up to the mark in an academic environment. Take a look at the IELTS Academic test structure to see what you’re getting into.
|
Test Section |
Test Duration |
No. of Questions |
|
Listening |
30 minutes |
40 |
|
Reading |
60 minutes |
40 |
|
Writing |
60 minutes |
2 |
|
Speaking |
11-14 minutes |
3 |
The total test duration is approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes. Read on for more details about question types and tasks in each section.
Total duration – 60 minutes
Total number of questions – 40
The IELTS Academic Reading Section includes three long texts that cover academic topics. The subject can be related to science, history, literature, or any subject. The passages are usually selected from academic journals or published papers. But don’t worry about them being too complex. There will be a helpful glossary to explain technical terms. After reading the passages, you will have to answer 40 questions. These questions can be true/false, one-word answers, or brief answers.
Here are some questions common to this section –
Note: The passages for the IELTS General Training are different from the IELTS Academic. You can check the IELTS General section of this blog for more info.
Total duration – 60 minutes
Total number of questions – 2
You get the same time as the Reading Section for the writing part. But instead of 40 questions, you must complete two tasks –
You must describe a chart/graph/diagram/table or any graphical presentation of data in 150 words.
You must write an essay of 250 words. The essay will be your response to a particular topic, argument or point of view.
Note: Task 1 differs for the IELTS General Training, while Task 2 is the same for both Academic and General Training. For more info, check the General Training section of the blog.
Total duration – 30 minutes
Total number of questions – 40
The Listening Section of the IELTS Academic requires you to listen to 4 audio recordings and answer 40 questions based on them. The topics for each recording vary.
Recording 1: Includes a dialogue set in an everyday context
Recording 2: Includes a monologue set in an everyday context
Recording 3: Includes a conversation among a maximum of 4 people in an academic or professional training context
Recording 4: Includes a monologue on an academic subject
Total duration – 11-14 minutes
Total number of questions – 3
You will attempt the Speaking Section in front of an IELTS-certified examiner. This can either be on the same day as the rest of your exams or a week after.
Task 1: Introduction and interview (approx. 4-5 minutes)
In this section, you must answer general questions regarding your home, family, friends, environment, etc.
Task 2: Long turn (approx. 2-3 minutes)
You will have 1 minute to prepare to speak on a random topic and 2 minutes to speak on it. The examiner can also ask 1-2 questions on the topic.
Task 3: Discussion (approx. 4-5 minutes)
This is a prolonged discussion on the topic that you chose in the previous task. You can dive into a more in-depth exploration of the topic, discuss more issues, and provide your opinions within 4-5 minutes. After going through the structure, it becomes clearer that IELTS Academic is not for everyone. It is designed for academicians and students. The questions are more academic-centric. They require exhibiting critical thinking skills. That's why they are catered to –
Now that you know all about IELTS Academic, let's move on to IELTS General Training. Once you've covered both, you'll have a clearer idea of the differences between the two exams.
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The IELTS General Training is not as strict about including academic contexts in the exam. The main purpose of this test is to assess your English skills in an everyday context. That’s why you won’t find many education-centric questions in the General test. Let’s take a look at the overall structure of the exam.
|
Test Section |
Test Duration |
No. of Questions |
|
Listening |
30 minutes |
40 |
|
Reading |
60 minutes |
40 |
|
Writing |
60 minutes |
2 |
|
Speaking |
11-14 minutes |
3 |
As you can see, there is no change in structure between the IELTS Academic and the IELTS General Training. Both exams follow the same number of questions for each section. The duration is the same as well. Only the Reading and Writing sections contain different questions compared to the IELTS Academic, while the Listening and Speaking sections are the same.
Total duration – 60 minutes
Total number of questions – 40
The Reading Section of the IELTS General Training contains four short passages. The length and complexity of the passages vary. However, all the topics are based on everyday social context. The passages are usually chosen from company handbooks, advertisements, newspapers, books, and official documents. So, unlike the IELTS Academic, it does not focus on academic contexts. But the question types are the same.
Total duration – 60 minutes
Total number of questions – 2
Just like IELTS Academic, you must complete two writing tasks. However, the first task for General Training is different.
You must write a letter in 150 words. The topic for the letter varies. It can be addressed to an authoritative figure so you can highlight your opinions about an issue. Or it can be addressed to a friend or loved one.
The second task remains the same. You will have to write an essay of 250 words.
Total duration – 30 minutes
Total number of questions – 40
The Listening Section for the IELTS General Training follows the same pattern as the IELTS Academic. You will listen to 4 recordings and answer 40 questions based on what you’ve heard.
Total duration – 11-14 minutes
Total number of questions – 3
The Speaking Section follows the same pattern as the IELTS Academic. You’ll be interviewed by an IELTS-certified expert. The number of tasks and types of questions remain the same. Check out the Speaking Section of the IELTS Academic for more details. A quick review of the IELTS General Training makes it apparent that the exam targets a wider audience. This exam is more appropriate for –
Did you note the differences between the two? It’s okay if things seem a bit confusing. Check out the comprehensive guide below to understand the main differences.
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|
IELTS Exam Pattern |
IELTS Academic |
IELTS General |
|
Listening (30 minutes) |
Answer 40 questions based on 4 recordings: Recording 1: Dialogue set in an everyday context Recording 2: Monologue set in an everyday context Recording 3: Conversation among maximum 4 people in an academic or professional context Recording 4: Monologue on an academic subject |
Same as IELTS Academic |
|
Reading (60 minutes) |
Answer 40 questions from 3 long academic texts. These texts are taken from academic journals, newspapers, research papers, etc. |
Answer 40 questions from 4 short passages. These texts are taken from books, newspapers, company handbooks, etc. |
|
Writing (60 minutes) |
Complete 2 writing tasks. Task 1: Describe a table/diagram/chart/any diagrammatic presentation of information in 100 words. Task 2: Write a 250-word essay. |
Complete 2 writing tasks. Task 1: Write a letter in 100 words. Task 2: Write a 250-word essay. |
|
Speaking (11-14 minutes) |
Complete 3 speaking tasks. Task 1: Introduction & interview Task 2: Long turn Task 3: Discussion |
Same as IELTS Academic. |
The fees for the IELTS Academic and the IELTS General Training have increased recently. Currently, the fees are –
IELTS Academic – INR 16,250 (for pen-and-paper and computer-delivered exams)
IELTS General Training – INR 16,250
You can pay the fees during registration. The acceptable methods of payment are –
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If you’re planning to pursue higher studies in an English-speaking university, you must appear for the IELTS Academic. This exam assesses your fundamental English skills. A high score means you can apply to some of the best institutes across the world without worrying about meeting the eligibility criteria. The pen-and-paper-based IELTS is organized at least 48 times a year (4 times a month, depending on the demand). Meanwhile, the computer-delivered IELTS takes place seven days a week. There are three-time slots for each day to increase your convenience.
Step 1: Create an account on the official IELTS website for India.
Step 2: Click on ‘Register for IELTS.
Step 3: Choose IELTS Academic as your preferred test, your preferred test date and time slot.
Step 4: Enter your personal and registration details.
Step 5: Upload photos of your passport.
Step 6: Select the colleges or universities where you want to end your score report.
Step 7: Confirm the details.
Step 8: Pay the registration fees.
Step 9: Print the acknowledgment receipt.
Every year, millions of Indian students apply for the IELTS Academic exam for university admissions. But why is the IELTS always the first choice? Well, there are too many benefits to taking this exam. Read on to learn more.
Over 11,000 higher education institutes in 140+ countries recognize the IELTS as a valid English language proficiency test. The exam has been going strong for 30+ years.
You can register for the IELTS from the comfort of your home. The pen-and-paper IELTS takes place approximately 48 times a year. The computer-delivered version is conducted every day of the week. So you can choose your preferred date and time slot.
Employers always value candidates who have a good command of the English language. Whether you want to apply for an internship or look for job opportunities abroad, a good IELTS score will improve your chances.
The four sections of the IELTS Academic – Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing – cover a wide range of questions. These assess your ability to read and comprehend complex conversations in academic and everyday contexts. The exam also checks your speaking skills to ensure you can hold your own in conversations with native speakers.
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When you want to immigrate or look for job opportunities in an English-speaking country, the IELTS General Training is the best choice. Unlike the IELTS Academic, the General exam doesn’t contain complex academic-related questions. For example, the passages for the Reading Section include four short ones. Compare it to the IELTS Academic, where you get three long academic texts. The four short passages cover a wide range of non-academic topics. Scroll down to explore why the IELTS General Training is the perfect choice for immigration or work purposes.
The IELTS General Training is a necessary prerequisite for immigration to countries like the UK, Canada, New Zealand and Australia. For example, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) accept IELTS General scores for issuing work visas and processing applications for permanent residency.
International graduates and professionals seeking registrations in vocations like law and medicine must prove their English proficiency. The proficiency levels aren’t the same for all vocations. It varies for different organizations.
Several industries require job-seekers to prove their English proficiency if they are from non-English speaking countries. So, if you're looking for work opportunities abroad in fields like medicine, engineering, law, finance, nursing, etc., your IELTS General scores will play a crucial role. The IELTS General Training primarily aims to assess your English skills in the everyday social context. The academic portion is reduced, and more emphasis is given to assessing your English skills in a professional or general setting. The questions check whether you can –
Whether you wish to appear for the IELTS Academic or the General Training, you must have prior knowledge about your English skills. Growing up in a non-English speaking country is disadvantageous. You don’t get to hear conversations in English all around you. Moreover, there are few opportunities for you to speak in English. As a result, your English speaking and listening skills might need work. But this isn't applicable to all candidates. Some might have excellent listening skills because they listen to English podcasts and academic lectures. Watching English movies without subtitles helps polish listening skills as well. Meanwhile, other candidates might have exceptional speaking skills because they are used to conversing in English in school.
You cannot generalize that all Indian students are good in certain skills and poor in others. That's why you must identify your strengths and weaknesses. Otherwise, you won’t be able to develop a proper study plan. Your plan should focus on developing your weak areas. For example, if you want to improve your writing skills, you can dedicate more time to reviewing fundamental English grammar rules.
Your English proficiency level can also influence whether you will take the IELTS Academic or the General test. The Academic version of the test is considered more complex compared to the General exam. You’ll find complex words pertaining to academia in multiple prompts. Now, if you don’t have an extensive vocabulary, you might not recognize these words at all. Thus, experts always recommend taking the IELTS Academic if you have above-average proficiency in the language.
There is a simple way to know if you’re ready to take the IELTS Academic or General Training. Just sign up for mock tests! The official IELTS website has several practice tests for Academic and General Training. You can also find various online sources to test your listening skills. But it's hard to get a general assessment of your speaking skills. Thus, another great option is to sign up for professional guidance. For example, AbroAdvice.com offers IELTS coaching where you can polish your English skills. The classes are personalized according to your needs. So, if you need to improve your speaking skills, you will certainly enjoy the conversation practice classes with native English speakers.
The IELTS is an important exam for all those who wish to move abroad. The Academic test is for students pursuing higher studies and candidates seeking professional registrations. Meanwhile, the General test is for students pursuing vocational courses and secondary education. It is also used for immigration and work-related purposes. Before choosing one of the two, you should carefully asses your requirements. The Academic test is more challenging than the General Test. But you don’t have to take the Academic option if you’ve chosen a vocational course.
Furthermore, you should carefully assess your current English skills to prepare the best study plan. Identify the sections that you struggle with the most. You can dedicate more time to these when drawing up your study plan. Don’t hesitate to reach out to professional experts if online practice tests aren’t enough. It’s easier to score well when professional IELTS experts guide you.
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The general consensus is that the IELTS Academic is more difficult than the General Training. The Academic test contains more complex academic passages. The questions are designed to test your proficiency in English in both academic and social contexts. However, the General test questions focus more on social contexts. Therefore, it is considered the easier option.
You cannot use the IELTS Academic and General scores interchangeably. The IELTS Academic is specifically for students who wish to pursue their Bachelor's, Master's and PhD courses in an English-speaking country. It is also applicable to those who want professional registrations for medicine or law. The General Training is for students who want to pursue secondary education and vocational courses. The General scores are also used for immigration and work opportunities.
The IELTS Academic is suitable for Indian students who want to pursue higher study abroad. Almost all educational institutes in foreign countries use the IELTS Academic score to assess your English speaking, reading, writing and listening skills. However, if you want to immigrate to Australia, the UK, Canada, or New Zealand, the IELTS General Training is more suitable. Opt for the General exam if you want to search for job opportunities abroad.
The IELTS Academic and IELTS General exams are scored following the same method. You will receive a sectional score from 1-9 for each of the four components of the test – Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. The overall score is the mean of what you secure in each component. This is rounded off to the nearest 0.5. For example, if your mean score is 6.75, it will be rounded off to 7. But if you score 6.10, it will be rounded off to 6.
If you are not satisfied with your IELTS score, you can retake the exam as soon as the results are published. The IELTS has also introduced the One Skill Retake option. This allows you to retake only one component of the test. However, you must apply for this within 60 days of taking the full exam.
The official IELTS website gives you access to a 30-day online preparation course once you register for the exam. This IELTS course contains practice tests on all four components of the exam. You can also get many helpful tips on the website. However, if you want more personalized assistance, you can sign up for IELTS coaching on AbroAdvice.com.
If you have registered for the IELTS General Training but want to convert it to Academic, just fill out the module change form. Send the form to your local testing center at least five days before your exam date. Remember to attach a photocopy of your passport or any other valid ID proof along with the form.
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