Be better prepared for your IELTS test by following the five steps below
Find out about the benefits of taking an English language course
Understand the test format and rules
Take advantage of our free practice test materials
There are five steps that can help you succeed in your IELTS test and get the results required for achieving your goals
STEP 1: Improve your EnglishIt takes time to learn a language and one of the very best ways to learn is to take an English language course
The feedback you receive from your teacher will help you improve the specific skills involved in speaking, listening, reading and writing English
Use your English every day
Read, speak, listen and write in English as often as you can as this is a proven way to improve your English and therefore your IELTS score
Speak English with your friends and family
Listen to English language radio, television and film
Try to listen to a variety of English accents including American, Australian, British, Canadian and New Zealand
Read English publications wherever possible
Write letters, emails or notes in English to practise your written skills
STEP 2: Understand the test format and rulesFamiliarise yourself with the test format
Remember that there are two versions of IELTS – IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training
The Listening and the Speaking components are the same for both tests but the Reading and the Writing components are different
Read the Information for candidates booklet which provides essential information about how to respond correctly to each part of the test
You can also collect a copy of this from your IELTS test centre
Read carefully the Notice to candidates
Get to know what each level on the IELTS band score table means
Understand what the examiners are looking for in the Speaking and Writing tests by reading the assessment criteria
Get the facts
Don’t believe myths and rumours about the test
They will only distract you
STEP 3: Practise sample questionsPractise the test using these free IELTS test sample questions
Use the Official IELTS Practice Materials (two books available) which you can purchase online or from your local test centreThere is a wide range of IELTS materials available you can purchase from a variety of publishers
For a list of popular titlesIn addition to practising sample questions you may also wish to consider taking an IELTS preparation course
A preparation course will help you:Practise the type of tasks included in an IELTS test (e
g
a short essay/letter for the Writing test)Get feedback on your answers to practice questionsBecome more confident in your test-taking skillsHelp you decide if you are ready to take your IELTS testAsk us for more information about preparation courses near you
STEP 4: Try to feel relaxed on the day before you testOn the day before your test, take the time to refresh your memory of the test rules, test format and location so that you feel as relaxed as possible
Read the Information for candidates booklet again – this contains essential information to help you do your best
Make sure you know the test rules – read the Notice to Candidates
Get plenty of rest the night before your test
Plan your journey − ensure you are familiar with the location of the test venue and know how you are going to get there so that you arrive on time
STEP 5: Know what to expect on test day​​​