The International English Language Testing System is an international standardized test of English language proficiency for non-native English language speakers. It is jointly managed by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia and Cambridge Assessment English and was established in 1989. IELTS is one of the major English-language tests in the world.

• Mandatory for immigration purposes in English Language speaking countries.
• No student visa without IELTS scores.
• Jointly owned and administered by the University of Cambridge- Local Examination Syndicate, The British Council and the IDP Education Australia.
• Application forms and handbooks can be collected from the local British Council office or nearest IDP Education Australia office.
• Test available world-wide in more than 110 countries.

Sections of the IELTS:

• A 30-minute Listening Section
• A 60-minute Reading Section
• A 60-minute Writing Section
• A 11-14 minute Speaking Section

Modules of IELTS:

Academic module: The ability of the candidate to use the level of language necessary for the specific course of study is evaluated.

General Module: The ability of the candidate seeking work-related training or migrating to any English speaking countries is evaluated.
The listening and speaking modules are mandatory
 A physical or virtual face-to-face interview is conducted for testing the speaking proficiency of the candidate.
Total test time for the test is 2 hours 44 minutes
    

Scoring pattern in the IELTS
a.    Score given for each band
b.    Summation of the scores from each band and getting average of the scores.
c.    Each band signifies the standard of English of the candidate.
d.    Availability of total 9 bands
e.    Band 1 indicates for non-user while band 9 indicates expert users.
f.    6 - 6.5 is the score demanded by most institutes.
g.    Score is received within two weeks of the test undertaken.
h.    Score is valid for 2 years only.
i.    If dissatisfied with the score, retaking the test can be done, but after at least 3 months of the first test.