IELTS – What’s the brouhaha?

Let’s get this straight. IELTS or International English Language Testing System is a simple test – keyword being simple – to test the language ability of those who want to study / work where English is used as a primary language of communication.

IELTS is not to be confused with the challenging levels of CET, CAT, JEE, etc. exams.

The purpose of IELTS is quite simple. The country where you may live for graduation / post-graduation studies want to be sure that you have the English language speaking, writing, reading and understanding abilities. They are not expecting you to be an English literature genius – remember this while you prepare and appear for your IELTS test.

So then, let’s get down to brass tracks. The test is on 4 parameters: listening, reading, writing and speaking. The test duration is three hours; 40 mins. are allocated for listening, followed by one hour each for reading & writing, concluding with speaking for the remaining 20 mins. Cumulative score or band of 6.5+ is acceptable in most countries.

Different people have different types of difficulty. For some reading is challenging, and for some writing or speaking is. Listening is considered to be easiest part of the test by most people. So how to figure out your strengths and weaknesses, and how to ensure you achieve a band of 6.5 or higher?

The answer is simple – practice.

Read aloud from a newspaper or a book – this would cover aspects of reading and speaking. Listen to the news anchor on an international news channel or an audio-book attentively. Take a book – any book – and write 300+ words of what’s written in it.

These practice methods are a great starting point to get you comfortable and internalize the aspects of IELTS test. And do you think any of them are as intimidating as many misconceive to be?

Of course, you may want to consider enrolling in IELTS classes to further your chances of achieving band of 6.5 or higher.

Good luck for your IELTS and for your overseas education aspirations.

10 tips to ace your IELTS test and getting a high band score

International English Language Testing System – more commonly known as IELTS is the world’s most popular English language proficiency test for higher education and global migration. More than 3 million people give the IELTS each year. If you are looking to work, live or study in an English-speaking country, then you must be able to demonstrate a high level of English language ability. That’s where the IELTS test comes in.

Giving the test can be intimidating but don’t sweat! Here are our top 10 tips for students to clear the IELTS test:

1. Register for the test!

Okay, that is not really a tip. The tip is to register for the test on a date which you are comfortable with; given that you will need to prepare for the same. Understand how much time you will need to prepare and apply accordingly.

2. Start your preparation early by learning about the test structure

Now that you have decided to give the IELTS test, you should be aware of the format of the test, types of questions, breaks, duration etc. Make sure you are up-to-date with latest information. Read here for more info.

3. Give an initial mock test to know where you stand

It’s important to do a self-assessment by giving a mock test for IELTS so that you know how much you already know and how prepared you are. This will also tell you if you need coaching classes especially if your exam dates are closer.

You can check out our IELTS coaching program while you are at it. We have expertly trained teachers for individually focused and interactive learning.

4. Set a learning strategy according to your goals

Is your goal to achieve a band score higher than 7? That’s awesome! Now you have to work for it. Define your learning strategy and how you will achieve this goal, either by yourself or with the help of your coaching classes.

5. Use varied and authentic materials for studying

Use proper books advised by your teachers in your preparation of the test. Apart from that, listen to BBC radio to get used to the accent and other podcasts and TV shows in English language.

6. Practise every day!

This point is the key in achieving a higher band score. Write 1 essay every day and read books by established authors. Try to take notes and find out meaning of difficult words. This may seem like a small thing but it will help you in the long run when you are abroad for study or work.

7. Speak to your family & friends in English as much as possible

Like practising to read and write, it’s important to practise speaking as well, first because there’s a ‘Speaking’ test section as well in the IELTS and, also because as mentioned in the previous tip, it will be helpful to you in the long run. To converse easily with your fellow peers, teachers and generally the people you will meet abroad!

8. Pay close attention to your grammar!

Oh, this could be a make-or-break thing for your test. Pay extra attention to improving your grammar. This is necessary not just for written test but the speaking test as well.

9. Take mock tests often and learn from your mistakes

You should often take mock tests to evaluate your progress and to see how much improvement is still needed. If you have enrolled in a class, your teachers will give you these tests periodically and help you learn from your mistakes so that you can achieve your goal.

10. Learn the exam approach

Giving so many mock tests will familiarize you with the exam format and how to approach the test. You will learn to prioritize and answer the questions proficiently.

11. Consider IELTS test as a job interview

Now that you are prepared academically, you should also prepare yourself mentally for the IELTS test. Treat it like an important job interview. Prepare well, rest up the night before, arrive early and dress your best with a smile.

12. Do not be nervous

There’s no need to sweat! You have prepared well in advance; you have aced your mock tests and your teachers are confident in you. That’s it! You are all set. Just be confident through out and give it your best shot.

We are confident that following these tips should land you a higher band score with no problem!

We, at Eleevate Overseas have started enrolment for IELTS coaching. You will get to learn from certified IDP Australia, British Council and Pearson Advanced English Trainers. Get in touch with us today and book your slot!

Category: IELTS