If you’re planning to study, work, or migrate to an English-speaking country, chances are you’ve come across the IELTS—short for International English Language Testing System. But what exactly is IELTS, and how do you crack it with confidence?
Let’s break it down.
What is IELTS?
IELTS is a globally recognized English proficiency test jointly managed by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia, and Cambridge English. It assesses your English skills across four key areas:
- Listening
- Reading
- Writing
- Speaking
There are two types of IELTS:
- Academic: For university or professional registration.
- General Training: For immigration or work-related purposes.
Why take the IELTS?
Whether you’re eyeing a spot at a prestigious university, applying for a visa, or seeking global job opportunities, IELTS can open doors. It’s accepted in over 140 countries by 11,000+ institutions, including universities, employers, and immigration bodies.
Test format at a glance
| Section | Duration | Description |
| Listening | 30 mins | 4 recordings with 40 questions |
| Reading | 60 mins | 3 passages with 40 questions |
| Writing | 60 mins | 2 tasks: a description/report & an essay |
| Speaking | 11–14 mins | A face-to-face interview divided into 3 parts |
Total Test Time: Around 2 hours and 45 minutes.
Scoring system
You receive a Band Score from 1 to 9 for each section and an overall band score (average of the four). Here’s a quick idea:
| Band Score | Proficiency Level |
| 9 | Expert |
| 8 | Very good |
| 7 | Good |
| 6 | Competent |
| 5 | Modest |
Most universities require a minimum of 6.5–7.5 for graduate programs, while immigration often requires 6.0+.
Top tips to prepare
- Know the format: Familiarity boosts confidence. Use IELTS-specific practice tests.
- Improve your English: Watch English media, read widely, and speak daily.
- Take mock tests: Simulate test conditions to improve time management.
- Use official materials: Cambridge IELTS books and the IELTS Prep App are gold.
- Join a prep course: Consider a course (online or offline) with personalized feedback.
- Work on weak areas: Struggling with writing or speaking? Focus there. Don’t just repeat what you’re already good at.
Common myths
1- “You need a British or American accent.”
No, you just need clear and understandable English.
2- “Only grammar matters.”
Vocabulary, coherence, and task response matter just as much.
3- “Practice tests are enough.”
They help, but you must actively improve your English overall.
Where can you take the test?
You can register online via:
- British Council Pakistan
- IDP IELTS
Test centers are available across all major cities in Pakistan. You can also opt for IELTS on Computer for faster results.
IELTS isn’t just about scoring high—it’s about proving that you’re ready to thrive in a new environment. With the right preparation and mindset, you can ace it.
If you’re just starting out and unsure where to begin, reach out to our IELTS prep team at LEAP Counsellors. We help students not just prepare, but strategically plan their target band, university applications, and beyond.
Need help?
Contact us via www.leapcounsellors.com
Or drop us a message to book a free diagnostic session!
Mishal Iftikhar
Learning & Development Specialist
CEO at LEAP