IELTS exam pattern
How the four sections are structured, timed and marked, with what to expect on test day. This guide is part of our full IELTS guide.
Structure of the IELTS
Listening, Reading and Writing are taken in one sitting with no breaks. Speaking is a face-to-face or video interview with a trained examiner, scheduled up to a week either side. Computer-delivered IELTS offers more dates and faster results; content and scoring are identical.
| Section | What it tests | Questions | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Listening | 4 recordings: a conversation, a monologue, an academic discussion and a lecture | 40 | 30 minutes plus 10 to transfer (paper) |
| Reading | 3 long passages (Academic) or several shorter texts (General) | 40 | 60 minutes |
| Writing | Task 1: describe a chart or write a letter (150 words); Task 2: essay (250 words) | 2 | 60 minutes |
| Speaking | Face-to-face interview in 3 parts: introduction, cue card talk, discussion | 3 parts | 11 to 14 minutes |
Types
IELTS Academic
For university admission and professional registration. Reading and Writing use academic texts and tasks.
IELTS General Training
For migration and work. Everyday texts and a letter-writing task.
IELTS for UKVI
The same test taken at a UKVI-approved centre, needed for some UK visa routes such as pre-sessional English and below-degree courses.
Questions
Which IELTS should I take for a UK university?
IELTS Academic for degree-level study. IELTS for UKVI Academic only if your university or visa route requires it, typically for pre-sessional English or below-degree courses.
What is a good IELTS score?
6.5 overall with no band below 6.0 satisfies most universities. Health, law and teaching programmes ask for 7.0.
How long are IELTS results valid?
Two years from the test date. Universities usually require the score to be valid on the course start date.
Can I study in the UK without IELTS?
Many universities accept Medium of Instruction letters, school English marks or alternatives like PTE and Duolingo. Check each course.
How many times can I take IELTS?
As many as you like. Results from different sittings cannot be combined.