What is IELTS?
The International English Language Testing System, or IELTS™, 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 English Language Assessment, and was established in 1989. IELTS is one of the major English-language tests in the world. 
IELTS measures the language proficiency of people who want to study or work where English is used as a language of communication. It uses a nine-band scale to clearly identify levels of proficiency, from non-user (band score 1) through to expert (band score 9).
Migrating to the UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand OR studying in the USA?
IELTS is accepted as evidence of English language proficiency for study, work and migration in Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the UK, as well as for study and work in the USA.
Each country sets its own IELTS requirements. For up-to-date information, please visit the relevant government websites.
UK
Evidence of English language ability is a requirement for those applying to settle permanently in the UK (also known as applying for ‘leave to remain’ or ‘long residence’).
Canada
If you are applying for a work visa, professional recognition or for permanent residency in Canada, it is likely that you will be required to present evidence of English language proficiency. IELTS General Training is the only internationally available English proficiency test accepted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for immigration to Canada.
Australia
IELTS is accepted for many visa categories, as well as for permanent residency in Australia. It is also a requirement for some Australian professional organisations and accrediting bodies.
New Zealand
The New Zealand government asks for IELTS as evidence of English language proficiency for many visas, including those within the Skilled Migrant, Investor and Entrepreneur, Residence from Work and Parent categories.
Types of IELTS tests
IELTS General Training
This IELTS test is suitable for those applying to train or study at below degree level, as well as those wishing to migrate to Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the UK. The test focuses on basic survival skills in broad social and workplace contexts.
IELTS Academic
The IELTS Academic test is suitable for entry to study at undergraduate or postgraduate levels, and also for professional registration purposes. It assesses whether you are ready to begin studying or training in an environment where English language is used, and reflects some of the features of language used in academic study.
Employers, professional bodies and associations accept IELTS
Professional registration
In most countries where English is the main language of communication, evidence of acceptable English language skills is a prerequisite for applicants and international graduates seeking professional registration. Required proficiency levels vary between organizations, professions, by country and by jurisdiction. It is up to individual professional registration bodies to determine the IELTS band score and version of the test (Academic or General Training) they require.
IELTS for vocational training
The General Training version of IELTS measures English language proficiency in a practical, everyday context and the tasks and texts reflect both workplace and social situations.
This is the version of the test usually required for vocational training, for example in the construction, hospitality and leisure, and tourism industries.
Where do I write IELTS?
Choose from more than 1,600 test locations in over 140 countries/territories. Find your nearest test location HERE