IELTS measures the language proficiency of people who want to study or work where English is used as a language of communication. The IELTS test assesses your abilities in the English language through 4 components – listening, reading, writing and speaking. The test covers a range of subjects within the item contents, but you are not being tested on these subjects.

IELTS tests are designed to assess test takers from beginner through to advanced levels. However, the test is aimed at test takers with a level of intermediate and above.

You might not have to study at an English language school, however, you may consider practising with the IELTS preparation materials which will familiarise you with the types of questions you will be asked in the test and to get your best possible score.

IELTS is an international test, and we accept your accent wherever in the world you’re from. When you sit your Speaking test, remember that your pronunciation is important – however, you will not lose marks for speaking with an accent. A variety of accents will also be used during the Listening test.

You do not need any special computer skills. Please note that a QWERTY keyboard is used for the computer-delivered test. If you are not used to this type of keyboard, it may help to practice with one before you take the test. Don’t worry if you can’t type fast enough, the computer test is designed for people with normal typing skills.

The IELTS test is offered in two formats – IELTS Academic and General Training. The Academic format is designed for those who want to study or train in a university that teaches in English at undergraduate or postgraduate level or institutions of higher and further education. Many professions (e.g. medical, nursing, accounting, engineering) also require an Academic test result for registration purposes. The General Training format is for those who are going to English-speaking countries to do secondary education, work experience or training programs. This version of the test may be a visa requirement if you are planning to migrate to English speaking countries.

Whether you need an IELTS test or not depends on your reason to sit the test. If you are enrolling for higher studies/courses/training, the University/school/workplace might ask for an IELTS test score. As part of the migration process, you might have to provide the IELTS scores with your visa application. We strongly recommend that even if you are a native English speaker, you prepare for the IELTS test and become familiar with the test format. Knowing what to expect on test day is essential, and if you are not familiar with the test you may make avoidable mistakes. We also recommend you become familiar with the assessment criteria to fully understand how the examiner will mark your test. Download IELTS Support Tools to help you get ready for test day.

The cost of an IELTS test in Australia is $355.00*. The price for the exam is the same whether you take IELTS General Training or IELTS Academic. There is no separate registration fee or payment processing fee. There is also no late payment fee. However, in some locations, the test fee can be slightly higher. *From 1 September 2020, the IELTS test fee will increase to $375.00. The new test fee will only apply to test bookings from 1 October 2020. Any test dates prior to 1 October will not be subject to the fee increase. The prices are subject to change.