Inside the IELTS Listening Test
Time allowed: Approximately 30 minutes
The Listening section is divided into four parts, each containing 10 questions. The questions follow the order of the recording, making it easier to track the answers as you listen.
Parts 1 & 2: Everyday Social Contexts
Deals with everyday, social situations. There is a conversation between two speakers in Part 1 (for example, a conversation about travel arrangements). Only one person speaks in Part 2 (for example, a speech about local facilities).
Parts 3 & 4: Academic and Training Settings
Deals with educational and training situations. In Part 3 there is a conversation between two main speakers (for example, two university students in discussion, perhaps guided by a tutor). In Part 4 only one person speaks on an academic subject.
You will hear the recordings once only. Different accents, including British, Australian, New Zealand and North American, are used.
You will need to transfer your answers to an answer sheet. You will have 10 minutes at the end of the test to do this. You should be careful when writing your answers on the answer sheet because you will lose marks for incorrect spelling and grammar.
What Does the IELTS Academic Reading Section Include?
Time allowed: 60 minutes (including transfer time)
The reading materials in the IELTS Academic test are sourced from books, journals, magazines, newspapers, and reputable online platforms. They are written for a general audience, making them accessible to students at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Topics span a wide range of academic interest and may be presented in various styles—narrative, descriptive, discursive, or argumentative. At least one passage will feature a structured logical argument. Some texts may also include visual elements such as diagrams, graphs, or illustrations. If technical terms are used, simple definitions are provided to aid understanding.
Answer Sheet Guidelines
You must transfer all your answers to the official answer sheet within the 60-minute test duration. Unlike the Listening section, no extra time is given for this step. Accuracy matters—spelling and grammar errors will result in lost marks, so take care when completing your answer sheet.
What Does the IELTS Academic Writing Section Include?
Time allowed: 60 minutes
The IELTS Academic Writing section includes two compulsory tasks:
Task 1
You’ll be asked to describe visual data—such as a graph, table, chart, or diagram—in your own words. Your response should be at least 150 words, and you’re advised to spend around 20 minutes on this task.
Task 2
You’ll be presented with a point of view, argument, or problem to discuss. Your essay should be at least 250 words, with approximately 40 minutes allocated for completion.
You must write your answers using full sentences. You must not write your answers as notes or bullet points. You must write your answers on the answer sheet. You are allowed to write notes on the question paper, but these will not be seen by the examiner.
What Does the IELTS Academic Speaking Section Include?
Time allowed: 11-14 minutes
The IELTS Speaking test is conducted as a face-to-face interview between the candidate and a certified examiner. This interaction is recorded to ensure accuracy and quality in assessment. The test is divided into three distinct parts, each designed to evaluate different aspects of your spoken English. Every section follows a structured format, allowing examiners to assess your ability to communicate effectively across a range of topics and situations.
