Taking the IELTS test?
Taking the IELTS test?
If you are going to Canada to migrate, study or work, you may be required to take the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test to meet specific requirements for your programme. Many test takers, however, underestimate the amount of preparation needed to achieve high scores.
If you are migrating for example, receiving higher scores on the IELTS exam, may increase your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points, which in turn may increase your chances of being chosen to apply for permanent residency through the Express Entry system.
Knowing this, we have put together a few tips to help you prepare for the test:
- Understand the format:
The IELTS test is 2 hours and 45 minutes and comprises of the following 4 sections:
a) Listening – 4 sections, 40 questions, 30 minutes
b) Speaking – 3 parts, 11-14 minutes
c) Reading – 40 questions, 60 minutes
d) Writing – 2 tasks , 60 minutes
The Reading and Writing sections are different for Academic and General Training test, however the number of questions and length are the same. Overall, you can achieve scores between 1 and 9, with the possibility of receiving half scores.
2. Download preparation materials
Once you understand the format of the test, find study materials online to assist you in your preparation. The IELTS website itself provides sample questions:
https://www.ielts.org/about-
3. Practice!:
The only way to improve your chances of achieving high scores is to practice! You can practice by:
- Timing yourself when answering questions
- Making notes while listening to audio
- Reading English newspapers, magazines and novels to develop your vocabulary
- Practice speaking at length, tape yourself and listen to your intonation
Preparing for the IELTS test can take time, however with enough practice, you can achieve high scores.
About Us: Kari Davis is a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant and founder of Bison Immigration Consulting.
