Prepare for IELTS

Prepare for IELTS - Test Formats, Sample questions

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is the world’s most popular high-stakes English language proficiency test for study, work and migration, with more than three million tests taken in the past year. To ensure you score well in the exam, it is crucial to start your IELTS preparation well in time. It is a three hour test that evaluates you on all four language skills - listening, reading, writing, and speaking.Here are some pointers to help you score well in your IELTS exam:

Understand the test format

Make yourself familiar with the IELTS test format. There are two modules of IELTS:

• IELTS Academic

  – If you are planning to study at undergraduate or postgraduate level or join a professional organisation in an English speaking country, IELTS Academic is for you.

• IELTS General Training

  – If you wish to migrate or train/study below degree level, opt for this module.

For both the IELTS tests, speaking and listening sections remain the same but reading and writing sections are different.Also, IELTS is available on paper and on computer – get acquainted with the medium of taking the test using our sample tests and familiarisation videos.

Practise IELTS sample questions

Use the IELTS preparation books provided at the time of test registration. You can either download the books online or get them at the IDP registration centres.

• Analyse each question well, take notes, underline keywords and plan your answers accordingly. Follow this simple activity throughout your practice sessions to score well.

• Ask your mentors for feedback and improve upon on areas you lack.

• Take sample mock tests to time yourself. Find some here.

Enhance your English language skills

Improving on a language takes time, and so it is important that you start working on your skills ahead in time. Make use of these handy tips:

• Read, write and speak in English as much as possible. Make it a part of your daily life.

• Create a group of friends and practise speaking in English.

• Read English newspaper and listen to English news channels or radio.

• Try listening to a variety of English accents – British, Australian, American, British, New Zealand and Canadian.

• Watch English movies with subtitles.

• Read extensively to develop your reading speed.

• Learn to understand context to be able to scan the available content for answers.

• Start paying attention to your grammar, spelling and vocabulary.

• Learn to be precise, relevant and within the required word count.

Stay calm before the test day

Refresh all test rules and IELTS format to ensure you haven’t missed anything out. Have proper meals and sleep well before the test to keep fresh and active during the exam. Also, leave a little early to avoid any traffic on the way to your test centre.

On the day of your IELTS test

Keep in mind these little pointers to stay calm during the test and give it your best shot:

• Ensure that you carry your relevant ID proofs. Carry the same identification document as used at the time of test application.

• Be attentive when the supervisor is giving instructions, ask again if you have any doubts.

• Try to attempt all questions as there is no negative marking.

• Do not try to cheat or copy any other student’s work.

• Leave your belongings outside the examination hall, as directed by the supervisor.

• Do not take back the question paper or answer sheet with you.

• Seek your supervisor’s permission before leaving the room.

Feel free to contact IDP Nepal team for any further assistance on IELTS test preparation. You can call us at 977-1-4217800 anytime from Monday to Friday, 9.00 am to 5.30 pm. Mail at ielts.nepal@idp.com