The Complete Guide to the IELTS Exam for Indian Students

The Complete Guide to the IELTS Exam for Indian Students

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is one of the most widely accepted English proficiency tests for students and professionals aspiring to study, work, or migrate to English-speaking countries like the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. If you are an Indian student planning to take the IELTS, this guide will answer all your questions and help you prepare effectively.

What is the IELTS Exam?

The IELTS exam assesses a candidate’s English proficiency in four key areas: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The test is accepted by over 11,000 institutions worldwide, including universities, immigration authorities, and employers.

Why Should Indian Students Take the IELTS?

1. Required for International University Admissions – Most universities in English-speaking countries require IELTS scores for admission.
2. Visa and Immigration Requirements – Many countries, including Canada, the UK, and Australia, require IELTS for student and work visas.
3. Job Opportunities – IELTS scores help professionals seeking jobs in English-speaking countries.
4. Alternative to Other English Tests – Some universities accept IELTS instead of TOEFL or PTE.

Types of IELTS Exams

There are two types of IELTS exams:

1. IELTS Academic – For students applying for undergraduate or postgraduate courses in foreign universities. This test can help you secure university acceptance, student visas and prove your English ability to professional organisations.

1. IELTS General Training – For those applying for work, immigration, or training programs abroad. This test measures your English proficiency in the workplace and is often useful to prove your level when applying for a new position in an English-speaking organisation or a company.

IELTS Exam Pattern

The IELTS exam consists of four sections, with a total test duration of 2 hours 45 minutes.

1. Listening Section

• Number of Questions: 40
• Duration: 30 minutes
• Format:
• Four recorded conversations (monologues and dialogues)
• 4 sections with 10 questions each
• Questions include multiple-choice, sentence completion, and labelling a diagram based on the recordings

This module evaluates your ability to comprehend spoken English in various accents and contexts (lectures, conversations, monologues)

2. Reading Section

• Number of Questions: 40
• Passages: 3 (800 word, Topic- Authentic text)
• Duration: 60 minutes
• Format:
• Academic IELTS: Three long texts from books, journals, newspapers
• General IELTS: Extracts from advertisements, notices, and newspapers
• Questions include multiple-choice, matching headings, and True/False/Not Given

The Reading section tests your comprehension skills by presenting a variety of academic and general texts. You will be challenged to identify the main idea, supporting details, and specific information within the passages through a range of question formats. 

3. Writing Section

• Number of Tasks: 2
• Duration: 60 minutes
• Format:
• Task 1: Report writing (20 mins of 150 words) – You have to describe some visual information in your own words (eg. A graph, table chart, or a diagram)
• Task 2: Write an essay presenting an argument or viewpoint. (40 mins, 250 words)

This module assesses your written English skills in terms of task achievement, grammar, vocabulary and coherence.

4. Speaking Section

• Duration: 11–14 minutes
• Format: In person interview
• Part 1: General questions about yourself, family, hobbies
• Part 2: Speak on a given topic for 2 minutes
• Part 3: Discussion on abstract topics related to Part 2

The Speaking section module evaluates your spoken English fluency and communication skills in one-on-one interview setting. Expect an introductory conversation, questions about familiar topics and a discussion of a specific topic in some detail.

Note: The Listening, Reading and Writing sections take place on the same day with no breaks in between. The speaking section may be scheduled on the same day or upto 7 days before or after the other sections.

Scoring System

• The IELTS score ranges from 0 to 9.
• Most universities require a minimum band score of 6.0 to 7.5.
• Some top universities demand 7.0+ in each section.

IELTS band score (Example of a band score of a particular section, in this case Listening)

IELTS Score Requirement by Country

                                                                                                                        Source: Shiksha

IELTS Eligibility Criteria for Indian Students

• Who Can Take the IELTS? Anyone aiming for higher education, work, or immigration in English-speaking countries.
• Age Limit: No official age limit, but it is recommended for students above 16 years.
• How Many Times Can You Attempt? There is no restriction on the number of attempts.
• Validity of Scores: IELTS scores are valid for 2 years.

How to Register for the IELTS in India?

1. Visit the Official IELTS Website (https://www.ielts.org/)
2. Choose Your Test Type (Academic or General)
3. Select a Test Centre (Available in major Indian cities)
4. Pick a Test Date
5. Pay the Exam Fee (₹17000, subject to change)
6. Receive Confirmation & Admit Card

IELTS Exam Dates in India

The IELTS is conducted multiple times a month in major Indian cities. It is recommended to book your slot at least 2 months in advance.

Check the latest dates on the British Council or IDP websites.

How to Prepare for IELTS?

1. Best Study Resources for Indian Students

• Official IELTS Practice Tests (Available on IELTS.org)
• Books:
• The Official Cambridge Guide to IELTS
• Barron’s IELTS Superpack
• Collins English for IELTS
• Apps:
• IELTS Prep by British Council
• Practice Tests: Take at least 5–7 full-length tests before the exam.

2. Study Plan for Indian Students

How to Send IELTS Scores to Universities?

• You can send your first 5 score reports for free during registration.
• Additional score reports cost ₹250–₹1,250 per university.

IELTS vs TOEFL: Which One Should Indian Students Take?

If you prefer face-to-face speaking tests and shorter duration, IELTS is a better option. If you are comfortable with computer-based exams, TOEFL might be suitable.

FAQs for Indian Students

1. Is the IELTS Difficult for Indian Students?

No, but it requires practice. Indian students often score lower in Writing and Speaking, so focused preparation is needed.

2. Can I Take IELTS Without Coaching?

Yes, self-study with proper materials and mock tests is enough for a high score.

3. How Many Times Can I Attempt IELTS?

There is no limit to the number of attempts.

4. How Much Score is Required for a Good University?

Most universities require 6.5–7.5 bands overall, but top universities ask for 7.0+ in each section.

5. When Should I Take the IELTS?

The best time is 3–6 months before applying to universities.

Final Thoughts

The IELTS is a crucial step for Indian students planning to study abroad. With proper preparation, you can achieve a high score and unlock opportunities in top global universities.

Start early, practice regularly, and aim for your dream score!

With inputs from Purbayan Dhar

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