The IELTS Test Format is made in such a way to appreciate the four language skills to the full extend.
Total duration of the IELTS Test is 2:45.
The IELTS Test consists of 4 sections. There are four basic language skills that are estimated in each section respectively:
Listening — Time: 30 minutes
The listening test is played once only. During the test, time is given for candidates to listen to the record, read the questions and write down simultaneously. The questions are more complicated close to the end of the Test. When the recording ends, ten minutes are allowed for candidates to transfer their answers to an answer sheet.
The Academic and General Training Listening Tests are the same.
Reading — Time: 60 minutes
It is necessary to read a passage and answer 40 questions. There are different reading passages in the Reading section for the Academic and General Training Modules.
Academic IELTS Reading Section includes 3 units based on reading passages with 650-1000 words. Texts are taken from specialized journals and magazines.
General Training Reading Section includes 3 units based on several small reading passages of general topics.
Writing — Time: 60 minutes
The Writing Section includes two assignments which are different for the Academic and General Training Modules.
Academic Module:
- 1 assignment (150 words) — a report-analysis based on the description of a graph or graphical drawing.
- 2 assignment (250 words) — an essay.
General Training Module:
- 1 assignment (150 words) — a letter.
- 2 assignment (250 words) — an essay.
Speaking — Time: about 11-14 minutes.
Speaking involves having a conversation with a live examiner. It consists of 3 units:
1 — The acquaintance with an examiner and conversation on general topics.
2 — You are given a card with a particular topic which you should speak on a minute or more.
3 — The discussion of the topic with the examiner. The interview is recorded on a tape.
