Understanding the differences between IELTS Academic and General Training is the first step in deciding which test suits your needs. Let's explore...

IELTS Academic vs General Training

Test Purpose

IELTS Academic is for those planning to study at a university or institution, while General Training is for work, migration, or secondary education.

Reading and Writing Modules

IELTS Academic:  tasks are more complex and academic in nature. General Training:  tasks are geared towards everyday situations.

Listening and Speaking Modules

The listening and speaking modules are the same for both tests. They assess your general English language skills.

Scoring

The scoring is the same for both tests, with band scores ranging from 0 to 9.

Test Duration

Both tests have the same duration, approx. 2 hours and 45 minutes.

Choosing Right Test

Consider your goals. If you're migrating for work, choose General Training. For higher education, choose Academic.

Preparation

Tailor your preparation to match the test type. Academic requires academic language skills, while General Training focuses on practical language for everyday life.

Conclusion

Choosing the right IELTS test is crucial, as it ensures your test accurately reflects your language proficiency for your specific goals.