If you're planning to take the IELTS exam this year, you're in the right place. The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a globally recognised English language proficiency test that is widely used for study, work, and immigration purposes. It is essential to familiarise yourself with the IELTS syllabus and exam pattern to ensure you are well-prepared and can perform at your best on exam day. In this blog, we will provide you with an overview of the IELTS syllabus and exam pattern for 2024. So, let's dive in and get you ready for success in your IELTS exam in 2024!
There are several types of IELTS exams, each designed for different purposes and individuals. The main types of IELTS are:
Each type of IELTS test has its own format, scoring, and specific requirements. It is important to determine which type of IELTS test you need to take based on your specific goals and requirements before registering for the exam.
You may either book your IELTS test online or visit your nearest IDP branch to book it offline. Here’s how:
If you're preparing for the IELTS exam. We have provided you with an overview of the latest IELTS syllabus and exam pattern, giving you the essential information, you need to ace your exam. Whether you're aiming for IELTS Academic or IELTS General Training, let's dive into what you can expect in 2024.
Duration: 30 minutes
Section 1 | A conversation between two people is set in an everyday social context, such as a conversation in an accommodation agency. |
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Section 2 | A monologue set in an everyday social context, like a speech about local facilities. |
Section 3 | A conversation between up to four people set in an educational or training context, such as a university tutor and a student discussing an assignment. |
Section 4 | A monologue on an academic subject, like a university lecture. |
Duration: 60 minutes
The Reading component of the test consists of 40 questions that cover a diverse range of reading skills. These questions are designed to assess your ability to comprehend the general idea, main concepts, details, and logical arguments in a text.
You will also need to identify the opinions, attitudes, and purpose of the writers. The question types used in this component vary to test different reading techniques, such as skimming and understanding the writer's perspective.
In the Academic version of the test, you will encounter three lengthy texts that encompass a wide range of styles, from descriptive and factual to discursive and analytical. These texts are authentic and have been sourced from books, journals, magazines, and newspapers.
While they are intended for a non-specialist audience, they are appropriate for individuals who are preparing for undergraduate or postgraduate courses or seeking professional registration.
The General Training version requires you to read extracts from books, magazines, newspapers, notices, advertisements, company handbooks, and guidelines.
These are materials you are likely to encounter on a daily basis in an English-speaking environment.
Duration: 60 minutes
The Academic version of the Writing component consists of two tasks, each addressing topics of broad relevance and suitability for individuals entering undergraduate or postgraduate studies, or those seeking professional registration.
Task 1 | Task 2 |
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The General Training version of the Writing component comprises two tasks that revolve around topics of general interest, designed to assess candidates' ability to communicate effectively in common real-life situations.
Task 1 | Task 2 |
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You will be presented with a situation and asked to write a letter requesting information or explaining the situation. The letter may be personal, semi-formal, or formal in style. | You will be asked to write an essay in response to a point of view, argument, or problem. The essay can be slightly more personal in style than the Academic Writing Task 2 essay. |
Duration: 11 to 14 minutes
The Speaking component of the test evaluates your proficiency in spoken English and typically takes about 11 to 14 minutes to complete. It is recorded for assessment purposes. Notably, the Speaking component is identical in both the Academic and General Training versions, similar to the Listening component.
Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 |
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You will be asked to answer general questions about yourself and a range of familiar topics, such as your home, family, work, studies, and interests. This part lasts between four to five minutes. | You will be given a card that asks you to talk about a particular topic. You will have one minute to prepare before speaking for up to two minutes. The examiner then asks you one or two questions on the same topic to finish this part of the test. | You will be asked further questions connected to the topic in Part 2. These questions give you an opportunity to discuss more abstract issues and ideas. |
Here are the tips and strategies to help you prepare effectively and confidently for the IELTS test, ensuring you are ready to achieve your desired score and excel in your language proficiency goals.
The General and Academic Training Reading tests are usually graded to the same level. However, the texts mentioned in the Academic Reading Test can be more challenging as compared to those mentioned in the General Training Test.
Ready to answer some sample test questions?
You can download our free IELTS Essentials preparation pack and take a look at some of the sample questions.
IELTS is scored on a scale of 0 to 9, with 0.5 increments. Each section (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking) receives a band score, and the overall band score is calculated as the average of the four section scores.
Yes, there is a time limit for each section of the IELTS test. The total test duration is approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes, with specific time allocations for each section.
The IELTS test includes a variety of question types, including multiple-choice, matching, sentence completion, summary completion, short answer, and essay writing. The question types may vary depending on the section of the test.
The IELTS score is valid for two years from the date of the test. After two years, the score expires and is no longer considered valid.
Yes, candidates can retake the IELTS test as many times as they want. However, there is a waiting period of 2-3 days between two consecutive tests, and candidates need to register and pay the test fee again for each attempt.