How to prepare for IELTS?

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a prerequisite for applying to universities in Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the U.K. With so much riding on this language proficiency test, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, indeed unprepared. However, with adequate preparation and knowledge of what you’re about to face before D-Day, you’ll be well on your way to securing the score required to shift gears in your admission process.

Understand the test formats

Familiarize yourself with the standard IELTS format. Regardless of whether your test is paper-based or electronic, there is no change in format or level, so don’t let that deter you. The four modules of the test are: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. The first three will be conducted on the same day, one after the other. The Speaking test is scheduled at a time and date of your choice and will be a face-to-face interaction with an IELTS examiner. In total, you can expect the entire test experience to take just under three hours. 

Practice with a sample booklet

Consider setting up a mock exam for yourself to be able to go through the sample test material within the same time frame as the actual exam. This will allow you to get accustomed to the kind of questions you’ll see and the answers you’ll be expected to give. Further, by putting yourself through a time-bound mock test, you’re less likely to be overwhelmed by nerves during the actual test day. You’ll also understand how best to pace yourself according to your speed of answering.

Take a preparation course

Many test-takers find that attending an additional preparation course at an IELTS centre or a language school helps to drastically improve their performance and score. If you find that a little help wouldn’t go amiss, consider signing up for these preparation courses– they’re specifically designed to cater to IELTS test takers. Even if you’re a proficient English user, this would prove helpful in familiarizing yourself with the test material and interacting with other test-takers in the language. You might even find that the tips and tricks you pick up during the courses help you ace the test on D-Day.

Prepare for the test day

Besides actually taking the test, there are a few more formalities that you’ll need to go through on the day. You will need to arrive a few hours beforehand to have your details registered. To make this process faster, make sure you have all the identification documents you used while filling out the application form. Ensure that you carry a pen, a pencil and an eraser with you– do not bring anything else as these are the only items, you’re allowed to have with you. Turn off your cell phone and keep them in your bag or in the locker provided outside the examination hall. 

You may wish to put on a watch– however, there usually is a digital clock on the wall for you to pace yourself during the test.

Practice outside test material

Since improving on a language is a long-drawn process, it helps to hone your skills ahead of time and outside of the test material and requirements. You could do this by reading English books, speaking in English or listen to everyday conversations between friends in English. Familiarize yourself with a variety of English accents– British, Australian, Canadian and American for starters. Pay attention to context while reading to be able to skim over content and save time during the test.

Practice goes a long way in preparing for the IELTS– so does confidence!