IELTS Test Format (Academic & General Training)
This page summarises the structure of the IELTS test, including timings, module differences, and how scores are reported.
IELTS at a Glance
The test covers four skills with the following typical timings:
- Listening — about 30 minutes
- Reading — 60 minutes
- Writing — 60 minutes
- Speaking — 11 to 14 minutes
Academic vs General Training
Listening and Speaking are the same for both modules. The main differences lie in Reading and Writing:
- Reading — Academic uses texts from books, journals, and research; General Training uses everyday materials such as notices, advertisements, and workplace documents.
- Writing — Academic Task 1 asks you to describe or summarise data in a chart, graph, or diagram; General Training Task 1 asks you to write a letter in response to a situation.
IELTS Academic is typically used for higher education and professional registration. IELTS General Training is typically used for migration and broad work-related contexts.
Current Delivery Options
IELTS announced that paper-based testing would be phased out from mid-2026, with the exact timetable varying by market. IELTS on computer is the standard direction of travel. In selected markets, IELTS on Computer – Writing on Paper lets candidates handwrite the Writing section while completing the other sections on computer. Speaking remains with an examiner, face-to-face or by video where offered. Always check the live options at the chosen test centre before booking; test content and scoring criteria remain the same across authorised delivery options.
How the Overall Band is Formed
Each of the four skills receives a band score from 0 to 9. The overall band score is calculated from the component scores, with equal weighting unless otherwise specified. For details on band descriptors and how performance maps to scores, see the Band Scores & Descriptors page.
Official IELTS format and preparation sources
Format, local delivery options, scoring policies and sample materials can change. Confirm booking decisions on current official pages and use official samples to learn the real task design.
IELTS is a registered trademark of Cambridge English, the British Council, and IDP Education Australia. This content is for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with the test owners.