By persmind team IELTS Exam: Types (Academic / General), Band Scores 0–9, Dates, Fees, and Registration
Last updated: September 24, 2025
The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is one of the most widely recognized English proficiency tests for university admission, immigration, and employment around the world.
It is offered in two versions:
Academic – for higher education and professional registration
General Training – for migration and work purposes
The total test time is 2 hours and 45 minutes, covering four skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
Results are released faster on computer-based tests (1–5 days) compared to paper-based tests (up to 13 days).
What is IELTS? – Types and Structure
Types: Academic and General Training
Common structure: Listening / Reading / Writing / Speaking
(Only Reading and Writing sections differ between the two versions.)Duration: 2 hours and 45 minutes for both versions, regardless of location.
Formats: Available on paper, on computer, and as IELTS Online (Academic only) in selected countries.
Quick Tip: Understand the structure of each section before booking—familiarity with the format gives you a clear advantage.
Scoring (Band Scale 0–9)
Each skill—Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking—is graded on a 0–9 scale, and an Overall Band Score is calculated as the average of the four.
Listening and Reading each have 40 questions converted into the Band 0–9 scale (in 0.5 increments).
The official IELTS website provides detailed score conversion tables and Band Descriptors explaining each level.
Validity: IELTS results are generally valid for two years from the test date (some institutions may accept older scores depending on their policy).
Results: When and How to Receive Them
IELTS on Computer: Results in 1–5 days
IELTS on Paper: Results in up to 13 days
IELTS Online: Results usually in 6–8 days
You can view your results via the candidate portal and send official score reports to universities or institutions.
One Skill Retake
If you wish to improve only one skill (Listening, Reading, Writing, or Speaking), IELTS now allows a One Skill Retake at selected centers within 60 days of your full computer-based test.
IELTS Regular vs IELTS for UKVI
IELTS for UKVI is identical in content and scoring to the regular IELTS, but it is approved by the UK Home Office for visa and immigration purposes.
It is conducted in UKVI-approved test centers, and the Test Report Form (TRF) has a slightly different format.
Fees are usually slightly higher than the standard IELTS.
Fees and Dates (Vary by Country)
IELTS fees are not standardized globally—they are determined by local test centers.
Here are verified examples (for reference only—check your country’s page before booking):
Egypt (British Council / IDP):
Academic / General: EGP 8,600
IELTS for UKVI: EGP 9,850 (subject to change)
Italy (British Council):
Fees are listed in euros, varying by city and test date.
Always confirm your country’s latest schedule and fee structure on the official booking portal before registering.
Step-by-Step Registration Process
Create an account on the official booking page (British Council or IDP).
Choose your test type (Academic or General) and format (Paper / Computer / Online).
Select your test date and center, upload your ID document, and complete payment.
Review the test-day instructions (allowed documents, arrival time, regulations).
Focused 4–8 Week Preparation Plan
Week 1 – Diagnosis:
Take a full-timed mock test to identify your target Band and skill gaps.
Weeks 2–3 – Build Core Skills:
Listening: Practice daily using mixed accents and note key words.
Reading: Apply Skimming and Scanning techniques; manage timing for each passage.
Writing: Practice Task 1 & 2 (Academic) or Letters/Essays (General) with self-correction.
Speaking: Use structured responses (Introduction–Details–Conclusion) and learn linking words.
Weeks 4–5 – Simulation & Full Error Analysis:
Take two full mock tests (4 skills).
Record every mistake and the correct strategy.
Weeks 6–7 – Improve Accuracy & Speed:
Focus on your weakest question types (e.g., True/False/Not Given, Writing Task 2).
Consider planning a One Skill Retake if one skill needs a later boost.
Week 8 – Final Refinement:
Revise academic vocabulary lists and collocations.
Do light pronunciation and fluency drills for Speaking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which version should I take—Academic or General?
Academic: For university study or professional registration.
General Training: For immigration, work, or vocational programs.
Is IELTS Online accepted everywhere?
No. It’s available for Academic only and in selected countries—always confirm with your receiving institution.
When does my IELTS score expire?
Official recommendation: 2 years from the test date (some organizations may vary).
When will I get my results?
Computer: 1–5 days
Paper: Up to 13 days
Online: 6–8 days
Official and Trusted Links
Test format, types, and duration: takeielts.britishcouncil.org
Band scores 0–9 and conversion details: ielts.org
Result release times by format: idpielts.me
One Skill Retake information: ielts.org/one-skill-retake
Country-specific fees and dates (e.g., Egypt / Italy): British Council Country Pages
Conclusion
Define your target Band based on your institution’s or visa requirements, and choose the format that best suits your timeline (computer tests for faster results).
Register via your country’s official IELTS portal and follow a 4–8 week preparation plan with full simulations.
If you need to improve one skill later, take advantage of the One Skill Retake option to reach your desired score efficiently.