Sections

Note: The IELTS has two versions: “Academic” and “General Training”, for two different measurement purposes. The only modules that have both versions are Reading and Writing. Since we prepare candidates only for the Academic version, we refer exclusively to those Reading and Writing modules here.

Listening

The listening module takes about 30 minutes. There are 40 questions distributed over four sections. This material will be heard on a tape that will be played once only. 
The first two sections are concerned with social needs. There is a conversation between two speakers and then a monologue. 
The final two sections are concerned with situations related more closely to educational or training contexts. There is a conversation among up to four people and then a further monologue. 
Time is given in the test for candidates to read the questions and write down and check their answers.

Reading

The Reading Module takes 60 minutes. There are 40 questions based on 3 reading passages with a total of between 2,000 and 2,750 words. Both the Academic Reading and the General Training Reading modules have the same format. 
Academic Reading: Texts are taken from magazines, journals, books, and newspapers. The texts are for non-specialist readers. At least one text contains detailed logical argument. One text may contain diagrams, graphs, or illustrations.

Writing

This module takes 60 minutes, and there are two tasks to complete. It is suggested that about 20 minutes be spent on Task 1 (at least 150 words) and about 40 minutes on Task 2 (at least 250 words). 
Academic Writing: In Task 1 candidates must look at a diagram or table and present the information in their own words. They may be asked to describe or explain data or the stages of a process, how something works, or an object or event. 
In Task 2 candidates are presented with a point of view or an argument or a problem. Part of the task is to respond appropriately in terms of register, rhetorical organisation, style, and content.

Speaking

The Speaking Module takes between 11 and 14 minutes and consists of an oral interview which is recorded on an audio cassette. 
In Part 1 candidates answer general questions about themselves, their homes and families, their jobs or studies, their interests, and a range of familiar topic areas. (4-5 minutes).
In Part 2 the candidate is given a verbal prompt on a card and is asked to talk on a particular topic. He or she has one minute to prepare before speaking for between one and two minutes on the topic. The examiner then asks a few rounding-off questions. 
In Part 3 the examiner and candidate discuss more abstract issues and concepts thematically linked to the topic prompt in Part 2. (4-5 minutes).