IELTS Exam Overview 2024

IELTS, representing the International English Language Testing System, is a globally recognised English language proficiency test jointly developed by the British Council, IDP Education, and Cambridge Assessment English. It is essential to acknowledge its significant position as the premier English language evaluation for those aspiring to work, study, or migrate to English-speaking nations like Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK, and the USA. This test diligently assesses your capabilities in listening, reading, writing, and speaking in English, ensuring that you are well-prepared for your endeavours in these countries.

With a grading system ranging from 1 to 9, IELTS stands as a beacon for many, especially those who dream of pursuing higher education or building a career in these nations. At AECC, we understand the importance of IELTS and how it can pave the way for your global ambitions. Keep reading this IELTS exam overview to learn more about the test.

The International English Language Testing System, more commonly known as IELTS, stands as a premier, globally acknowledged, and challenging English language examination. Crafted meticulously to gauge the English language prowess of individuals in environments where English dominates as the chief mode of communication, IELTS becomes a quintessential step for those eyeing opportunities abroad, be it for study or employment.

An impressive array of over 10,000 institutions spanning approximately 140 nations holds the IELTS in high regard, recognising its scores as a reliable metric of English competency. This vast acceptance network prominently includes academic institutions from countries renowned for higher education, such as Canada, the U.S., the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. Opting for the IELTS is undeniably a strategic move for aspirants, positioning themselves favourably in the global arena.

The IELTS, in its diverse offerings, can be put into two distinct categories to cater to the varied objectives and aspirations of candidates. Those categories are as follows:

Primarily tailored for students who harbour ambitions of pursuing their academic endeavours in English-dominant nations, the IELTS Academic stands as the gateway to such educational landscapes. This version delves deeper into assessing one's readiness for academic challenges in these countries.

On the other hand, the IELTS General Training test is structured for those individuals seeking migration. It encompasses all four pivotal components, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of the candidate's English proficiency, especially in contexts that align more with everyday life and work settings.

In terms of the grading spectrum, the IELTS employs a nuanced scoring system. While securing nine in all facets labels one as an 'expert user' of English, a score of seven resonates with being a 'good user'. Attaining a score of five designates one as a 'modest user' of the English language. Through these gradations, IELTS ensures a precise and detailed reflection of an individual's language competence.

While the IELTS exam dates for 2024 might be etched in your mind, selecting the appropriate test centre remains equally pivotal. Bangladesh offers a spectrum of venues where aspirants can undertake the IELTS examination. Here are the designated cities catering to IELTS candidates:

• Dhaka
• Chattogram
• Sylhet
• Barishal
• Khulna
• Cumilla
• Rajshahi

Each of these cities ensures standardised test environments, enabling candidates to give their best shot.

• Test Dates and Frequency: Throughout the year, IELTS aspirants can mark their calendars with a generous choice of dates. Specifically, the IELTS test is held up to four times monthly, summing up to a grand total of 48 potential test days annually.
• Examination Venues: Bangladesh is home to 14 dedicated IELTS examination centres, offering both paper-based and computer-delivered tests. It's paramount for candidates to choose a centre that resonates with their convenience, keeping in mind the test's availability.
• Result Timeline: The wait period for results varies based on the test format. For those who opt for the paper-based version, the results roll out 13 calendar days post-examination. On the other hand, the computer-based test takers can expect their results within a brisk window of 5-7 calendar days.
• Score Dispatch: After successfully navigating the IELTS, candidates have the provision to request up to five additional Test Report Forms (TRFs) to be shared with their chosen institutions within a month of the exam. If these TRFs are dispatched via courier, pertinent charges will apply.
• Score Validity: IELTS scores are not eternally valid. They come with a validity window, ensuring that they remain relevant for up to 2 years post-examination.

Keep your passport with you at all times throughout registration since you will need your passport number. Aside from that, you must bring your passport with you on the exam day. IELTS registration may be completed in three simple steps:

• Step 1: To begin, go to the official British Council registration website.
  
• Step 2: Sign up for a British Council account.
• Step 3: Locate the nearest testing facility.
• Step 4: Register for and pay for the IELTS exam online.
• Step 5: Find the preferred PTE exam appointment. Mention the preferred city and nearby test centres, along with the available PTE exam dates and time slots.
• Step 6: Those under the age of 18 must have their parents or guardians book the exam on their behalf. 

Once your registration is complete, your test centre will give you a written confirmation with the date and time of your IELTS exam.

• Navigating the IELTS journey? It's essential to be acquainted with its cancellation policy, which is straightforward but firm.
• Advance Cancellation: For those who foresee a change in plans and decide to cancel their IELTS registration well in time - specifically, more than five weeks ahead of the scheduled test date - there's a silver lining. While a cancellation will incur costs, you will be eligible for a refund. However, this comes with a catch: 25% of the total fee will be withheld as an administrative charge.
• Last-minute Cancellation: Life's unpredictability sometimes causes last-minute disruptions. However, if you decide to pull out of the IELTS examination less than five weeks prior to the test date, it's essential to be aware that no refunds will be granted.
• No-show Scenario: Missing the test without prior notice? This situation mirrors the last-minute cancellation policy, meaning you will forfeit the entire test fee.
• Medical Exemptions: Health always comes first. For candidates who face medical emergencies and can't take the test, there's a provision in place. By furnishing a valid medical certificate within 5 days after the test date, you can secure a refund. But remember, a nominal local administration fee will still be deducted.