IELTS is an English language test which

• tests all 4 language skills (listening, reading, writing, speaking)
• tests international English (no UK or US bias)
• has wide global recognition
• delivers results in 13 days
• and tests over 1.6 million candidates each year.

There are two different modules of IELTS:

It is the candidate’s responsibility to know or find out which module the institution or organisation requires him or her to sit.

• Academic module: usually required if you intend to study at undergraduate or postgraduate degree level.
• General Training module: usually required if you plan to go to English speaking countries to complete your secondary education, to undertake work experience or a training programme, or for immigration purposes.

The test is made up of four parts:

Find out more about how to understand the test format
You can’t fail IELTS - the test assesses all levels of English. Find out more about IELTS scores.

If you are familiar with the CEFR, this 2-page document will give you an indication of your IELTS band according to your CEFR level: CEF levels and IELTS bands (PDF 80KB).

IELTS is recognised by more than 6000 institutions across 120 countries.

Education
IELTS is recognised by many universities and Higher Education institutions both abroad and in Belgium.  It is used by Belgian students and institutions for

• entry to a number of university undergraduate or postgraduate degree courses taught in English (abroad or in Belgium)
• study placements with universities abroad
• and exit English language test from a university level course.

Please note that: IELTS is also widely accepted in the USA along with the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language).  Please refer to the full list of recognising institutions on the Take IELTS website

Immigration & work

IELTS is recognised by employers in many countries including Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the UK and the USA. It is also recognised by professional bodies, immigration authorities and other government agencies. Please refer to the full list of recognising institutions on the Take IELTS website: www.takeielts.britishcouncil.org

Interested in taking the IELTS test?

If you wish to apply to sit the IELTS exam, see our IELTS registration procedure section and our Frequently Asked Questions.

We advise you to register at least 6 to 8 weeks before the test date.

Find out more about publications, tips, courses and useful resources in our section Preparing for IELTS.

For more information contact us at exams@britishcouncil.be

If a session is full and the candidate cannot sit the test at another date at our centre, we will make a full refund of the fee paid.