Language and the IELTS Test

IELTS Language – Immigration Lawyer Sydney

IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is a test to measure an individual’s ability with English language. A migrant has to achieve a certain level of competency, as measured by the IELTS, to be eligible for study or work in Australia. Even if a migrant does not work or study the IELTS test can still be important, as it counts towards the point they need for immigration.

There are two main variations of the IELTS test, general and academic. Those who want a student VISA should look at the academic test.

The IELTS test has 4 sections. Candidates must perform reasonably well on all sections. A high result in one section will only be of limited benefit, and not really compensate for a poor performance in other sections.

The sections are:

• Speaking – Answering oral questions, including the reasons for taking IELTS, and responding to an interview. Approx. 15 minutes.
• Listening – required to answer questions to show their level of comprehension. The questions are set first, so the candidate knows what to listen for.
• Writing – A one hour test with two sections. Answers must be complete (structured and ending with a conclusion) and exceed a minimum word count of 150 and 250 words.
• Reading – Answer 40 questions from a text of over 2000 words. Approx. 1 hour.

 

A large portion of the test is handwritten. It is quite possible for poor handwriting to compromise the result of the IELTs test.

 

Different areas of study in Australian Universities require different IELTS results. This depends on the both the institution and the area of study. Often an individual will be eligible for some areas of study with an IELTS of 6.5 minimum more in all 4 sections. Some universities require 7.0 or more averaged over all 4 sections. More advanced areas of study, or areas more focused on English language, may require higher scores.

The minimum IELTS result for academic study in an area and the minimum IELTS result for practicing in that same area may be different. You may need a result of 6.5 to study dentistry, and later need a result of 7.0 to be a practicing dentist.

Some alternatives to the IELTS test are:

• TOEFL (Test of English As a Foreign Language)
• The DET (Duolingo English Test)
• PTE (Pearson Test of English)

Some of these tests are computer based rather than handwritten. Individuals with good typing skills might perform better on these computer-based tests, some or which can be performed at home with online internet/skype monitoring. Otherwise, IELTS is considered slightly easier than TOEFL.

The IELTS test will cost about AUD$400.oo, as of 2022. Other tests are similar in cost.

Immigration Lawyer Sydney

Immigration for work or study will usually require proof of language skill. Talk to us about legal Visa advice.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Disclaimer: The information in this article is provided for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. No individual should take, or refrain from taking, any action solely based on the material contained in this article. While we aim to offer accurate and timely information, we cannot guarantee its accuracy on the date of receipt or in the future. If you require more information or seek relevant legal advice specific to your circumstances, please contact our office.