IELTS

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is an internationally owned and globally recognised direct English language assessment of the highest quality and integrity readily available throughout the world.

IELTS is a highly dependable, practical and valid English language assessment primarily used by those seeking international education, professional recognition, bench-marking to international standards and global mobility.

IELTS is owned, developed and delivered through the partnership of the British Council, IDP Education Australia: IELTS Australia and the University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations.

What is IELTS?

IELTS is a comprehensive test of your English proficiency. IELTS measures your ability to communicate using all four language skills - Reading, Listening, Writing and Speaking - language skills international employers, education institutions and professional associations are demanding. In Cyprus, IELTS is widely recognised by government, employers and educational institutions.

The IELTS test is:

 Internationally recognised
 Results are issued 13 calendar days after the test
 Available in over 100 countries

Academic and General Training

IELTS is available in two formats - Academic and General Training.

The Academic Modules assess whether a candidate is ready to study or train in the medium of English at an undergraduate or postgraduate level. Admission to undergraduate and postgraduate courses should be based on the results of these modules.

The General Training Modules emphasise basic survival skills in a broad social and educational context. General Training is suitable for candidates who are going to English speaking countries to complete their Secondary education, to undertake work experience or training programmes not at degree level, or for immigration purposes to Australia, Canada and New Zealand.

Introduction of half bands for writing and speaking

As of 1 July 2007, IELTS applicants will be receiving Test Report Forms showing half bands in Writing and Speaking as well as in Listening and Reading. For test takers, their Test Report Form will give them a much more exact understanding of their language skills. Moreover, it will be easier to understand since all of the parts of the test will be reported in the same way.

For organisations and recognising institutions, this will enable them them to obtain more information on the speaking and writing ability of the candidates.

Applying for the test

You can find the IELTS application form on line (click here), visit our offices and ask to register at reception or telephone and ask for an application form to be sent to you through post.

It is advised that candidates provide on their application form an alternative date for taking the test in case the preferred test date is already fully booked.

Candidates should fill in an application form and send it to our offices together with two passport-sized photos and also candidates will need to attach a photocopy of their ID or passport. However we advise you to check whether there are places available on your preferred test date before you submit your application.

Candidates must present the same evidence of identity as the number entered on their application form. Also, candidates will need to bring their own pencils and pens. Candidates are not allowed to leave the test room during any module.

When can you take the test?

In Cyprus, IELTS tests take place in Nicosia. There has been a change of venue in Nicosia therefore please ensure that you ask for venue confirmation upon registration.

Early registration is recommended because there is a limited number of places.

The remaining dates for 2009 are as follows. Please note that following demand a session is now available for 19 December 09.

			Saturday 14 November				Academic
			Saturday 21 November				Academic & GT
			Saturday 5 December				Academic & GT
			Saturday 19 December				Academic

The dates for 2010 are as follows:

* Academic Module only.

How much does it cost to take an IELTS test?

The cost for registering for the IELTS test is €165.00. Candidates registering for test dates in 2010 will be required to pay €170. You can pay in to our Bank of Cyprus account or by cheque or cash at the British Council office in Nicosia.

Results

Results are issued 13 calendar dates after the test date and Test Report Forms (TRF) are sent to the candidates through registered post.

If you can't wait for your results to arrive in the post, the British Council offers you access to your IELTS test results online on the 13th day after your test date. All you have to do is go to http://ielts-results.britishcouncil.org, key in your name, ID/passport number, date of birth and session date.

Sending TRFs to Universities

We undertake to send up to 5 Test Report Forms to universities and institutions on behalf of candidates who have applied to attend courses. This is a free service.

Cancellation of entry

Candidates who wish to postpone or cancel their entry within 5 weeks of the test date will normally be charged the full fee unless they are able to provide appropriate medical evidence to support their request.

Enquiry on results

Candidates who are not happy with their results can apply for an enquiry on results procedure within four weeks of receipt of results. There is a fee for this service which is refunded should the band score be increased.

IELTS and the Council of Europe Framework

IELTS has been recently linked to the Council of Europe Framework which means that IELTS holders can use it for professional and educational recognition in the European Union.

Corresponding CEF LevelIELTS Approximate Band Score

			C2		7.5+
			C1		6.5/7.0
			B2		5.0/5.5/6.0
			B1		3.5/4.0/4.5
			A2		3.0

More information about IELTS is available on www.ielts.org. In addition, if you would like to find out more about IELTS, please contact:

Examinations Team
T +357 22 585100
F +357 22 585129
exams.enquiries@cy.britishcouncil.org

IELTS Specimen Materials

Candidates wishing to study on their own will find the IELTS Specimen Materials very useful. This is available through our Knowledge and Learning Centre at a cost of €26.00.

IELTS is not recommended for candidates under the age of 16.