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:

• Recognised in over 135 countries
• Available in over 800 test centres and locations globally
• Taken by over a million candidates each year
• Results are issued 13 calendar days after the test
  

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.

Applying for the test

You can register online, just visit IELTS online registration. Please note that when you register online you should not fill in an IELTS application form in hard copy since this constitutes a double entry.

Alternatively you can visit our offices and ask to register at reception or telephone and ask for an application form to be sent to you by post.

It is advised that candidates provide on their application form an alternative date for taking the test in case their 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. Important information regarding photos: Please note that applicants who wear spectacles need to remove these when having their passport photo taken.

Moreover, candidates will need to attach a photocopy of their ID or passport. Before submitting your application form we advise you to check whether there are places available on your preferred test date. Candidates registering online will be able to choose a session with available places.

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 mainly in Nicosia but also other towns depending on student demand. Confirmation regarding the venue of the examination and the speaking test is sent via e-mail. Candidates should ensure that they provide a valid e-mail address.
Moreover, it is imperative that candidates open and read the attachments carefully prior to the test date since they contain important information.

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

The dates for 2012 are as follows:

Dates marked with * are Academic module only.

How much does it cost to take an IELTS test?

The cost for registering for the IELTS test is €175.  Please note from 01 January the IELTS test fee will be €185.  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 CEFR Level IELTS Approximate Band Score

Information about this is available on http://takeielts.britishcouncil.org/.

In addition, if you would like to find out more about IELTS in Cyprus, please contact:

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

IELTS Preparation Materials and Top Tips for IELTS

Candidates wishing to study on their own will find the IELTS Specimen Materials very useful. This is available at our Customer Services desk at the cost of €26.00.
Top Tips for IELTS now available through our Knowledge and Learning Centre at the cost of €20.

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