Frequently Asked Questions



		IELTS dates and prices


		Preparing for IELTS


		Enquiry on results guidelines for test centres


		USA says yes to IELTS


		FAQ

	Frequently Asked Questions


	International English Language Testing System

		What does the IELTS exam consist of and how long does it take?

- Listening: 40 minutes
- Reading: 60 minutes
- Writing: 60 minutes
- Speaking: 11 - 14 minutes

The test takes the form of a face-to-face interview, that is scheduled either one week before or one week after the test day, could be any day between Monday-Saturday.

IELTS is available in two formats:

Academic Module
Assesses wether a candidate is ready to study or train in the medium of English at an undergraduate or postgraduate level. IELTS academic module is a requirement for Chevening Scholarship applicants.
General Module
Suitable for candidates who are going to English speaking countries to complete their seconday education, to undertake work experience or training programmes not at a degree level, or for immigration purposes to Australia, Canada and New Zeland.

		How is the IELTS examination marked?

	Candidates receive scores on a Band Scale from 1 to 9. A score is reported for each test component. The individual test scores are then averaged to produce an Overall Band Score.

		WHAT IS THE PREPARATORY COURSE FOR THE IELTS?

This is a four-week course that enables candidates to become perfectly familiar with the format of the examination, prepares them to work within the deadlines for the different sections and gives them practice in all the areas examined. The course is given throughout the year in our Teaching Centre.

Dates of the next courses

		IS IT POSSIBLE TO PREPARE FOR THE EXAMINATION INDEPENDENTLY?

The IELTS Specimen Materials Pack contains an examination for each module, a guide to answers and a CD with a listening test and sample interviews.

Sets of material are on sale in our offices.

We also recommend you to attend the IELTS information meeting that is given periodically. This lasts two hours and is free of charge; all you have to do is reserve a place for the date you wish to attend.

The IELTS website (www.ielts.org) includes examples of the questions in the examination.

For more information, please contact marilu.groenewold@britishcouncil.org.mx

		WHEN CAN THE IELTS EXAMINATION BE TAKEN?

	The IELTS examination is given in the British Council offices in Mexico City, in Monterrey and in Guadalajara. Steps for registration must be begun at least two weeks before the date chosen for the examination. For more information call 01 55 5263 1900.

		HOW LONG IS IT BEFORE RESULTS COME THROUGH?

	Two weeks after taking the examination. Results CANNOT be given by telephone, fax or e-mail.

		HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO TAKE THE IELTS EXAMINATION?

	For information about prices please consult our price list.

		WHAT FORMS OF PAYMENT ARE THERE?

Our examination services can be paid for with a direct deposit into our bank account
(HSBC, The British Council A.C. account # 4028291789) by cheque* or credit card (except AmEx and Diners).

* Personal cheques: Please present a photocopy of an official identification of the owner of the cheque.

* Company cheques: Please present a photocopy of proof of address of the business (telephone or electricity bill or a fiscal receipt)

		CANCELLATIONS

	Any change will have solely to be transacted at least FOUR weeks before the date of the examination and via email with cristina.llamas@britishcouncil.org.mx. The quota by the same one, in case of being approved will be of $700.00 pesos.

		HOW LONG IS THE IELTS QUALIFICATION VALID FOR?

	The recommended validity is 2 years.