The International English Language Testing system (IELTS) is a high quality English language test required for admission to educational institutions worldwide and is also an essential part of the immigration process in a number of countries.

			IELTS has wide global recognition: UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and many other non English speaking countries.
			IELTS tests international English (no UK or US bias).
			IELTS is available every month and delivers results in only 13 days.
			The speaking section is a face-to-face interview with a trained examiner.
			British Council offers candidates various options for test preparation.

Where is IELTS recognised?
IELTS is widely accepted requested by over 6,000 educational institutions, immigration authorities and professional bodies all over the world including the UK, USA, Australia, Canada, New Zealand as well as non English speaking countries. For details see the IELTS Global Recognition System. If the university you are applying to is not on this link please get in contact with us at exams@britishcouncil.nl.

How does it work?
All candidates are tested in four areas: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. The Listening and Speaking modules are the same for everyone, but the choice of Reading and Writing modules is determined by the purpose for taking IELTS:

			Academic Reading and Writing modules are suitable for those seeking admission to undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
			General Training Reading and Writing modules are suitable for candidates who are going to English-speaking countries to complete their secondary education or to undertake work experience or training programmes not at degree level. The General Training modules are also used for immigration purposes.

What is the format of the test?
IELTS tests all 4 areas using a pen and paper test format. The speaking section is a face-to-face interview. For more information you can download the IELTS handbook that gives an overview of IELTS for teachers, administrators and other users, including staff in receiving organisations such as universities, professional registration boards and employers. It outlines the key features and administrative procedures for IELTS.

More information and registration
In the Netherlands IELTS is administered by the British Language Training Centre in Amsterdam.
On the web there is more information for institutions and more information for teachers available.

How can I prepare for the test?
There are a number of online resources available to help you prepare for your IELTS exam:

			Road to IELTS: free online preparation available for all registered candidates.
			IELTS test preparation materials on the British Council LearnEnglish Professionals web pages.
			Useful IELTS resources on the central IELTS website for both students and teachers.
			If you would like to work on your general level of English we would advise that you try the British Council Learn English website.

View your results online
It is possible for IELTS candidates to view their results online from 6pm on the 13th day after their exam date. To access your results please go to the IELTS Online Results webpage and follow the instructions: http://ielts-results.britishcouncil.org/ Results older than 28 days will not be displayed.

IELTS is jointly managed by University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations, British Council and IDP Education Australia: IELTS Australia.