Are you planning to study or train abroad? Are you applying to an institution and need to prove your level of English? Do you need to raise your standard in English? Then we can help you with an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam.

WHERE IS IELTS RECOGNISED?
IELTS is accepted by most UK, Australian, Canadian and New Zealand academic institutions. In the United States it is increasingly gaining recognition as an alternative to TOEFL (Teaching of English as a Foreign Language).

WHAT TYPE OF IELTS SHOULD YOU TAKE?
You can take either the Academic or General Training Reading and Writing modules. Choose the Academic Reading and Writing module if you are planning to undertake academic study in a higher education institution.

If you are planning to undertake non-academic training or apply for immigration to Australia, Canada or New Zealand, we recommend you take the General Training Reading and Writing modules.

You will be tested in listening, reading, writing and speaking whichever module you decide to take. If you are unsure of which module to take, you can discuss this with our exams officer.

HOW MUCH WILL IELTS COST?
The IELTS exam fee is £100 (paid in local currency at the British Council exchange rate).

Unfortunately, we are unable to offer IELTS preparatory courses. However, you can buy an IELTS sample pack, containing a variety of study materials to help you prepare for the exam. This costs £12.50.

WHEN AND WHERE WILL THE TEST BE?
Although test dates vary, we run a regular service so you can take your test throughout the year. Find out the latest provisional dates and details for 2008.

Usually, tests are taken at our main centre. Sometimes, you may need to take the test elsewhere. We will let you know one week before the test if this happens.

WHEN AND HOW WILL YOU RECEIVE YOUR RESULTS?
The test is marked at our centre to help us make sure you receive your results within fourteen working days.

Results will be returned to you as a Test Report Form. There is no pass or fail mark. Scores are given on a band scale of one to nine (with one being a non-user and nine being an expert user of the English language). Download or read through a copy of the IELTS handbook for more detailed information.

If you are sitting an IELTS English test, you may want to attend an IELTS workshop to help you achieve the best results.

WHEN AND WHERE WILL THE TEST AND WORKSHOPS BE?
Although test dates vary, we run a regular service. Either view the events calendar or select your country or town from the drop down box to find out when you can take your test.