• IELTS is used around the world for a variety of purposes, including for work, study, and migration. 
• Over 11,500 organizations in 140 countries recognize the IELTS test. 
• Experts from around the world have developed the IELTS test. 
• The test is researched and monitored to ensure fairness for test takers, regardless of their background, gender, education, etc.

Widely accepted

One of the reasons why IELTS is so popular is that it is widely accepted – by more than 11,500 organisations in over 140 countries. IELTS test results are accepted by a variety of organisations, including universities, colleges, schools and governments, as well as professional and industry bodies. 

 Here is a list of organisations that accept IELTS, as well as the required test scores for each one.

Availability and frequency

One of the advantages of IELTS and why it is so popular is that it is available in a large number of places around the world. For example, IDP has 450 test centres which offer the test in more than 145 countries. There is the option of IELTS on computer test which is available most days of the year. There is the IELTS on paper test, which can be taken several times a month on 48 different dates during the year, depending on the test centre demand.

Non-native speakers only?

Some people are surprised to learn that native English speakers may also be required to take the IELTS test. They may need it to attend university in another country, or to migrate to an English-speaking country, or to seek better career opportunities. Just like non-native English speakers, they also have to prove their language ability, and many do so by taking an IELTS test.

 Academic or General Training

There are two kinds of IELTS tests: IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training. Test takers must decide which test to take before registering for their test.

 There are a number of things to consider when deciding which IELTS test to take, including your goals and needs. If you need some help determining which test to take, seek advice from the organisation, school, or government body you are applying to.

One reason people choose to take the IELTS Academic test is because they are planning to study for higher education, such as at a university or college. In this case, admission to a program or courses may be based on the results of the IELTS Academic test. Those planning to work in a professional field, such as nursing or accounting, may also choose to take the IELTS Academic test.

For those who wish to study, work, or get trained for their jobs in an English-speaking country, they may choose to take the IELTS General Training test. Those planning to migrate to an English-speaking country such as Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the United States, or the UK may also choose to take the General Training test.

So, as you can see, there is a wide variety of reasons why people choose to take IELTS, and there are many opportunities to take the test in locations around the world. Before making any decisions about what test to take or what route to take to meet your goals, take some time to do your research and carefully consider your options.