IELTS for UKVI

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a test meant for anyone who wants to pursue an academic or professional career internationally. It includes IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training.

However, if you are planning to study, work or move to the UK, you need to give an IELTS test approved for UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI) purposes known as IELTS for UKVI. This applies to everyone coming from a non-English speaking country. Remember, universities, colleges and professional bodies will only accept IELTS for UKVI score. Regular IELTS will not be considered.

While there is no change in the content, format or level of difficulty and scoring, IELTS for UKVI simply follows certain extra security protocols to ensure the authenticity of the test taker. Also, your Test Report Form (TRF) may look slightly different from the regular IELTS one.

IELTS for UKVI  test can now be taken on a computer and as well as on a paper. Test takers opting for IELTS on paper will take the Writing, Listening, and Reading sections on a paper with either pen or HB-pencils. The Speaking test is carried out face-to-face or via a video call with a trained IELTS examiner. The results of the paper-based IELTS test are announced after 13 calendar days. 

Test takers opting for IELTS on computer take the Listening, Reading, and Writing sections on a computer. The Speaking test remains face-to-face or via a video call with a trained IELTS examiner. Computer-based IELTS gives you the convenience to choose from multiple test dates and slots, you can expect your results within 3-5 days. 

IELTS for UKVI on Computer.                                 IELTS for UKVI on Paper . 

IELTS assesses your ability to understand English; the IELTS test comprises of four components Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The total duration of the test is 2 hours and 45 minutes and your Listening, Reading, and Writing tests will be conducted on the same day, without any breaks. The sequence of the four sections for paper-based IELTS will be Listening, Reading ,and Writing as well as the computer-based IELTS will be Listening, Reading, Writing. However, the speaking test section can be scheduled up to a week before or after other tests. Your IELTS test centre will inform you of the date and time of your Speaking test.

Computer-delivered IELTS sequence

*Please Note: The speaking test can be scheduled within a window of 5 days prior to your LRW test date.

• Listening
• Reading
• Writing
• Speaking

Paper-based IELTS sequence
*Please Note: The speaking test can be scheduled within a window of 7 days pre or post to your WRL test date.

• Listening
• Reading
• Writing
• Speaking

IELTS has two test types - IELTS General Training and IELTS Academic. IELTS Academic is suitable for candidates who require IELTS for academic purposes, mostly to study in the UK at undergraduate or postgraduate levels or for professional registration in an English-speaking environment. 

IELTS General Training is suited for those who need English language proficiency to show qualifications to study below a degree level, employment, and migration to the UK.

• IELTS General Training  
• IELTS Academic  

Each section is out of 9 and the overall score is mapped to its corresponding CEFR level. 

• IELTS on Computer results available within 3 to 5 days. 
• IELTS on Paper results available after 13 days (about 2 weeks).