Are you planning to study abroad? Then you might have heard about IELTS.

IELTS or the International English Language Testing System is a recognized proficiency test for non-native English speakers. Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom are some of the countries that require this test.

One of the things you need to know about IELTS is that it has two types: IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training. IELTS Academic is intended for those who plan to study an undergraduate or postgraduate degree in an English-speaking country.

Meanwhile, you’ll need IELTS General Training if you are planning to emigrate or work in a country abroad. The IELTS test is composed of four parts: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The test uses the “band” system for score reporting. Band scores range from 0 to 9, with 9 being the highest (expert users of the English language).

IELTS test preparation step-by-step guide for Filipinos

Here are five steps to prepare you for the IELTS test:

Step 1: Improve your English.

Since you are going to an English-speaking country, you obviously need to practice your English language skills. Try using English every day. When you speak, read, and write in English as often as you can, you’ll become more used to it. Listen to a variety of English accents like American, British, Canadian, and Australian accents. Moreover, watching English films and shows will help you get used to the sounds of the language. You can also take online classes for more in-depth training on your English grammar.

Step 2: Understand the IELTS test format.

The listening and speaking sections of the IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training exams are the same, but their reading and writing sections are different.

The IELTS General Training reading and writing exams are composed of content that is more appropriate for the workplace. Meanwhile, be prepared to answer scholarly contents in the IELTS Academic reading and writing section.

The timing and structure for IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training exams are the same. These tests are composed of four sections that assess speaking, reading, writing, and listening, and have a total duration of 2 hours and 45 minutes.

Step 3: Practice sample questions.

Search for free IELTS practice tests online to familiarize yourself with the test format, especially with the type of activities you will be required to do. Remember that the IELTS question types range from identification, multiple choice, essay, matching type, sentence completion, to labeling diagrams.

These IELTS practice tests also have time limits so you should prepare your test-taking strategies.

After answering the sample questions, you can review your answers and compare them with the correct answers provided. See which areas in the IELTS exam you need to improve more.

Step 4: Prepare all your documents in advance.

It is important to plan your calendar carefully. Doing this will give you enough time to prepare for the exam and pass the IELTS before you start studying or working abroad. The IELTS exam is usually held thrice a month, but some test dates only offer the Academic exam.

Also, processing certain documents such as government IDs may take time. Here are the documents you need to prepare when registering for IELTS:

  • Photocopy of your ID (Unified Multi-Purpose ID, PRC license, or passport)
  • Two (2) colored passport-sized photos
  • IELTS registration fee (the IELTS Academic or General training test usually costs around Php 10,270).

Step 5: Don’t cram on the day of the exam.

Try some relaxing techniques on exam day. Though it is a big day, too much pressure can get in the way and affect your test performance. Prepare your stuff the night before. Put all your documents in one place so you don’t have to cram on the day of your exam.

IELTS provides a booklet containing all the information and rules about the exam. So you better make sure to read them. Another great tip is to familiarize yourself with your assigned test location. See how much time it will take you to arrive on time at the testing venue. Plan your journey to avoid being late in case there is heavy traffic in your area.

Whether you’re studying for IELTS, TOEFL, or TOEIC, review for all the essential English Proficiency Exams here. Want to review anytime, anywhere? You definitely can! Just bring out your mobile phone and start reviewing here!

SOURCES: https://www.edukasyon.ph/blog/how-to-prepare-for-the-ielts-test-for-filipinos, https://www.britishcouncil.ph/exam/ielts/dates-fees-locations