The speaking module is a 1 on 1 conversation between the examiner and the candidate in a formal setting. The date for the speaking test differs from the other 3 written modules. Details for the test date and venue are informed prior to the exam, it is usually taken 2-3 days before or after the written exams.
- The duration of the speaking test is 12-15 minutes
- The test has 3 parts
- Each of the parts in the speaking module lasts for 4-5 minutes
- The speaking test is assessed and scored to a maximum band score of 9
The listening module is a written test where the candidate listens to a recording and answers questions pertaining to the recording.
- The test runs for 40-45 minutes
- It contains 4 sections
- Each section contains 10 questions
- Each question carries 1 mark
- An additional 10 minutes is provided after the recording ends for transferring the answers to an answer script
- The total marks (40) is then translated to a band score of 9
The reading module differs for the general training and the academic IELTS. However, both the modules:
- lasts for 60 minutes
- provides no additional time for transferring answers onto an answer script
- contains a total of 40 questions, each carrying 1 mark
- marked out of a band score of 9 after translating the 40 marks
The writing module differs for the two types of IELTS as well. However, for both of the IELTS, the writing module:
- lasts for 60 minutes
- contains 2 tasks
- task 1 has a word limit of 150
- task 2 has a word limit of 250
- task 2 is an essay question
- has the same scoring method
- is scored out of a maximum band score of 9