Are you planning to take the IELTS exam but unsure which version to take? Taking the right version of the IELTS test is essential if you want to achieve your goals, by understanding the difference between the General and Academic versions, you can make the right decision and prepare accordingly to achieve your desired scores, as they serve different purposes. Whether you want to study abroad or migrate to an English-speaking country, choosing the right IELTS test will help you achieve your goals. Here’s a guide to help you understand the difference between the IELTS General and Academic IELTS in this article.
What Are IELTS Test Types and the Differences Between Them?
IELTS is an acronym for International English Language Testing System.
IELTS has two types:
The two versions are tests that measure one’s ability to use and understand the English language, but there are some differences between IELTS general and academic such as the format of the academic IELTS is different from the format of the general IELTS and the purpose of learning them, we will get to know them together.
IELTS General and Academic
The academic IELTS test is one of two versions of the IELTS test, which is the spoken portion of both tests alongside the specialist company. The test assigns a certain amount of time to each piece. It consists of 4 parts, and 40 questions, this type of IELTS test is preferable for:
- People who are applying to higher education or professional programs in an English-speaking setting should use the academic version.
- Students who are applying for postsecondary education or professional registration in an English-speaking setting typically take the IELTS Academic exam.
It includes standard university-style questions and evaluates your ability to speak effectively in English across a variety of academic areas. The IELTS Academic test is a test that measures your level of proficiency in English, which is essential for entering an academic environment in higher education. The test reveals characteristics such as your ability to understand and use academic language, develop and support an argument, and compare and contrast information.
General IELTS
This test is for those who travel to English-speaking nations for secondary school, job opportunities, or training programs, IELTS General Training is available. It evaluates your English language proficiency in a real-world situation. Professional organizations, immigration authorities, and other governmental organizations all accept it.
The focus of the test is on fundamental survival skills in large-scale social and professional contexts, and test takers will be evaluated based on their ability to communicate in English both orally and in writing. The four areas of the IELTS syllabus are listening, reading, writing, and speaking. IELTS general and academic exam lasts for a total of two hours and forty-five minutes.
There are four sections to the test:
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IELTS listening test
Continued for 30 minutes, candidates must listen to four recordings of native English speakers and respond to questions in each of the four sections of the hearing test.
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IELTS speaking test
Which is lasted for 11 to 14 minutes each follow and is divided into three sections:In the first section, candidates introduce themselves and respond to general questions about themselves and other topics.
In the second and third sections, however, candidates speak for a total of 4-5 minutes with the examinee on a particular topic. The listening and speaking sections are the same for both versions, but the reading and writing sections differ.
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IELTS Writing test
In the IELTS Writing test, you have 60 minutes to write two tasks of writing, Task 1 differs between IELTS general and academic.
In the first problem of the academic IELTS Writing section, you will be given a graph, table, chart, or diagram and asked to describe, summarise, or otherwise explain the data in your own words.
But the first activity in the general IELTS Writing section involves writing a general message to a person and establishing the kind of topic and message to be used.
Task 2 is the same in the two types by giving an essay that responds to a viewpoint, issue, or argument.
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IELTS reading test
Candidates must read three paragraphs and respond to 40 questions spread across three sections of the reading sheet for 60 minutes. The Academic reading and writing sections are more difficult, with longer passages and more challenging questions. The General reading and writing sections are shorter and easier.
What do you know about IELTS test practice online?
Elmadrasah offers online courses for learning more about the strategies and skills needed for IELTS test preparation as well as how to understand the IELTS general and academic.
There are 5 Reasons to choose elmadrasah.com for Your IELTS Online Course:
- Accreditation: Elmadrasah.com is the first educational platform in the Arab world to offer online courses in IELTS. The courses are affiliated with the British Council, ensuring top-quality preparation for the exam.
- Flexibility: Whether you prefer to take the IELTS exam on paper or via computer, Elmadrasah.com has got you covered with online courses and the option to schedule an in-person speaking test.
- Expertise: With IELTS experts reviewing course materials, students can trust that the curriculum is tailored to meet the exam’s requirements and will help them achieve their desired score.
- Availability: Elmadrasah.com offers courses with both Arab and foreign tutors, accessible around the clock. Book your course now and get started on your IELTS preparation journey.
- Following and communication: Elmadrasah.com permits all types of sharing between students and their tutors, between students with each other, and continuously follows up the developments at all stages of the course.
Students can access all of these courses easily on the platform and enjoy a seamless learning experience, by the end of the course, you will be familiar with every IELTS test component, have some useful tips to assist you to reach your IELTS results, and understand the IELTS testing process.
- Our video tutor and a group of experienced IELTS educators will provide direction at each stage.
- You’ll also be asked to share your knowledge, suggestions, and opinions with other students.
