Which test do I take?

Test Content (Writing, Reading, Listening and Speaking)

The IELTS test assesses your abilities in listening, reading, writing and speaking – in less than three hours.

There are two types of IELTS:  Academic and General Training. Listening and Speaking are the same for both tests, but the subject matter of the Reading and Writing sections differs depending on which test you take.

The Writing, Reading and Listening sections of all IELTS tests are completed on the same day, with no breaks in between them.

The duration of the Speaking component is between 11-14 minutes comprising of 3 parts. This is the only test which is conducted a face to face with a highly qualified examiner.

The Speaking section can be completed on the same day in test centres in Japan. Your test centre will advise.

The total test time is 2 hours and 45 minutes.

Choose the type that works for you

If you plan to study in higher education or seek professional registration, you can take an IELTS Academic. Or if you want to study in secondary education, work or migrate to an English-speaking country, IELTS General Training might be right for you. Where you want to study, work or migrate to will affect which test you need to take. Make sure you visit the relevant government or institutional websites to confirm which test you need to take, as government agencies, institutions and other recognising organisations set their own IELTS entry requirements.