If you want to study at university level in Canada, wish to work in an academic environment, or you are a medical professional, then the IELTS Academic test may be the option for you.
The test examines academic language and aims to assess if you are able to train, work, or study in an English-speaking environment. You should take this test if:
The Speaking and Listening sections are exactly the same for both the Academic IELTS test and General Training IELTS test. Find out more about these here.
The IELTS Academic Reading test includes three long texts which are taken from books, journals, magazines and newspapers. You will then be asked around 40 questions on these texts. You do not need any specialised knowledge on the subjects, but the content will be tailored more towards people entering a university course.
For the Writing section of the Academic test, you will be given two tasks:
Task 1: You will be given a graph, table, chart, diagram or map and asked to describe or summarise the information in your own words.
Task 2: You are asked to write an essay in response to a point of view, argument or problem.
We’ll also help you prepare for your test with our free learning materials. Get top marks with free access to:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is IELTS Academic?
How is IELTS Academic different from General Training?
British Council is here to help you through every step of your IELTS journey. Find your nearest test centre and book your test online today.