IELTS, the International English Language Testing System, is designed to access the language ability of candidates who need to study or work where English is the language of communication.
It covers the four language skills - listening, reading, writing and speaking.
- Listening - Time: approximately 30 minutes - Candidates listen to a number of recorded texts, which increase in difficulty as the test progresses. These include a mixture of monologues and conversations and feature a variety of English accents and dialects. The recording is heard only once, but candidates are given time to read the questions and write down their answers.
- Reading - Time: 60 minutes - There are three reading passages with tasks. Texts are taken from books, magazines, journal and newspapers, all written for a non-specialist audience. At least one of the texts contains a detailed argument.
- Writing - Time: 60 minutes - Candidates are asked to write a description of at least 150 words. This is based on material found in a chart, table, graph or diagram and should demonstrate their ability to present information and to summarize the main features of the input. For the second task, candidates write a short essay of at least 250 words in response to a statement or question. They are expected to demonstrate an ability to present a position, construct an argument and discuss abstract issues.
The first three modules - Listening, Reading and Writing - must be completed in one day. No break is given between the three modules. The first three sub-tests (Listening/Reading/Writing) takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes. During test application, the Testing Officer would have arranged a time for my individual Speaking sub-test on the same day or on a different day. This may take place after the Writing sub-test, and takes about 11-14 minutes.
- Speaking - Time: 11 - 14 minutes - The test takes the form of a face to face interview. Candidates are assessed on their use of spoken English to answer short questions, to speak at length on a familiar topic, and also to interact with the examiner.
Test centres in JB Branches are conducting a testing session twice a month.
IELTS Testing Fee: RM 510.00 to IDP Education.
A Complete Test Application requires the following:
- 2 recent passport-sized photos
- a photocopy of the IC
- the test fee
After submit my completed application form and test fees. The staff pass me a receipt & "IELTS TESTING SERVICES CONFIRMATION LETTER (JOHOR BAHRU)" Stated that a place has been reserved for me in the test to be held on 12 May 2007, 8:30am at IDP Testing Center in Johor Bahru.
It is not necessary to attend a preparation course but it is, of course, a good idea to prepare thoroughly for the test. Official preparation materials called Specimen Materials are available from test centres. This includes a full practice test with an answer key, a CD of the listening test and three sample speaking tests so that candidates can get some idea of their level and familiarise themselves with the format of the test. IELTS Specimen Kit only cost me RM 100.00 and believed me, it is very useful before enter into the exam.
During Listening/Reading/Writing exams, I need to bring
- Original Identity card
- Pencils, ruler, eraser and a sharpener (Pencil cases and mechanical pencils are not allowed)
- Receipt for the test fee and Confirmation Letter.
Remark: The testing room is air-conditioned, don't forget to bring a jacket or a sweater.
Results will be produced 13 days after the test, which is on 25 May 2007.
