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Who accepts IELTS and why you should get it

Find out which organisations around the globe accept your IELTS Academic, General Training and IELTS for UKVI test scores.

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Published: 8 May 2024

English is widely used as the language of communication around the world. Hence, it is beneficial to be fluent in it – especially if you have dreams of studying or working in a country where English is the primary language.

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a way of measuring one’s proficiency in English, using a nine-band scale.

It identifies proficiency levels from non-user (band score 1) all the way through to expert (band score 9), assessing various aspects such as Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening.

You might be wondering which are the organisations that accept IELTS, after all, it seems like just another English language test. However, IELTS is indeed accepted around the world by a large number of countries and organisations.

Apart from that, it can take you closer to your educational aspirations (internal link to article: IELTS 101: The Different Types of IELTS and How You Can Benefit-may’19) and career dreams.

The two types of IELTS tests

The IELTS is available in both Academic and General Training, depending on what you intend to do. If you have plans to pursue higher education (such as an undergraduate & postgraduate degree) or do a professional registration, the Academic test is more suitable for you.

For those who intend to migrate to the UK, Australia or Canada, apply for secondary education, training programs or gain work experience in an English-speaking area – the General Training test would suffice.

Who accepts IELTS

IELTS is accepted in over 10,000 organizations and more than 145 countries. In countries like the UK and Canada, IELTS is widely accepted as requirements for undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.

There are also various prestigious and credible universities, schools, training colleges and tertiary institutes that accept IELTS.

If you have plans to move to the UK, taking the right IELTS test is a requirement by the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). Such government organisations are responsible for determining whether a person has the right to live in the UK every year.

As part of your application for a UK visa, you’ll be required to take an English proficiency test – especially if you intend to work or study there.

Additionally, professional bodies in several countries that require IELTS consist of engineering, law, accounting and veterinary practices. Other employers from fields such as construction, government, finance, energy, tourism and aviation also see IELTS as a requirement.

If you intend to pursue a career in the healthcare industry, you might want to know that competency in the English language is of utmost importance and is largely accepted by many of the registration bodies that represent professions such as medicine, nursing and pharmacy.

Curious if a particular company accepts or requires IELTS?

Looking to take the IELTS test?

At IDP, we can help you when it comes to preparing for the IELTS test, to help you boost your score and fulfil your study or migration dreams.

From various resources to masterclasses, we have the tools you need.

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