IELTS Academic Exam Pattern
Understand the exact structure of the IELTS test, including task types and time limits for each section.
Exam Pattern for IELTS Academic
An overview of the tasks and typical number of questions you can expect in each section of the IELTS test.
| Question Type & Tasks | Questions / Tasks | |
|---|---|---|
Listening | Multiple Choice, Matching, Plan/Map/Diagram Labeling, Form/Note/Table/Flow-chart/Summary Completion, Sentence Completion | 40 |
Reading | Multiple Choice, Identifying Information (True/False/Not Given), Identifying Writer's Views/Claims (Yes/No/Not Given), Matching Information/Headings/Features/Sentence Endings, Sentence Completion | 40 |
Writing | Task 1 (Describe visual information: graph, table, chart, or diagram) | 1 |
| Task 2 (Write an essay in response to a point of view, argument, or problem) | 1 | |
Speaking | Part 1 (Introduction and Interview) | 1 |
| Part 2 (Long Turn - speak for up to 2 minutes on a topic) | 1 | |
| Part 3 (Discussion - answer abstract questions related to Part 2) | 1 |
About the IELTS Academic test
IELTS Academic measures whether your level of English language proficiency is suitable for an academic environment. It reflects aspects of academic language and evaluates whether you're ready to begin studying or training.
Sections and question types
The test is divided into four sections: Listening (30 minutes), Reading (60 minutes), Writing (60 minutes), and Speaking (11-14 minutes). The total test time is 2 hours and 45 minutes.
Unlike some other tests, IELTS sections are clearly separated. You will complete Listening, Reading, and Writing on the same day with no breaks in between. The Speaking test can be completed up to a week before or after the other tests.
How to prepare for IELTS
Familiarize yourself with the various question types, particularly for the Reading and Listening sections, such as True/False/Not Given or Matching Headings. Time management is crucial, especially in the Reading and Writing sections.
Practet offers comprehensive IELTS practice materials to help you master every task type, improve your timing, and achieve your target band score.