IELTS format & timing

What the test involves

Academic assesses listening, reading, writing and speaking.

Provider overall guidance is 2 hours 45 minutes. Speaking appointment arrangements vary.

Scores and what happens next

• Bands run from 0 to 9. An overall band does not replace a programme’s individual skill requirements.
• IELTS recommends a two-year result validity period; the receiving organisation decides its acceptance policy.