What is IELTS?
IELTS is an acronym for International English Language Testing System. Many professional registration bodies, including the Australian Medical Council, rely on IELTS as evidence of English language proficiency. Each country has different IELTS requirements but if you are a nurse or doctor planning to live and work and Australia, Canada, New Zealand or the UK, it is likely you will be required to present evidence of English language proficiency as part of your application. Even those from English speaking countries are required to undertake IELTS when applying to many overseas professional boards and institutions.
IELTS is jointly managed by the University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations, British Council and IDP Education Australia.
What is IELTS exam?
The IELTS exam is a test that measures the language proficiency of those who wish to study or work where English is commonly used for communication.
There are two modules available, Academic or General Training. For those seeking professional registration in one of the above countries, the Academic Module is usually necessary but specific requirements should be confirmed with the institution or board you are applying to.
The IELTS exam covers the four language skills of listening, reading, writing and speaking in all major varieties of English language including American, Australian and British. Participants receive an individual score for each of the four components. The test takes three hours but the speaking component may be taken after a break of up to a week depending on the individual test centre.
There are over 1,100 test centres and locations worldwide. Most test centres are run by the British Council, or IELTS Australia as well as some universities and language schools. You will be required to submit valid and current identification documents when applying and such ID will need to be presented on the day of the test.
Do I need to take the IELTS exam?
The Medical Board of Australia requires international medical graduates to provide proof of English language proficiency for all registration categories unless it has granted an exemption. You can sit all AMC exams without first undertaking IELTS but if you are an overseas trained doctor or international medical graduate, you have to pass the IELTS exam in order to register with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (APHRA).
For more information on what is IELTS and what is IELTS exam contact your nearest IELTS test centre.