What is an IELTS® Course?

An IELTS® course is a course of study that prepares a student to take the International English Language Testing System exam. This test is administrated by a variety of institutions, and is often a prerequisite for non-Native English speakers who want to study at British or other English language universities, or those who want to emigrate to an English speaking country. An IELTS® course plays a particular role in helping a student to do better on the test and to anticipate its challenges.

Although many IELTS® courses consist of classroom training, some others can simply be completed through self study using books, software, and other materials. Many other formal IELTS® preparation courses include live training or coaching where paid professionals help students build IELTS® test taking skills.

An IELTS® course needs to be targeted toward the general content of the test. This includes four categories or modules in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Some IELTS® courses offer specific instruction around relevant content like newspaper articles or topics based on what is often included in the IELTS®.

It’s also important to note that the IELTS® course should be focused on one of two levels. The academic IELTS® is for students who want to study at an English language university or school. The general IELTS® is for others. These two tests are different, and thus an IELTS® course of study should be chosen that is relevant to the particular test that will be taken.

A major part of many IELTS® course offerings are related to the experience and skills of the trainer. The best instructors can bring a detailed knowledge of the test to the table. The best exam trainers also prepare students for specific cultural aspects of IELTS®, such as the speaking portion of the test, where the challenges of conducting a detailed conversation with the test giver can be intimidating or daunting for a student.

Along with live training courses, a wide spectrum of books, software and other resources help students guide themselves through an IELTS® course curriculum. With so many choices available, students should weigh the features of each product, and be sure that the source is credible, and that the material addresses all of the test elements. Attention to detail can help students select an IELTS® course that truly fits their needs and present skill level.