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IELTS Academic Test

If you want to study at university level in Canada, wish to work in an academic environment, or you are a medical professional, then the IELTS Academic test may be the option for you.

The test examines academic language and aims to assess if you are able to train, work, or study in an English-speaking environment. You should take this test if:

  • you would like to study in university in Canada, at an undergraduate level or higher.
  • you plan to work in an English-speaking workplace that uses academic language.

IELTS Academic Exam Format

The Speaking and Listening sections are exactly the same for both the Academic IELTS test and General Training IELTS test. Find out more about these here.

IELTS Academic Reading format

The IELTS Academic Reading test includes three long texts which are taken from books, journals, magazines and newspapers. You will then be asked around 40 questions on these texts. You do not need any specialised knowledge on the subjects, but the content will be tailored more towards people entering a university course.

IELTS Academic Writing format

For the Writing section of the Academic test, you will be given two tasks:

Task 1: You will be given a graph, table, chart, diagram or map and asked to describe or summarise the information in your own words.

Task 2: You are asked to write an essay in response to a point of view, argument or problem.

Achieve your best IELTS score with help from British Council

We’ll also help you prepare for your test with our free learning materials. Get top marks with free access to:

  • A last-minute preparation course ‘Road to IELTS’: You will receive free pre-test support, including over 100 interactive activities, 9 online video tutorials, and the incredible IELTS app.
  • Webinars from language experts: Hosted weekly, our webinars discuss a wide range of topics aimed to help and support test takers.
  • Online practice tests: Take mock tests online to see which areas of the IELTS Academic test require more learning.

Frequently Asked Questions


What is IELTS Academic?

How is IELTS Academic different from General Training?

Book your IELTS Academic Test

British Council is here to help you through every step of your IELTS journey. Find your nearest test centre and book your test online today.