If you are looking to put in an application for tertiary study in a country where English is the first language, you will need to provide proof of your proficiency in English at a tertiary level if you're not a native speaker of English.
English is the third most commonly spoken language in the world, so if you are wanting to work or study in a country where English is spoken as the primary language, you will increase your chances and ability to choose the work or course you really want to do if you have proficiency in the English language.
How do I prove that I possess the necessary language ability?
In some cases, the main, and only way to prove your ability is through taking a recognised exam. As each tertiary institution in Australia has different requirements, international students should check the information at their preferred place of study. However, in general, the tests that tend to be accepted include:
- Test of English as a Foreign Language: internet-based (TOEFL iBT)
- Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic
- Cambridge English C1 Advanced and C2 Proficiency (formerly CPE)
- International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic.
The latter test is the most popular and it is this one we will focus on during this article.
What is the International English Language Testing System?
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) was developed in 1989 and is managed and administered jointly by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia and Cambridge Assessment English. It is a rigorous exam that is designed to assess the English language level of candidates and their ability to speak, listen, read and write effectively in English
Depending on their reason for coming to Australia, international candidates may sit one of two tests:
- IELTS Academic for students wishing to put in an application for a university course or work in a professional setting
- IELTS General Training for students wanting to study at a non-tertiary level or gain general employment.
If candidates wish to migrate, whatever their reason, Australian Immigration requires the completion of the latter IELTS exam.
The exam is marked on a score scale of 9 down to zero. A 'Band 9' score indicates 'expert user', meaning the student demonstrated a fully operational command of all four skills. A 'Band 6' score indicates a 'competent user' who shows some inaccuracies and inappropriate usage, 'Band 4' is a 'limited user' who is only competent in very familiar situations and 'Band 1' is an 'intermittent user' whose proficiency levels in some or all of the skill areas is very limited.
What IELTS score do I need?
The required IELTS score varies according to different organisations and purposes. As a general guide for candidates who want to migrate, the minimum score is Band 6. If they then want to work or study, they will need to check the minimum score or band with the relevant organisation or institution.
What preparation do I need to do?
The IELTS exam was designed to reflect general, everyday situations. In addition, the academic exam assesses students to see if they have the ability to cope with an undergraduate or postgraduate degree or to work in a professional setting such as medicine or law.
With this in mind, preparation is highly recommended as candidates need to demonstrate competency in speaking, listening, reading and writing. Two or three out of the four is not sufficient.
Luckily, preparation for your exam is not hard to achieve with a range of resources, including an IELTS practice test, as well as classes run by an experienced tutor.
Find an IELTS course Perth on Superprof.
Can I Do an IELTS Practice Test?
Completing an IELTS Mock Test as part of your preparation is highly recommended. Not only will you become familiar with the types of questions asked but you can also learn how to manage your time more efficiently to ensure you complete all sections of each of the tests.
The IELTS exam consists of four separate tests. The listening and speaking tests are the same for Academic candidates and General Training candidates. Writing and reading tests are different for the two groups. The listening, reading and writing tests are each conducted on the same day, with no break between them. The speaking section, however, can be taken up to a week before or after the other sections.
The IELTS website contains a number of sample questions that can be accessed for free, along with a free information booklet. Individuals can also order the official IELTS practice materials online. These materials include sets of past speaking, listening, reading and writing exam questions, along with answers and explanations.
Individuals can purchase these resources themselves to practise independently, however, if students enrol in IELTS preparation classes, or engage an IELTS tutor for remote or in-person coaching, the mock exams will be part of the coaching or lessons.
Is it Possible to Find IELTS Coaching Near Me?
Coaching, tutoring or classes to help with your exam preparation are easy to come by. Your best bet is to search on Google (or similar) for 'IELTS coaching near me'. This search will bring up all the coaching, training and tutor services available in your immediate area.
In the meantime, here are a few providers from the major capital cities in Australia to get you started.
- Canberra — check out the University of Canberra English Language Institute first as it offers evening courses specifically targeted at IELTS test preparation.
- Sydney — IPC Sydney offers a range of intensive classes for both the academic and general training options.
- Melbourne — AMES Australia provides an intensive, 20-week IELTS preparation program of study for students wanting to sit the academic test.
- Brisbane — TAFE Queensland offers a range of courses for students to improve their skills and prepare for the IELTS exam.
- Adelaide — SACE runs an evening course for students to help them prepare for each section of the test.
- Perth — the University of Western Australia runs a short, 2-week or 5-week intensive course for students who want to sit either of the exams.
If you are still living overseas when you're preparing, most of the programs available through Australian providers, including university and TAFE courses, can be taken online. The best thing about using Australian providers is that, given you're looking to work or study in this country, your lessons will be more relevant and will get you accustomed to the Australian accent.
Find the perfect IELTS course Sydney on Superprof.
Can I Study with an IELTS Tutor Online?
It may be that the courses available do not suit your schedule or are outside of your financial means. Some students, particularly beginners, also feel self-conscious in a classroom environment with other participants and may prefer to work one-on-one with a teacher.
If this is you, a private tutor may be a good option.
Again, you can conduct an online search to find a tutor. It's a good idea to ask for references or testimonials first to make sure the tutor is capable of providing you with the support and help you need.
Another option is to check with the different tutoring agencies to see if they offer private online or in-person lessons as well as group ones. You will find that most of them do.
Alternatively, check out the Superprof platform. There are nearly 10,000 tutors throughout Australia whose Superprof profiles indicate that they offer tutoring in IELTS preparation. You can narrow your search on the platform to find a tutor who meets your needs — whether that be virtual lessons, group classes or in-person coaching, as well as specific focus on certain skills. Each tutor's profile should also list:
- hourly rate
- type of lessons available
- qualifications
- experience
- student testimonials.
The average price for an hour-long lesson with a Superprof tutor is $25 and most tutors on the platform offer their first session for free, which is the best way for the student and the tutor to get to know if they will be a good fit (without any prior commitment).
What should I expect from my tutor?
A private tutor, unlike structured group classes, is there to work for you and help you with your specific needs. So, if you are fine with writing and reading but know your listening and speaking ability is not where it needs to be, your tutor will focus their lessons on these areas.
An experienced tutor will also be able to help you with exam techniques and tips for comprehending specific questions, particularly when it comes time to do the practice tests.
Whichever path you choose, keep your eye on the ultimate goal — an IELTS score that is high enough to help you achieve your dreams.
Prepare for your exam with an IELTS course Melbourne on Superprof!
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