The article is copied from britishcouncil website kindly read it carfully to understand the structure of IELTS exam and time consumed and types of the exam.
What are the two types of IELTS test?
There are two types of the IELTS test:
IELTS Academic
The IELTS Academic test is for people applying for higher education or professional registration in an English-speaking environment. It reflects some of the features of academic language and assesses whether you are ready to begin studying or training
IELTS General Training.
The IELTS General Training test is for those who are going to English speaking countries for secondary education, work experience or training programs. It is also a requirement for migration to Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the UK. The test focuses on basic survival skills in broad social and workplace contexts. Listening and Speaking are the same for both tests, but the subject matter of the Reading and Writing sections differs depending on which test you take.
What is the IELTS test format and how long will it take?
The IELTS test has four sections Listening (30 minutes), Reading (60 minutes), Writing (60 minutes) and Speaking (11-14 minutes). The total test time is 2 hours and 45 minutes.
You'll take the first three sections of the test on the same day, in the following order: Listening, Reading and Writing (there are no breaks between these tests). Your Speaking test will be held either on the same day or seven days before or two days after that, depending on local arrangements.
If you take IELTS Online, the Speaking test will usually be before your Listening, Reading and Writing. It could be on the same or a different day.
What accents can be heard in the Listening and Speaking tests?
As IELTS is an international test, a variety of English accents are used in both tests.
Does the IELTS listening tape provide instructions and pauses?
Yes. At the beginning, you hear instructions. Then you read section 1 questions, listen to section 1 and answer the questions.
Perhaps the most dangerous misconception to debunk, it is important to note that there is no pausing or restarting of the Listening test
Is there a similar period of 10 minutes in the IELTS Reading test to transfer answers?
No. The Reading test is one hour, and you must write all your answers on the answer sheet in this time.
Can I use a pen for the IELTS Listening and Reading tests?
No. You must do it in pencil. The answer sheet is scanned by a computer which cannot read pen.
Can I make notes on the IELTS Listening and Reading question papers?
Yes. The IELTS Examiner will not see your question paper.
What is the IELTS Speaking test?
The Speaking test is a conversation with a certified IELTS Examiner. The Speaking test is made up of three parts. It is recorded on an audio cassette or a digital recorder.
What do I need for the IELTS Speaking test?
You must bring the same identification documents you supplied on your IELTS Application Form and used for the rest of the test. Your ID will be checked before you enter the interview room. Personal items, including electronic devices and watches, are not allowed in the Speaking test room.
When will I receive my IELTS test results?
You will receive your results 13 days after the test date if you have taken IELTS on paper, 1-5 days if you have taken IELTS on computer and 6-8 days if you have taken IELTS Online.
If you have taken IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration (on paper), you can view your results 13 days after your test, and 3-5 days if you have taken IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration (on computer).
Can I check my IELTS test results online?
Yes, you will receive an email notification with a link to view your IELTS scores.
How are IELTS tests marked?
IELTS uses a 9-band scoring system to measure and report test scores in a consistent manner. You receive individual band scores for Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking and an Overall Band Score on a band scale from one to nine.
Who sets the pass mark for the IELTS test?
There is no pass or fail in IELTS. Scores are graded on the 9-band system. Each educational institution or organisation sets its own level of IELTS scores to meet its individual requirements.