Gourav K. moved to Canada from India with a background in business and education. Back home, he worked as a Business Partner at a firm manufacturing digital speedometers before spending a year as an IELTS trainer. Since moving to Canada, he has been working as a supervisor at a fast-food chain while working towards his career goals. Currently a student in the NPower Junior IT Analyst program, he is trying to bridge his leadership experience with technical skills to grow in the Canadian IT sector.
We asked Gourav about his experience taking the IELTS in Canada — the challenges, how he prepared for the test, and what advice he would give future test-takers. Here are his responses:
Which IELTS test did you take in Canada and why?
I took the IELTS Academic test. I wanted to make sure my results were as versatile as possible for any future professional certifications or academic paths I might choose in Canada.
How did you prepare for the IELTS in Canada and for how long? Did IDP's tools or online resources help?
My prep was focused on the ‘logic’ of the test because of my background as an IELTS trainer. I spent about 3-4 weeks refining my technique. I used IDP practice materials heavily—they are the most accurate way to understand what examiners are looking for.
How would you rate the overall difficulty of the test? Is IELTS difficult in Canada?
I’d call it fair, but demanding. It isn't necessarily ‘hard’ if you know the language, but it requires a lot of mental stamina to stay focused for the entire duration.
What was the hardest IELTS component? What did you find the most challenging and why?
Writing Task 2 was the biggest challenge. Trying to maintain a high level of vocabulary while following a strict logical structure under a time limit is a real test of your composure.
How satisfied were you with the test day experience?
The organization was smooth. The staff at the center were professional and kept things moving, which really helps keep your nerves in check when you're already stressed about the results.
Did you feel the test accurately reflected your English language skills?
Yes, it did. It felt very practical—the speaking and listening components especially mirror how I communicate in my daily life as a supervisor and in my classes.
What was your overall band score?
I achieved an overall Band 8.0.
What advice would you give to future IELTS test takers in Canada as someone who scored a Band 8?
Don't treat it like a memory test. If you’re already in Canada, use your surroundings. Talk to people at work, listen to local podcasts, and pay attention to how people structure their thoughts. I found that listening to content that reflects real Canadian conversations and professional environments was the most helpful.
Three podcasts I’d recommend to students are The Dose by CBC, which is excellent for academic test takers because it explains complex health and science topics in a way that is easy to follow but uses great vocabulary. Front Burner by CBC helps with the Listening and Speaking components because it covers daily news and current events in Canada, giving students 'real world' context they can use in their interviews. I also suggest Canadaland for those wanting to hear different Canadian accents and more diverse, conversational English.
Also, take the IDP practice tests seriously—they are the closest thing to the real exam day experience.
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