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What IELTS score do I need to apply for teaching positions in Canada?
Listening General Training & General Training UKVI Results General information
Answers from experts
Vincent Blokker
IELTS Expert
Each provincial and territorial regulatory body has specific certification requirements, which internationally educated teachers must meet to teach in a given Canadian province or territory.
For example, the Ontario College of Teachers sets the requirements to register as a teacher in that province. For IELTS Academic, you must achieve a minimum overall score of 6.5, with minimum scores of 6 in reading, 6 in listening, 6 in writing, and 6.5 in speaking.
Because each province and territory may have different requirements, always check with the teacher regulatory body where you want to use your IELTS results to see what scores you need.
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Jun 16, 2025
Answers
What IELTS score do I need to apply for teaching positions in Canada?
Listening General Training & General Training UKVI Results General information
Last answered by Vincent
Answers from experts
Vincent Blokker
IELTS Expert
Each provincial and territorial regulatory body has specific certification requirements, which internationally educated teachers must meet to teach in a given Canadian province or territory.
For example, the Ontario College of Teachers sets the requirements to register as a teacher in that province. For IELTS Academic, you must achieve a minimum overall score of 6.5, with minimum scores of 6 in reading, 6 in listening, 6 in writing, and 6.5 in speaking.
Because each province and territory may have different requirements, always check with the teacher regulatory body where you want to use your IELTS results to see what scores you need.
Read more
Jun 16, 2025
Do I have to write in pen or pencil in the IELTS test?
Listening Academic & Academic UKVI Results General information
Last answered by Jess
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Jess Christie
IELTS Expert
If you are doing your IELTS test on paper, you will need to write with a black pen. This is required for the system to pick up your answers when marking is being completed. If you are doing your IELTS test on the computer, you will be provided with a pen to make notes.
Jun 2, 2025
Answers
Do I have to write in pen or pencil in the IELTS test?
Listening Academic & Academic UKVI Results General information
Last answered by Jess
Answers from experts
Jess Christie
IELTS Expert
If you are doing your IELTS test on paper, you will need to write with a black pen. This is required for the system to pick up your answers when marking is being completed. If you are doing your IELTS test on the computer, you will be provided with a pen to make notes.
Read more
Jun 2, 2025
The lecture in Part 4 is the most difficult part of the IELTS Listening test for me. Do you have any advice?
Listening General Training & General Training UKVI Results General information
Last answered by Reza
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Reza Tasviri
IELTS Expert
Yes.
There is always the practice that indirectly helps, and that is listen, listen, listen: podcasts, lectures, speeches, etc. The other advice I have is : always read the questions carefully, remember the key words, look for words that may direct you to the answer, things like” next”, “however”, “in summary”, “as a result”, and also try to predict what the answers might be.
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Jun 30, 2025
Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
I’d recommend listening out for signposting language. When you’re driving, road signs give you directions and warn you what is coming up ahead. Similarly, speakers use signposting language to tell you what information is coming next in a talk or lecture. They might use words or phrases to show the sequence of ideas or a change of topic e.g. “Let’s begin with” or “now, let’s look at...”
Paying attention to signposting language can also make it easier to follow a lecture because it shows how ideas are related to each other. Listen for language for giving examples, comparing and contrasting and showing cause and effect e.g. “for example”, “although” and “because of this.”
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May 27, 2025
Answers
The lecture in Part 4 is the most difficult part of the IELTS Listening test for me. Do you have any advice?
Listening General Training & General Training UKVI Results General information
Last answered by Reza
Answers from experts
- Most recent
- Oldest
Reza Tasviri
IELTS Expert
Yes.
There is always the practice that indirectly helps, and that is listen, listen, listen: podcasts, lectures, speeches, etc. The other advice I have is : always read the questions carefully, remember the key words, look for words that may direct you to the answer, things like” next”, “however”, “in summary”, “as a result”, and also try to predict what the answers might be.
Read more
Jun 30, 2025
Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
I’d recommend listening out for signposting language. When you’re driving, road signs give you directions and warn you what is coming up ahead. Similarly, speakers use signposting language to tell you what information is coming next in a talk or lecture. They might use words or phrases to show the sequence of ideas or a change of topic e.g. “Let’s begin with” or “now, let’s look at...”
Paying attention to signposting language can also make it easier to follow a lecture because it shows how ideas are related to each other. Listen for language for giving examples, comparing and contrasting and showing cause and effect e.g. “for example”, “although” and “because of this.”
Read more
May 27, 2025
I struggle with ‘labelling a map’ questions in the IELTS Listening test. Do you have any advice?
Listening Academic & Academic UKVI Results General information
Last answered by Rocco
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Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
When previewing the question, have a look at the options that are near each other. Think about how they are similar and different. E.g. both option A and option B appear before the river, but option A is opposite the school and option B is next to the school.
Jun 17, 2025
Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
These question types can be challenging because you have to think about where you are on the map while you listen. I’d recommend reviewing vocabulary related to location and giving directions e.g. take the second street on the right, it’s on the corner in front of the pharmacy etc. Become familiar with compass directions in English (north, northeast, east, southeast etc) to orientate yourself during the recording.
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May 13, 2025
Answers
I struggle with ‘labelling a map’ questions in the IELTS Listening test. Do you have any advice?
Listening Academic & Academic UKVI Results General information
Last answered by Rocco
Answers from experts
- Most recent
- Oldest
Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
When previewing the question, have a look at the options that are near each other. Think about how they are similar and different. E.g. both option A and option B appear before the river, but option A is opposite the school and option B is next to the school.
Read more
Jun 17, 2025
Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
These question types can be challenging because you have to think about where you are on the map while you listen. I’d recommend reviewing vocabulary related to location and giving directions e.g. take the second street on the right, it’s on the corner in front of the pharmacy etc. Become familiar with compass directions in English (north, northeast, east, southeast etc) to orientate yourself during the recording.
Read more
May 13, 2025
How long will it take me to move from a band 5 to band 6 in IELTS?
Listening Academic & Academic UKVI Preparation Test tips
Last answered by Reza
Answers from experts
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Reza Tasviri
IELTS Expert
There is no definite answer because it depends on how much you practise, which skills you need to improve most in and in which areas (e.g. grammar, vocabulary, or pronunciation e.g.). What is clear is that you need to work out what you need to work most on and practice daily.
Jun 30, 2025
Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
It depends on how much work you are prepared to do. Consider setting some goals to help you stay motivated as you need to be consistent in your practice. Remember, there is no short cut, so be prepared to put in the effort.
Jun 17, 2025
Answers
How long will it take me to move from a band 5 to band 6 in IELTS?
Listening Academic & Academic UKVI Preparation Test tips
Last answered by Reza
Answers from experts
- Most recent
- Oldest
Reza Tasviri
IELTS Expert
There is no definite answer because it depends on how much you practise, which skills you need to improve most in and in which areas (e.g. grammar, vocabulary, or pronunciation e.g.). What is clear is that you need to work out what you need to work most on and practice daily.
Read more
Jun 30, 2025
Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
It depends on how much work you are prepared to do. Consider setting some goals to help you stay motivated as you need to be consistent in your practice. Remember, there is no short cut, so be prepared to put in the effort.
Read more
Jun 17, 2025
Why do I miss answers in the Listening test even when I understand the audio?
Listening
Last answered by Fahad
Answers from experts
Fahad Rafique
IELTS Expert
There are various reasons to missing an answer while doing your listening test. One of the main errors is reading questions while listening for an answer. You should've read the question during the pause and underlined what you are looking for. Don't get distracted by the conversation going back and forth within the test. The answer would be right infront of you. Do understand that if you think you missed an answer, go to the next question or you will miss more. Use short hand while answering and then coming back to see if spelling mistakes were made and fix that. Distraction is the biggest factor while taking the listening test. It can be a wrong sentence heard or your mind playing tricks considering you are engrossed in gathering information.
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Jun 5, 2026
Answers
Why do I miss answers in the Listening test even when I understand the audio?
Listening
Last answered by Fahad
Answers from experts
Fahad Rafique
IELTS Expert
There are various reasons to missing an answer while doing your listening test. One of the main errors is reading questions while listening for an answer. You should've read the question during the pause and underlined what you are looking for. Don't get distracted by the conversation going back and forth within the test. The answer would be right infront of you. Do understand that if you think you missed an answer, go to the next question or you will miss more. Use short hand while answering and then coming back to see if spelling mistakes were made and fix that. Distraction is the biggest factor while taking the listening test. It can be a wrong sentence heard or your mind playing tricks considering you are engrossed in gathering information.
Read more
Jun 5, 2026
What are the different ways to write the time in IELTS Listening answers?
Listening Academic & Academic UKVI
Last answered by Linda
Answers from experts
Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
You can write the time as numbers or words in your IELTS Listening test. Just make sure you follow any instructions that give a word limit e.g. Write no more than TWO WORDS AND/OR A NUMBER.
When you’re writing the time as numbers, there are some variations with punctuation. For example, you can write 7:45 or 7.45. If you want to specify that it’s after midday, you can write 7:45pm or 7:45 p.m.
In English, we sometimes use the 24-hour clock format (e.g. 19:45) in situations where it’s important to avoid confusion. Some examples are when we discuss time zones or travel timetables. If you enjoy watching action movies and hospital dramas, you’ve probably noticed that 24-hour time is used in these situations too!
When you take your IELTS Listening test, bear in mind that the speaker could say the time in a few different ways.
For instance, if the answer is 7:45pm, the speaker might say ‘seven forty-five’ or ‘quarter to eight.’ They might also add ‘in the evening’ to make it clear that they’re not talking about the morning.
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Jun 4, 2026
Answers
What are the different ways to write the time in IELTS Listening answers?
Listening Academic & Academic UKVI
Last answered by Linda
Answers from experts
Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
You can write the time as numbers or words in your IELTS Listening test. Just make sure you follow any instructions that give a word limit e.g. Write no more than TWO WORDS AND/OR A NUMBER.
When you’re writing the time as numbers, there are some variations with punctuation. For example, you can write 7:45 or 7.45. If you want to specify that it’s after midday, you can write 7:45pm or 7:45 p.m.
In English, we sometimes use the 24-hour clock format (e.g. 19:45) in situations where it’s important to avoid confusion. Some examples are when we discuss time zones or travel timetables. If you enjoy watching action movies and hospital dramas, you’ve probably noticed that 24-hour time is used in these situations too!
When you take your IELTS Listening test, bear in mind that the speaker could say the time in a few different ways.
For instance, if the answer is 7:45pm, the speaker might say ‘seven forty-five’ or ‘quarter to eight.’ They might also add ‘in the evening’ to make it clear that they’re not talking about the morning.
Read more
Jun 4, 2026
Can I skip questions and come back later in the IELTS test?
Listening Academic & Academic UKVI Test format On paper
Last answered by Jess
Answers from experts
Jess Christie
IELTS Expert
Yes, you can move through the questions within the section at your own pace and desire. This is very useful during the Reading and Writing sections as it allows you to start with the questions you are most confident with.
For the listening section however it is important to stay in line with the audio, so follow along the questions in order.
Jun 4, 2026
Answers
Can I skip questions and come back later in the IELTS test?
Listening Academic & Academic UKVI Test format On paper
Last answered by Jess
Answers from experts
Jess Christie
IELTS Expert
Yes, you can move through the questions within the section at your own pace and desire. This is very useful during the Reading and Writing sections as it allows you to start with the questions you are most confident with.
For the listening section however it is important to stay in line with the audio, so follow along the questions in order.
Read more
Jun 4, 2026
I have hearing difficulties. What extra support can you offer for my IELTS Listening and Speaking tests?
Listening Academic & Academic UKVI
Last answered by Jess
Answers from experts
Jess Christie
IELTS Expert
IELTS can offer a wide range of access arrangements. For hearing difficulties we can offer modified listening tests in a private room that are played through twice. For those with more severe hearing difficulties we can also offer lip reading listening tests including practice sessions with the designated staff who will assist you on the day. Exemptions can also be obtained in the most severe of cases.
Please contact your local test centre to arrange these ammendments to your test. Ensure you allow enough time as applications for access arrangements must be approved by Cambridge in advance.
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Jun 4, 2026
Answers
I have hearing difficulties. What extra support can you offer for my IELTS Listening and Speaking tests?
Listening Academic & Academic UKVI
Last answered by Jess
Answers from experts
Jess Christie
IELTS Expert
IELTS can offer a wide range of access arrangements. For hearing difficulties we can offer modified listening tests in a private room that are played through twice. For those with more severe hearing difficulties we can also offer lip reading listening tests including practice sessions with the designated staff who will assist you on the day. Exemptions can also be obtained in the most severe of cases.
Please contact your local test centre to arrange these ammendments to your test. Ensure you allow enough time as applications for access arrangements must be approved by Cambridge in advance.
Read more
Jun 4, 2026
Is it free to reschedule my IELTS test?
Listening Academic & Academic UKVI
Last answered by Jess
Answers from experts
Jess Christie
IELTS Expert
In Australia, IELTS offers you one change of date, test format, or module completely free of charge up until the day of your test.
For more information, please contact your test centre.
Jun 4, 2026
Answers
Is it free to reschedule my IELTS test?
Listening Academic & Academic UKVI
Last answered by Jess
Answers from experts
Jess Christie
IELTS Expert
In Australia, IELTS offers you one change of date, test format, or module completely free of charge up until the day of your test.
For more information, please contact your test centre.
Read more
Jun 4, 2026
Where can I take the IELTS test in New Zealand?
Listening Academic & Academic UKVI Results General information
Last answered by Lewis
Answers from experts
Lewis Crannitch
IELTS Expert
IELTS is available across the North and South Islands, with Academic and General Training offered at a wide range of centres.
In the North Island, you can take IELTS in Auckland (IDP Auckland, IDP South Auckland (Manukau), University of Auckland, Unitec, and Massey University - Albany), Hamilton (Wintec), Tauranga (IDP Tauranga), Wellington (Massey University), and Palmerston North (Massey University).
In the South Island, test centres include Nelson (Massey University), Dunedin (University of Otago Language Centre), Christchurch (Ara Institute of Canterbury and University of Canterbury), and Queenstown (IDP Queenstown).
You can find your nearest test centre here: Find IELTS test dates and locations
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Sep 15, 2025
Answers
Where can I take the IELTS test in New Zealand?
Listening Academic & Academic UKVI Results General information
Last answered by Lewis
Answers from experts
Lewis Crannitch
IELTS Expert
IELTS is available across the North and South Islands, with Academic and General Training offered at a wide range of centres.
In the North Island, you can take IELTS in Auckland (IDP Auckland, IDP South Auckland (Manukau), University of Auckland, Unitec, and Massey University - Albany), Hamilton (Wintec), Tauranga (IDP Tauranga), Wellington (Massey University), and Palmerston North (Massey University).
In the South Island, test centres include Nelson (Massey University), Dunedin (University of Otago Language Centre), Christchurch (Ara Institute of Canterbury and University of Canterbury), and Queenstown (IDP Queenstown).
You can find your nearest test centre here: Find IELTS test dates and locations
Read more
Sep 15, 2025
How frequently are IELTS tests available in New Zealand?
Listening General Training & General Training UKVI Results General information
Last answered by Lewis
Answers from experts
Lewis Crannitch
IELTS Expert
You can usually find an IELTS test somewhere in New Zealand every day of the week. Some test centres even offer multiple tests per day.
IELTS on Computer tests are run frequently, with some centres offering sessions almost every day of the week, including weekends. Paper-based IELTS tests, on the other hand, are usually scheduled once or twice a month.
In larger cities such as Auckland, where there are multiple centres, you’ll find a wide choice of test dates across the week. To see the latest availability and book your preferred test, visit our booking page here: Book IELTS test dates
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Sep 15, 2025
Answers
How frequently are IELTS tests available in New Zealand?
Listening General Training & General Training UKVI Results General information
Last answered by Lewis
Answers from experts
Lewis Crannitch
IELTS Expert
You can usually find an IELTS test somewhere in New Zealand every day of the week. Some test centres even offer multiple tests per day.
IELTS on Computer tests are run frequently, with some centres offering sessions almost every day of the week, including weekends. Paper-based IELTS tests, on the other hand, are usually scheduled once or twice a month.
In larger cities such as Auckland, where there are multiple centres, you’ll find a wide choice of test dates across the week. To see the latest availability and book your preferred test, visit our booking page here: Book IELTS test dates
Read more
Sep 15, 2025
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Fahad Rafique
Canada
16 years
Experience
IELTS Expert
Hello! I'm Fahad, and I've been a part of IELTS since April 2010. Having been born and raised in the UAE and then migrating to Canada, I can truly say that IELTS takes you places. I firmly believe that success belongs to those who actively seek it. I'm here to help answer any questions you may have about IELTS and guide you on how to take that crucial first step toward achieving your international dreams – whether it's study, migration or work. I look forward to supporting you!!
Last online Aug 2, 2025
Trending
Jess Christie
Australia
8 years
Experience
IELTS Expert
Hi, I'm Jess and I’m an IELTS Expert who has worked in the world of IELTS for 7 years. I help test takers do the best they can in the IELTS test by providing them with helpful tips to ensure they have a smooth test day. I am originally from regional Victoria in Australia, but I was an international student when I went to Ireland for University. I came back and decided to work in the world of international education, which led me to IELTS.
Last online Jun 25, 2025
Trending
Lewis Crannitch
New Zealand
2 years
Experience
IELTS Expert
Hi, I’m Lewis. I’ve worked with IELTS in New Zealand since 2017 and taught English in Japan, China, and NZ. Having also learned a language myself in China, I understand the challenges test takers face. I track English proficiency requirements in NZ and deliver IELTS Masterclasses and familiarisation sessions to support preparation, share resources, and make test day easier. I look forward to connecting with you on your IELTS journey.
Last online Sep 15, 2025
Trending
Linda Alley
Australia
11 years
Experience
IELTS Expert
Hi! I’m Linda. I’m here to help you reach your IELTS goals by answering any questions you might have about the test and how to prepare. You may have seen me on our video podcast, IELTS Prepare by IDP. I also create learning materials and blog posts for IELTS test takers. Over the past 10 years, I’ve taught English as a Second Language to students from all over the world, so please get in touch if you have any questions on how to improve your language skills.
Last online Sep 16, 2025
Trending
Reza Tasviri
Australia
18 years
Experience
IELTS Expert
Hi, I’m Reza. I’m here to help you with advice on how to effectively use your knowledge of English to get the best outcome in your IELTS test. I can answer questions on what the test asks you to do, how it assesses your performance, and how you can show you have what it takes. I’ve been involved with IELTS for 17 years now. I’ve been an English Language teacher for 27 years and a lifelong learner (English is not my first language. I started when I was 17 and haven’t stopped since).
Last online Jul 9, 2025
Trending
Rocco Nigro
Australia
26 years
Experience
IELTS Expert
Hello, my name is Rocco and I am one of the IELTS Experts here at IDP. Since 1995, I've been involved in English language teaching, teacher training, assessment and academic management, which has helped me develop a wealth of knowledge about the IELTS test. I enjoy meeting students and test takers from all over the world. If you have any questions about how to do your best in the IELTS Listening, Reading, Writing or Speaking tests, I can give you some good approaches to help you on test day.
Last online Jun 18, 2025
Trending
Vincent Blokker
Australia
11 years
Experience
IELTS Expert
Hi! I’m Vincent, and I'm here to help you succeed in your IELTS journey. I live in the beautiful city of Melbourne, Australia, but I work with students from all over the world. I can help with advice and resources and answer your questions about IELTS. I also write blogs with tips for the test and have created study materials for IELTS. I’m an expert on any questions about the organisations, universities, and governments that accept IELTS for work, study, or your visa. Feel free to contact me!
Last online Jul 1, 2025
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Last answered by Vincent