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What can I do to reduce my mistakes in the IELTS Speaking test?
Speaking General Training & General Training UKVI Results General information
Answers from experts
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Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
If you are talking about grammar errors, it can be a good idea to record yourself when you do speaking practice. You can then go back and listen to see what kind of errors you make. You may see a pattern - if so, do some exercises on that particular problem area.
Jun 30, 2025
Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
Practise speaking English regularly, through both everyday conversations and by answering some IELTS Speaking test practice questions . Ask a teacher or some English-speaking friends for feedback. They can point out areas where you may be making mistakes, such as pronunciation or vocabulary. This will help you decide what you need to work on before your IELTS test.
Read more
May 29, 2025
Answers
What can I do to reduce my mistakes in the IELTS Speaking test?
Speaking General Training & General Training UKVI Results General information
Last answered by Rocco
Answers from experts
- Most recent
- Oldest
Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
If you are talking about grammar errors, it can be a good idea to record yourself when you do speaking practice. You can then go back and listen to see what kind of errors you make. You may see a pattern - if so, do some exercises on that particular problem area.
Read more
Jun 30, 2025
Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
Practise speaking English regularly, through both everyday conversations and by answering some IELTS Speaking test practice questions . Ask a teacher or some English-speaking friends for feedback. They can point out areas where you may be making mistakes, such as pronunciation or vocabulary. This will help you decide what you need to work on before your IELTS test.
Read more
May 29, 2025
What are some common topics that the examiner might ask me about in the IELTS Speaking test?
Speaking Academic & Academic UKVI Results General information
Last answered by Rocco
Answers from experts
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Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
There are no common topics as a wide range of themes are used. Try not to predict what you could be asked and be orepared to talk about any topic.
Jun 17, 2025
Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
Part 1 of the IELTS Speaking test focuses on everyday topics about your life such as work or studies, your hometown, family, hobbies and experiences. In Part 2, you’ll be asked to speak for up to 2 minutes on one topic. Part 3 focuses on discussion questions about this topic. For example, the questions might cover areas like technology, health, tourism, the environment, shopping or education. Work on building up your vocabulary, so you’re prepared to speak about a wide variety of topics.
Read more
May 27, 2025
Answers
What are some common topics that the examiner might ask me about in the IELTS Speaking test?
Speaking Academic & Academic UKVI Results General information
Last answered by Rocco
Answers from experts
- Most recent
- Oldest
Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
There are no common topics as a wide range of themes are used. Try not to predict what you could be asked and be orepared to talk about any topic.
Read more
Jun 17, 2025
Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
Part 1 of the IELTS Speaking test focuses on everyday topics about your life such as work or studies, your hometown, family, hobbies and experiences. In Part 2, you’ll be asked to speak for up to 2 minutes on one topic. Part 3 focuses on discussion questions about this topic. For example, the questions might cover areas like technology, health, tourism, the environment, shopping or education. Work on building up your vocabulary, so you’re prepared to speak about a wide variety of topics.
Read more
May 27, 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
Answers from experts
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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.”
Read more
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
Is it necessary to take IELTS preparation classes, or can I study on my own using online materials?
Academic & Academic UKVI Preparation Preparation materials
Last answered by Linda
Answers from experts
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- Oldest
Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
IELTS preparation classes are a good option if you’d like feedback on your writing and speaking. A teacher can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses and give you advice on how you can improve before you take your test.
But don’t worry if you can’t make it to classes - there are also plenty of ways to prepare by yourself. Just make sure you choose official IELTS preparation materials, which you can find on our website .
If you can’t attend classes, a self-paced online IELTS preparation course might suit you better. Our IELTS by IDP app offers two free taster courses by Macquarie University and E2 Test Prep.
Read more
Aug 5, 2025
Reza Tasviri
IELTS Expert
As long as you use good quality materials from reliable sources, you should be fine. It’s best to choose official IELTS materials. Just remember that there is a lot of “myths” and misinformation about the test online and particularly on social platforms. They can truly be a time waster and create anxiety, so it’s best to avoid them. IDP is one of the co-owners of the IELTS test and you can find our preparation resources at: IDP IELTS preparation materials
Read more
Jul 1, 2025
Answers
Is it necessary to take IELTS preparation classes, or can I study on my own using online materials?
Academic & Academic UKVI Preparation Preparation materials
Last answered by Linda
Answers from experts
- Most recent
- Oldest
Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
IELTS preparation classes are a good option if you’d like feedback on your writing and speaking. A teacher can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses and give you advice on how you can improve before you take your test.
But don’t worry if you can’t make it to classes - there are also plenty of ways to prepare by yourself. Just make sure you choose official IELTS preparation materials, which you can find on our website .
If you can’t attend classes, a self-paced online IELTS preparation course might suit you better. Our IELTS by IDP app offers two free taster courses by Macquarie University and E2 Test Prep.
Read more
Aug 5, 2025
Reza Tasviri
IELTS Expert
As long as you use good quality materials from reliable sources, you should be fine. It’s best to choose official IELTS materials. Just remember that there is a lot of “myths” and misinformation about the test online and particularly on social platforms. They can truly be a time waster and create anxiety, so it’s best to avoid them. IDP is one of the co-owners of the IELTS test and you can find our preparation resources at: IDP IELTS preparation materials
Read more
Jul 1, 2025
I’m feeling really nervous about the Speaking test, especially my examiner. Any tips on overcoming this?
Speaking Academic & Academic UKVI Test day Speaking test
Last answered by Reza
Answers from experts
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- Oldest
Reza Tasviri
IELTS Expert
It’s very normal to feel nervous before the speaking test: we sometimes lack confidence about our speaking, we are too stressed about getting the score we need, we have had previous stressful experiences with a test, or we may have heard stories of other people’s experiences and their challenges. I think if you work out where your stress comes from, it’s much easier to deal with it. As a rule, keep reminding yourself that every speaking test is unique so what you have heard from other test takers may not be true in your case, the examiner is a trained professional who is there to help you feel calm and show your best performance, and that being stressed is part of being serious about the test. On the day of the test a few things work for me: keep smiling, spend half an hour or an hour before you go to the test doing an activity that you like and enjoy (going to a café? listening to music? walking? catching up with a friend?). Also like athletes need warm up, you may need to and a good 20-30 minute warm up before the test is repeating after a recording of a speaker you like and who speaks good English (an actor, a sportsperson, a politician, an influencer, e.g) and trying to reach their pace of fluency and clarity of pronunciation.
Read more
Aug 6, 2025
Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
They are only human, so don't worry about them. In fact, they try to put test takers at ease, not try to pressure them. Just be yourself.
Jun 17, 2025
Jess Christie
IELTS Expert
Don’t worry – you're not alone. It’s completely normal to feel nervous before any test. Here are a few things you can do to build your confidence. Get familiar with the types of questions you’ll be asked in the Speaking test by watching our IELTS Speaking samples playlist on our YouTube channel. Try to avoid speaking quickly as this will affect your pronunciation. Remember that good fluency does not mean speaking fast – it means you can speak without hesitation and extend your answers. Speak naturally and use your own words. It’s hard to speak with good pronunciation and accuracy if you are trying to respond to the examiner’s questions with memorised answers.
Read more
Feb 5, 2025
Answers
I’m feeling really nervous about the Speaking test, especially my examiner. Any tips on overcoming this?
Speaking Academic & Academic UKVI Test day Speaking test
Last answered by Reza
Answers from experts
- Most recent
- Oldest
Reza Tasviri
IELTS Expert
It’s very normal to feel nervous before the speaking test: we sometimes lack confidence about our speaking, we are too stressed about getting the score we need, we have had previous stressful experiences with a test, or we may have heard stories of other people’s experiences and their challenges. I think if you work out where your stress comes from, it’s much easier to deal with it. As a rule, keep reminding yourself that every speaking test is unique so what you have heard from other test takers may not be true in your case, the examiner is a trained professional who is there to help you feel calm and show your best performance, and that being stressed is part of being serious about the test. On the day of the test a few things work for me: keep smiling, spend half an hour or an hour before you go to the test doing an activity that you like and enjoy (going to a café? listening to music? walking? catching up with a friend?). Also like athletes need warm up, you may need to and a good 20-30 minute warm up before the test is repeating after a recording of a speaker you like and who speaks good English (an actor, a sportsperson, a politician, an influencer, e.g) and trying to reach their pace of fluency and clarity of pronunciation.
Read more
Aug 6, 2025
Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
They are only human, so don't worry about them. In fact, they try to put test takers at ease, not try to pressure them. Just be yourself.
Read more
Jun 17, 2025
Jess Christie
IELTS Expert
Don’t worry – you're not alone. It’s completely normal to feel nervous before any test. Here are a few things you can do to build your confidence. Get familiar with the types of questions you’ll be asked in the Speaking test by watching our IELTS Speaking samples playlist on our YouTube channel. Try to avoid speaking quickly as this will affect your pronunciation. Remember that good fluency does not mean speaking fast – it means you can speak without hesitation and extend your answers. Speak naturally and use your own words. It’s hard to speak with good pronunciation and accuracy if you are trying to respond to the examiner’s questions with memorised answers.
Read more
Feb 5, 2025
I’m confused by the True/False/Not Given questions in IELTS Reading. Do you have any tips?
Reading Academic & Academic UKVI Preparation Test tips
Last answered by Rocco
Answers from experts
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- Oldest
Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
Firstly, only focus on the True or False options (Not Given is used as your last option if needed). Focus on the key words in the statement, like the nouns, verbs, adjectives and adverbs. If the statement is True, the information in the text is the same. If the information is opposite, the answer should be False. If you can't work out if the statement is the same or opposite, then use Not Given.
Read more
Aug 7, 2025
Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
Just focus on the True or False aspect first and see if the statement is the same or opposite to the information in the text. If you can't decide between the two, then use the Not Given option.
Jun 17, 2025
Reza Tasviri
IELTS Expert
Not easy question types, I agree. Read the statements a couple of times and ask yourself “Does the text actually say/mention this idea?”. If yes, does the question agree with it? If yes, it’s true and if not, it’s false. If I can’t find it in the text and I “think” the passage says it, highly likely it’s a “Not Given”. A couple of other things: the information appears in the same order as the questions are presented, so if you find yourself looking in different places and going forward and backward, you are probably doing it wrong. Also, do not be misled by an exact word match. Ideas in the questions are paraphrased so make sure you focus on “meaning” and not “words”.
Read more
May 13, 2025
Answers
I’m confused by the True/False/Not Given questions in IELTS Reading. Do you have any tips?
Reading Academic & Academic UKVI Preparation Test tips
Last answered by Rocco
Answers from experts
- Most recent
- Oldest
Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
Firstly, only focus on the True or False options (Not Given is used as your last option if needed). Focus on the key words in the statement, like the nouns, verbs, adjectives and adverbs. If the statement is True, the information in the text is the same. If the information is opposite, the answer should be False. If you can't work out if the statement is the same or opposite, then use Not Given.
Read more
Aug 7, 2025
Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
Just focus on the True or False aspect first and see if the statement is the same or opposite to the information in the text. If you can't decide between the two, then use the Not Given option.
Read more
Jun 17, 2025
Reza Tasviri
IELTS Expert
Not easy question types, I agree. Read the statements a couple of times and ask yourself “Does the text actually say/mention this idea?”. If yes, does the question agree with it? If yes, it’s true and if not, it’s false. If I can’t find it in the text and I “think” the passage says it, highly likely it’s a “Not Given”. A couple of other things: the information appears in the same order as the questions are presented, so if you find yourself looking in different places and going forward and backward, you are probably doing it wrong. Also, do not be misled by an exact word match. Ideas in the questions are paraphrased so make sure you focus on “meaning” and not “words”.
Read more
May 13, 2025
I'm finding it hard to think of ideas for IELTS Writing Task 2. Could someone please help?
Writing General Training & General Training UKVI Results General information
Last answered by Rocco
Answers from experts
- Most recent
- Oldest
Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
When looking at the task, highlight the key words to help you focus when you write down your plan. Besides that, make sure you read widely on as many topics as you can. This will help you generate ideas and vocabulary to make the task easier.
Aug 7, 2025
Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
Try reading more on a wide variety of topics. This will not only help you with ideas, but also with the language you need on more topics.
Jun 17, 2025
Reza Tasviri
IELTS Expert
We may run blank every now and then when we want to write something, so it’s important not to panic in the first place. Ideas come from somewhere. We get ideas through reading (e.g. the news), watching (e.g. documentaries even short ones) or listening (to a podcast for example). IELTS topics are general enough so if you read, listen and watch regularly you will already have come across the topic areas. Then give yourself the chance to read the question a couple of times to make sure you fully understand it and you have not missed anything. Now think about possible answers and ask, “what do I think?”, “why?”, “how”, “where can this be true”, and questions like that.
Read more
Feb 7, 2025
Answers
I'm finding it hard to think of ideas for IELTS Writing Task 2. Could someone please help?
Writing General Training & General Training UKVI Results General information
Last answered by Rocco
Answers from experts
- Most recent
- Oldest
Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
When looking at the task, highlight the key words to help you focus when you write down your plan. Besides that, make sure you read widely on as many topics as you can. This will help you generate ideas and vocabulary to make the task easier.
Read more
Aug 7, 2025
Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
Try reading more on a wide variety of topics. This will not only help you with ideas, but also with the language you need on more topics.
Read more
Jun 17, 2025
Reza Tasviri
IELTS Expert
We may run blank every now and then when we want to write something, so it’s important not to panic in the first place. Ideas come from somewhere. We get ideas through reading (e.g. the news), watching (e.g. documentaries even short ones) or listening (to a podcast for example). IELTS topics are general enough so if you read, listen and watch regularly you will already have come across the topic areas. Then give yourself the chance to read the question a couple of times to make sure you fully understand it and you have not missed anything. Now think about possible answers and ask, “what do I think?”, “why?”, “how”, “where can this be true”, and questions like that.
Read more
Feb 7, 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
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.
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
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
I live in a small town in Vietnam where most people don’t know English. How can I improve my speaking skills for IELTS?
Speaking Academic & Academic UKVI Preparation Free preparation
Last answered by Reza
Answers from experts
- Most recent
- Oldest
Reza Tasviri
IELTS Expert
I know the feeling as I learned English long before internet or social media and there was no one around to speak in English with. It can be frustrating, but the upside is there are a few things you can do. There are sone very good language learning forums or language exchange platforms online where people get together, share ideas and have chat rooms or speaking clubs where they speak. Also, more and more chatbots are becoming available for free speaking practice. If you are interested in computer games and online gaming, there is also some opportunity there to communicate with other players in real-time. Last, but not at all least, solo practice of talking, recording yourself and listening back to yourself is a proven technique.
Read more
Aug 6, 2025
Reza Tasviri
IELTS Expert
I know it’s a tough task. I had the same experience myself when I was learning English many years ago, but it’s much better times now. Find people online who would be willing to speak with you in English. Also there are chatbots available these days that you can speak with. Generative AI (e.g. Chat GPT) may also be helpful.
Jun 30, 2025
Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
Don’t worry. It’s still possible to achieve a high band score in IELTS Speaking – even if you’re not living an English-speaking country. To improve your speaking skills, try an online language exchange. Many of these are free or only involve a small cost. They’re a great way to improve your fluency or try out new phrases in a friendly, low-pressure environment. You can also practise IELTS Speaking topics on your own. Record yourself on your phone. When you listen back, think about what areas you can improve. Want to hear some more ideas from someone who has been there before? Tune into episode 10 of our video podcast and listen to May Huynh who shares how she got a band 8 while preparing for IELTS in Vietnam.
Read more
Feb 7, 2025
Answers
I live in a small town in Vietnam where most people don’t know English. How can I improve my speaking skills for IELTS?
Speaking Academic & Academic UKVI Preparation Free preparation
Last answered by Reza
Answers from experts
- Most recent
- Oldest
Reza Tasviri
IELTS Expert
I know the feeling as I learned English long before internet or social media and there was no one around to speak in English with. It can be frustrating, but the upside is there are a few things you can do. There are sone very good language learning forums or language exchange platforms online where people get together, share ideas and have chat rooms or speaking clubs where they speak. Also, more and more chatbots are becoming available for free speaking practice. If you are interested in computer games and online gaming, there is also some opportunity there to communicate with other players in real-time. Last, but not at all least, solo practice of talking, recording yourself and listening back to yourself is a proven technique.
Read more
Aug 6, 2025
Reza Tasviri
IELTS Expert
I know it’s a tough task. I had the same experience myself when I was learning English many years ago, but it’s much better times now. Find people online who would be willing to speak with you in English. Also there are chatbots available these days that you can speak with. Generative AI (e.g. Chat GPT) may also be helpful.
Read more
Jun 30, 2025
Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
Don’t worry. It’s still possible to achieve a high band score in IELTS Speaking – even if you’re not living an English-speaking country. To improve your speaking skills, try an online language exchange. Many of these are free or only involve a small cost. They’re a great way to improve your fluency or try out new phrases in a friendly, low-pressure environment. You can also practise IELTS Speaking topics on your own. Record yourself on your phone. When you listen back, think about what areas you can improve. Want to hear some more ideas from someone who has been there before? Tune into episode 10 of our video podcast and listen to May Huynh who shares how she got a band 8 while preparing for IELTS in Vietnam.
Read more
Feb 7, 2025
I got a band 6 in IELTS Writing. How can I increase my score to 7?
Writing Academic & Academic UKVI Results Improving band score
Last answered by Rocco
Answers from experts
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- Oldest
Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
Have a look at the public band descriptors to get a good idea of the requirements of band 7 for each criteria. For example, your body paragraphs in Task 2 need one cental idea, you need to use a range of complex vocabulary and grammar accurately, use a range of connectors, etc.
Aug 7, 2025
Reza Tasviri
IELTS Expert
A very common question as 7 is the band that can be critical for many. As a starting point I think it’s best to have a look at the IELTS Writing band descriptors. Try to have a quick read through and then only focus on the descriptors at band 6 and band 7. Read them closely. In each box in the table (for each criterion, e.g. Task Achievement, Coherence and Cohesion, etc) there are a few lines. Read each line in band 7 and ask yourself did I do this in my test, or did I do what the lines in band 6 say? This helps you get a better picture of where you may have lost marks and where you can gain some. You can make your understanding even better by looking at official samples for band 6 and 7.
Read more
Feb 7, 2025
Answers
I got a band 6 in IELTS Writing. How can I increase my score to 7?
Writing Academic & Academic UKVI Results Improving band score
Last answered by Rocco
Answers from experts
- Most recent
- Oldest
Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
Have a look at the public band descriptors to get a good idea of the requirements of band 7 for each criteria. For example, your body paragraphs in Task 2 need one cental idea, you need to use a range of complex vocabulary and grammar accurately, use a range of connectors, etc.
Read more
Aug 7, 2025
Reza Tasviri
IELTS Expert
A very common question as 7 is the band that can be critical for many. As a starting point I think it’s best to have a look at the IELTS Writing band descriptors. Try to have a quick read through and then only focus on the descriptors at band 6 and band 7. Read them closely. In each box in the table (for each criterion, e.g. Task Achievement, Coherence and Cohesion, etc) there are a few lines. Read each line in band 7 and ask yourself did I do this in my test, or did I do what the lines in band 6 say? This helps you get a better picture of where you may have lost marks and where you can gain some. You can make your understanding even better by looking at official samples for band 6 and 7.
Read more
Feb 7, 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
- 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.
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
How long does it take to prepare for IELTS?
Academic & Academic UKVI Preparation Test tips
Last answered by Linda
Answers from experts
- Most recent
- Oldest
Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
It’s different for everyone as there are a lot of factors to consider such as your current level of English, your target band score, your first language and how many hours you can study/practise.
Instead of focusing on the amount of time you have, I recommend concentrating on using your preparation time efficiently. Start by setting goals for your study sessions and make these as specific as possible. If you want to get a higher score in IELTS Writing, think about what areas of writing you want to improve and work on these. For example, do you need to use a wider range of vocabulary? Or do you need to get better at supporting your ideas in the Task 2 essay?
Read more
Aug 5, 2025
Reza Tasviri
IELTS Expert
There is no magic number as it’s different for each person. It depends on how proficient you are, which means how good your grammar knowledge is (simple and complex structures), how well you use vocabulary (simple and complicated words), how well you link your ideas, how fluent you are, etc. So, I hope you agree that it’s hard to give an exact number. If your English is up for it (that is it’s close to the level you want to achieve in the test) you may need 1-4 months of test preparation practice.
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Feb 7, 2025
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How long does it take to prepare for IELTS?
Academic & Academic UKVI Preparation Test tips
Last answered by Linda
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Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
It’s different for everyone as there are a lot of factors to consider such as your current level of English, your target band score, your first language and how many hours you can study/practise.
Instead of focusing on the amount of time you have, I recommend concentrating on using your preparation time efficiently. Start by setting goals for your study sessions and make these as specific as possible. If you want to get a higher score in IELTS Writing, think about what areas of writing you want to improve and work on these. For example, do you need to use a wider range of vocabulary? Or do you need to get better at supporting your ideas in the Task 2 essay?
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Aug 5, 2025
Reza Tasviri
IELTS Expert
There is no magic number as it’s different for each person. It depends on how proficient you are, which means how good your grammar knowledge is (simple and complex structures), how well you use vocabulary (simple and complicated words), how well you link your ideas, how fluent you are, etc. So, I hope you agree that it’s hard to give an exact number. If your English is up for it (that is it’s close to the level you want to achieve in the test) you may need 1-4 months of test preparation practice.
Read more
Feb 7, 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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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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