IELTS Life Skills

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The Life Skills test is available at three different levels of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). You can choose between Life Skills A1, A2 and B1 where you will be assessed for you English speaking and listening skills.

You will sit the test with an IELTS examiner and a second test taker. The examiner will assess your speaking and listening skills during the test session. The session can last between 16 and 22 minutes.

An IELTS examiner will assess your English speaking and listening skills across a set of criteria. The criteria include: Obtaining information Conveying information Speaking to communicate Engaging in discussion.

There are no band scores attached to an IELTS Life Skills Test. You will get either of the following results when you take an IELTS Life Skills test:

Pass
Fail.

Ask IELTS

How do I improve my fluency? Should I ever try to use a different accent to my own?

To improve your fluency, try to practice as much as you can. The more words you know, the less you have to search for words. Also, use connecting words to help you keep going. The only problem with accents is if it stops people from understanding you. Just try to make the sounds of English so you can be understood.

Do I have to speak with a particular accent in my IELTS Speaking test?

Everyone speaks with an accent and you are not expected to change your accent for the IELTS test. Instead, focus on speaking clearly and at a natural pace so that the examiner can understand you. Practising your English every day and listening to different native speaker accents will help you to more clearly pronounce difficult words.

I am a native speaker. Why do I need to take the IELTS test?

IELTS may be a requirement for entering your desired course in an educational institution. It is also used in many countries as a part of their migration assessment. If you are not sure as to why you might need to sit the IELTS test or about the score you need, contact the organisation you are applying to.

They will be able to provide further information, including whether native speakers need to complete the IELTS test. Even if English is your primary language, you will still need to prepare for the test.

If I use more idioms in my Speaking test, will it increase my Speaking score?

Using idioms in the IELTS Speaking test can be helpful, but be careful because idioms are difficult to use and do not always sound natural. Make sure you are sure how to use them correctly.

Is the Speaking test recorded? Is it useful to record yourself while practising Speaking?

Yes, it is. The recording can be used to apply for a remark. It is also used to monitor the examiners to make sure they are doing their job well. It can be a good idea to record yourself and share it with someone you know. They may be able to notice something about your speaking that you do not.

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