Millions of IELTS tests are taken around the world every year. In this article, you’ll hear from the test takers. We asked IDP IELTS Future Award entrants why they chose IELTS.
Find out why IELTS is the English test of choice for work, study and migration and how it prepares you for success wherever life takes you next.
1. Excellent reputation
People have been taking IELTS (International English Language Testing System) since the 1980s. Over the years, IELTS has established a strong, global reputation.
IELTS is trusted by educational institutions, governments, professional organisations and employers as a reliable measure of English language ability, especially for academic, work and migration purposes.
This reputation for quality was a key factor why Dr Ashique Anwar Ahmed decided to take the IELTS test for further study.
“I chose IDP IELTS for its trusted international reputation and the incredible support I received—resources like model tests and webinars to the encouraging staff at the test center. Achieving an 8.5 in the IELTS exam has been a pivotal step toward my goal of addressing health issues in humanitarian settings. This score strengthened my university applications, enhancing my eligibility for renowned programs.” - Dr. Ashique Anwar Ahmed (Bangladesh)
2. Worldwide recognition
Another reason people choose IELTS is because it's recognised around the world. It is accepted by more than 12,500 organisations globally, including educational institutions, employers, professional organisations and immigration authorities as proof of English proficiency. That’s why you’ll find IELTS test centres in more than 130 countries.
“I chose IDP IELTS for its seamless testing experience and credibility, ensuring my test results are recognized worldwide. This success empowers me to apply for international programs, collaborate with global experts, and contribute meaningfully to healthcare transformation.” - Uchechukwu Ijeh (Nigeria)
3. World-class opportunities
While people take IELTS to meet English proficiency requirements, it’s more than just a test.
In the words of Saman Akbaryan, one of the eight IDP IELTS Future Award winners:
“Succeeding in the IELTS test is a pivotal step toward building a future without boundaries. It means gaining access to world-class opportunities, forging meaningful connections, and immersing myself in Australia’s vibrant culture. Language is more than communication—it’s the key to understanding, growth, and belonging. With a strong IELTS score, I can take the next step toward permanent residency, opening doors to professional success and personal fulfillment.” -
- Saman Akbaryan (Australia)
Watch Saman's inspirational story.
4. Flexible test options
What also attracts people to IELTS is the choice of test formats, which allows you to choose the option that best suits you.
Our test centres offer IELTS on paper for those who prefer to handwrite or IELTS on computer for those who feel more comfortable completing tests on screen.
Depending on your location and the organisation you’re applying to, you may also be able to take IELTS Online from home.
When it comes to choosing a test centre, IELTS has almost 4,000 venues in more than 130 countries around the world.
It was this convenience of access that attracted Areeza Afnan Mahmud to IELTS.
“I chose IDP IELTS for its flexibility and resources. Registering for the test was simple, with multiple dates and locations available. I easily selected a center near my home and a date that suited my academic schedule.” - Areeza Afnan Mahmud (Bangladesh)
5. Accurate results
Another key factor why people choose IELTS is because they take their future seriously and want to achieve a language score that reflects their abilities.
IELTS test content is developed by an international team of experts and undergoes extensive research to ensure the test remains fair and unbiased. This gives every candidate a fair opportunity, regardless of factors like nationality, background, gender, lifestyle or location.
The IELTS Writing and Speaking tests are assessed by experienced English language experts, not AI, so you can be confident your results are an accurate reflection of your skills so you can thrive your idea job or course like Jessica Denisse Clatza Cortés from Mexico.
“I chose IDP IELTS due to its global recognition, high standards, and accuracy in assessing English proficiency. Since I am applying for a Master’s in Space Engineering at Politecnico di Milano, I needed a test that is widely accepted by top universities worldwide. IDP IELTS provides a fair and comprehensive evaluation of my language skills, ensuring I am prepared for academic and professional challenges.”
- Jessica Denisse Clatza Cortés (Mexico)
Watch Jessica's inspiring story.
6. Test day experience
What makes IELTS stand out to many people is how test day feels.
Many of the test takers we asked emphasized how well they were looked after at IDP IELTS test centres. This made a real difference to their IELTS experience.
“...the professional yet welcoming environment and staff made me feel comfortable and confident on test day, reinforcing my choice of IDP as the best option.”
-Li Jhih Jia (Taiwan)
“I have severe exam anxiety, however, at IDP, the management ensured a conducive and a friendly environment, which helped me stay calm and focused. Eventually, I aced my IELTS exam! Succeeding in the IELTS test allowed in meeting English Language eligibility requirements at top-tier universities in the UK.”
- Maryam Khawar (Pakistan)
7. Self-confidence
The confidence gained through IELTS goes far beyond test day. Many choose it because it strengthens their belief in their English skills and empowers them to step outside their comfort zone and pursue new academic or professional opportunities abroad.
“Succeeding in the IELTS test opened the door for me to apply to top international programs, including my dream master’s program in biomedical research at Imperial College London. It demonstrated my readiness to study in an English-speaking academic environment and gave me the confidence to pursue global opportunities.”
- Ilana Flores Benabib (Mexico)
“The confidence I gained in English through IELTS will help me collaborate effectively on an international scale.”
- Dr. Ashique Anwar Ahmed (Bangladesh)
Watch Dr. Ashique Anwar Ahmed's inspiring story.
8. High-quality preparation materials
Another thing people like about IELTS is the extensive range of trusted study materials available.
“IDP IELTS provides a wealth of preparation materials, such as mock tests and study guides, helping me prepare effectively and achieve my best results.” - Shu Feng Chen (Taiwan)
As one of the co-owners of the IELTS test, you can be reassured that all our IELTS test preparation materials have been developed or endorsed by IDP.
We know that everyone learns differently – that's why we offer a wide selection of preparation materials so you can get ready for IELTS your way.
Choose from practice tests, articles, videos, podcasts, masterclasses and online courses.
“IDP provided excellent preparation materials to help me achieve my target score. The IELTS by IDP app was instrumental, offering sample tests, informative articles, and detailed videos.” - Areeza Afnan Mahmud (Bangladesh)
9. Real-world communication skills
For many, IELTS is about building the communication skills they need for academic and professional settings—and to succeed in everyday life in English-speaking countries.
IELTS’s Speaking test sets it apart, giving you the opportunity to do a speaking test face-to-face with a real human instead of AI.
“Unlike other exams, IELTS uses a real human examiner to ensure a natural, real-life conversation experience. For me, succeeding in the IELTS test is more than just passing an exam. It’s a life-changing step to achieve my dream of studying abroad. It has also boosted my confidence in speaking English, thanks to the real human interaction in the speaking test.”
- Dian Karyoko (Indonesia)
IELTS helps you develop language skills that you’ll use after your test. You can show your results to prospective employers and educational institutions as proof of real-life communication skills.
“Their [IDP IELTS] free courses provided essential insights into reading, writing, and listening components, improving both my test performance and everyday English skills. This proficiency is critical for robotics research, enabling precise technical communication and effective collaboration with international teams, as well as the ability to present innovations at global conferences. This achievement represents not merely a language qualification, but a crucial stepping stone toward my international education and career aspirations in robotics research.”
- Ayman Khan (Bangladesh)
10. Future success
People choose IELTS because they know it’s an investment in their future.
IELTS helps you do more than reach your destination—it prepares you to succeed at what comes next.
As Ngan Le put it:
“IELTS made my journey from Quảng Trị to London possible. Scoring 8.5 with IDP was the first step that gave me the confidence to apply and gain admission to top business schools. Preparing for IELTS not only strengthened my English proficiency but also equipped me to thrive in a country I had never been to.”
- Ngan Le (Vietnam)
Watch Ngan's inspiring story.
IELTS is the test that makes sure you’re prepared to succeed in your new life.
Your success starts here.
IELTS test: FAQs
Find answers to frequently asked questions about the IELTS test.