Understanding the IELTS Exam

What Is IELTS and Why It Matters

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is the world’s most trusted English proficiency test for study, work, and migration. Recognized by over 11,000 institutions worldwide, IELTS measures your ability to communicate in English across four essential skills — Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.

IELTS is jointly owned by the University of Cambridge, the British Council, and IDP Education Australia, ensuring its global credibility and fairness. For anyone in Cameroon looking to study abroad or build an international career, mastering IELTS is a key step — and Oralearn is here to help you achieve that success.

IELTS Structure and Modules

The IELTS exam assesses your English proficiency through a series of modules designed to evaluate different language skills. All candidates take the same Listening and Speaking tests, while they choose between Academic or General Training versions for the Reading and Writing tests, depending on their goals.

Listening

4 sections | 40 questions | 30 minutes

Reading

3 sections | 40 questions | 60 minutes

Writing

2 tasks | 60 minutes

Speaking

3 parts | 11–14 minutes

The Listening section has four parts with 40 questions in total. The first two focus on everyday conversations, while the last two involve academic or training contexts. You’ll hear each recording once and answer as you listen — developing your focus, note-taking, and comprehension skills.

Includes three passages of increasing difficulty from journals, books, and magazines. It evaluates your ability to understand arguments, identify main ideas, and interpret details accurately.

Contains three sections with practical texts such as advertisements, manuals, and articles. It’s ideal for candidates preparing for work or immigration, helping you navigate everyday English materials effectively.

 

Features two tasks:

  • Task 1: Summarize and interpret data from a chart, table, or process diagram (at least 150 words).

  • Task 2: Write an essay discussing a problem, opinion, or argument (at least 250 words).

Also includes two tasks:

  • Task 1: Write a formal or informal letter explaining a situation or requesting information.

  • Task 2: Write an essay expressing and supporting your opinion on a given topic.

The Speaking test is an 11–14 minute interview with an examiner. It has three parts:
1.  Introduction and personal questions (4–5 minutes)
2.  A short talk based on a topic card (1–2 minutes)
3.  A discussion on broader, abstract issues (4–5 minutes)
You’ll be evaluated on Fluency and Coherence, Vocabulary, Grammar, and Pronunciation.

IELTS Band Scores Explained

How IELTS Is Scored

IELTS scores are reported on a 9-band scale, reflecting your English ability from Band 1 (Non-User) to Band 9 (Expert User). You’ll receive a separate score for each skill — Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking — plus an Overall Band Score, which is the average of the four.

Most universities and professional institutions in countries like the UK, Canada, and Australia require a minimum overall band score between 6.0 and 6.5 for admission.

How IELTS Tests Are Marked

IELTS uses a standardized and transparent marking system to ensure fairness for all candidates worldwide.

  • Listening & Reading: Each correct answer earns one mark — there are no half marks.

  • Writing & Speaking: These are graded by certified IELTS examiners based on clear criteria, including structure, vocabulary, grammar, and coherence.
    Both UK and US spellings are accepted, and accuracy is key to achieving higher scores.

How to Read and Use Your IELTS Scores

Your IELTS practice results on Oralearn give you a clear idea of how ready you are for the official exam. Each module score helps identify your strengths and the skills that need improvement.

Institutions often look not only at your Overall Band Score, but also at individual skill scores. For example:

  • A university program heavy in reading and writing may require higher scores in those areas.

  • A job requiring communication skills may prioritize Listening and Speaking bands.

At Oralearn, we help you interpret your results, understand your progress, and create a personalized study path to reach your target band score.

Start Preparing for IELTS with Oralearn Today

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