IELTS requirements depend on the school, major and level, and vary by programme; check each school's website. Take a mock test to know your level, set your target by the highest requirement on your list, and practise all four skills evenly.
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IELTS requirements are not the same across schools
Within the same country, each university and major may require different overall and sub-scores. Some programmes also accept alternative certificates or offer pre-sessional English courses.
Steps to set your target
- List your schools and record the IELTS requirement (overall and per skill).
- Use the highest requirement among your dream schools as a reference target.
- Take a mock test to find your starting point.
- Break the goal down month by month.
A reasonable preparation plan
- Listening and reading: practise daily and record mistakes to learn from.
- Writing: write to prompts and have them marked and revised.
- Speaking: practise reflexes with classmates or a teacher and record yourself.
- Time management: do mock tests under real timing.
Remember that certificates usually have a validity period; plan your test so the result is still valid when you apply. See also our Bachelor's study abroad consulting.
Understand the IELTS structure
IELTS assesses four skills: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking, scored on a scale from 0 to 9. There are two main versions: Academic for academic purposes and General Training for migration or work; students heading to university usually take Academic. Results are generally valid for about two years, so schedule your test so it is still valid at the time you apply.
Set a target score
Required scores vary by university, major and country, and many universities also set minimums for each skill. Do not look only at the overall band; check the official page of each program, then aim slightly above the minimum to leave a safety margin.
A sensible study plan
- Take a practice test to find your current level and weakest skill.
- Build a weekly plan that gives time to all four skills.
- Practice Listening and Reading with real past papers; learn vocabulary by topic rather than memorizing loose lists.
- Write and speak regularly, and ask an experienced person for feedback to fix errors.
- Take a mock test under real conditions before the official exam.
Common mistakes
Many candidates only do practice tests without analyzing mistakes, neglect Writing and Speaking, or book the exam too close to the application deadline. Leave time in case you need to retake.
Want a pathway that fits your profile? Book a FREE 1:1 consultation (30 minutes, online) with a Nexus-Edu mentor.
Key takeaways
- IELTS requirements differ by school and major.
- Take a mock test, then break the target into steps.
- Mind the validity period of your certificate.
Frequently asked questions
Early enough to leave time for a retake if needed, yet ensuring the result is still valid when you submit your application.
Some schools accept TOEFL, PTE or equivalents. Check each school's list of accepted tests.
Academic is for academic purposes such as university or postgraduate study; General Training is for migration and work. Study abroad usually asks for Academic, but check each university's requirement.
Take your first attempt early, leave time to retake if needed, and make sure your result is still valid when you apply.
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