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IELTS Exam Pattern 2024: Test Format, Sections Wise Paper Pattern, Question Types

IELTS Exam Pattern 2024: Test Format, Sections Wise Paper Pattern, Question Types

Edited By Porishmita Paul | Updated on Jul 15, 2024 03:50 PM IST | #IELTS

IELTS exam pattern 2024 consists of four major sections, Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The IELTS Listening section consists of 40 questions divided into four sections. The reading section of IELTS test also includes 3 lengthy reading comprehension passages totaling 40 questions. In the IELTS 2024 writing section, there are 2 short essay questions, each of 150-200 words. Meanwhile, the IELTS exam speaking section includes 3 questions in a one-on-one conversation format. There is no optional section in the IELTS pattern 2024.

As per the IELTS exam duration 2024, the total test is to be attempted within 2 hours and 45 minutes. Candidates take the first three parts of IELTS exam (Listening, Reading, and Writing) on the same day and the Speaking test either on the same day or seven days before or after the test day. There are two different IELTS 2024 modules: IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training. The IELTS 2024 test pattern for Speaking and Listening tests are the same for both the modules but it is different for Reading and Writing tests.

The IELTS 2024 exam has two formats namely IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training Test. The IELTS Academic is designed for test-takers who want to pursue higher studies in an English-speaking country. Whereas, the IELTS General Training Test is for migrants and professionals who need to demonstrate their English language proficiency for work purposes.

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The IELTS exam format 2024 is similar for both two formats namely IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training Test. The IDP IELTS test is accepted worldwide by over 12,000 organisations and 140 countries. Therefore, candidates applying for IELTS exam for higher studies in a major English-speaking country must check the detailed IELTS exam pattern 2024 before registering for the exam.

IELTS 2024 Writing Task 1 & 2 - Study Materials
Aspirants who are appearing for IELTS exam can download this eBook which have complete study material for academic writing task 1 (Data Interpretation) and academic writing task 2 (Essays) sections.
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The total IELTS test duration in India is 2 hours 45 minutes. While the Listening and Speaking modules are common in both versions of the IELTS 2024 exam pattern, the IELTS Reading and Writing modules of IETLS 2024 differ in the two versions. Read the complete article to know more about IELTS exam pattern 2024, syllabus, scores, and many more.

What is the format of the IELTS exam?

The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) exam consists of four main sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The total number of questions in IELTS 2024 exam, section-wise duration, and more can be checked below.

IELTS Test Pattern 2024

IELTS Test Component

Duration

Total Questions

Listening

30 minutes

40 (4 sections for 4 recorded monologue speeches and conversations)

Reading

60 minutes

40 (3 long reading comprehension passages)

Writing

60 minutes

2 (short essays of 150-200 words each)

Speaking

11-14 minutes

3 (3 part one-on-one conversation)

IELTS Exam Pattern 2024

The IELTS 2024 exam pattern is released by the IDP IELTS on its official website. Understanding the IELTS exam pattern and syllabus is a significant part of exam preparation as IELTS is recognised as the most popular English language proficiency test all over the world. Therefore, candidates must ensure a deep understanding of the IELTS pattern 2024 to maximise their chances of selection into popular institutions.

Detailed information on the IELTS test format 2024 is given below:

  • Listening: The listening section of the IELTS exam pattern consists of 40 questions. This component is divided into 4 major sections for 4 recorded monologue speeches and conversations. The duration of the IELTS listening test is 30 minutes.

  • Reading: The reading section of the IELTS 2024 exam pattern consists of 40 questions. There will be 3 long reading comprehension passages with tests of descriptive, factual, and analytical concepts in tasks. This section lasts for 60 minutes.

  • Writing: The writing section of the IELTS 2024 test format consists of 2 short essays of 150-200 words each. Questions will be in the form of Graphs, charts, or diagrams. Candidates have to write essays by interpreting and describing the data.

  • Speaking: This section comprises 3-part one-on-one conversations: 1 conversation on a familiar topic, a few short questions to answer, and 1 conversation on a structured topic.

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IELTS Listening Exam Pattern

The IELTS listening section is designed to assess the listening skills of the candidates. It includes assessment of their understanding of main ideas and specific factual information, recognition of the opinions, attitudes, and purpose of the speaker, and following the development of an argument.

The listening section in the IELTS exam pattern comprises 4 types of questions:

  • Matching

  • Multiple-choice questions

  • Sentence completion

  • Short answer questions.

The exam pattern consists of 4 recordings and the candidates have to answer a series of questions in writing after listening to four recordings of fluent English speakers.

IELTS 2024 Listening Test

Section 1

A discussion between two people takes place in a typical social setting.

Section 2

A monologue that takes place in a typical social setting, like a speech about a neighbourhood facility.

Section 3

A discussion between up to four people takes place in an educational or training setting, such as when a student and a university tutor are discussing an assignment.

Section 4

A monologue about a subject in school, like a lecture at a university.

Check here: IELTS Listening Practice Test

IELTS Reading Pattern 2024

The IELTS reading section assesses a wide range of student’s reading skills in an academic context.

The IELTS Reading pattern is meant to evaluate a variety of reading abilities, including the ability to:

  1. Read a piece to determine its overall meaning.

  2. For the essential points, read on.

  3. Recognise implications and inferences.

  4. Recognise the viewpoints, aims, and objectives of a writer.

  5. Follow an argument's progression.

The IELTS academic format 2024 for reading has three lengthy pieces, ranging from factual and descriptive to discursive and analytical. There is no set IELTS pattern for the type of passages given. They have been chosen for a non-specialist audience yet are suitable for students starting university courses or looking to register for a profession.

The reading section of IELTS exam format 2024 comprises 40 questions and the time allotted for the same is 60 minutes. Therefore, candidates need to read quickly, effectively, and with time management which comes with knowing the IELTS exam pattern as much as with practice.

Practice here:

IELTS Test Pattern 2024 for Writing

How many parts are there in IELTS writing? The IELTS writing test consists of two tasks. The exam is designed to assess the English skills of individuals entering undergraduate or postgraduate studies, or those seeking professional registration. According to the IELTS test pattern 2024, IELTS writing is made to evaluate a variety of writing abilities, including the ability to:

  1. Create a suitable response.

  2. Compile ideas.

  3. Make accurate use of a variety of words and language.

IELTS Writing Format

IELTS Writing Task 1

  • Candidates will be presented with a graph, table, chart, or diagram and are asked to describe, summarise, or explain the information in their own words

  • Candidates are asked to describe and explain data, explain the stages of a process, how something works, or describe an object or event

IELTS Writing Task 2

  • Candidates will be asked to write an essay in response to a point of view, argument, or problem.

  • Responses to both tasks must be written in a formal style.


Practice here:

IELTS Speaking Pattern 2024

The IELTS 2024 test pattern for the speaking section is divided into three parts. Below are the details of the types of tasks given in the IELTS speaking.

IELTS Speaking 2024 Pattern

Part 1

The examiner will introduce themselves and ask about the candidate's home, family, job, studies, and interests. This part should assist in unwinding and speaking naturally

Part 2

The examiner will hand a task card with instructions on how to talk about a certain subject and suggested talking points. There will be a minute to get ready and take notes. After that, candidates must speak for 1-2 minutes on the subject. After that, candidates will be asked one or two questions on the same subject by the examiner.


Part 3

More questions about the subject of Part 2 will be posed by the examiner. As mentioned in the IELTS test pattern 2024, these inquiries are meant to provide a chance to talk about more conceptual concerns and concepts.

IELTS General Pattern 2024

The IELTS General Training test also assesses the English language skills of candidates. Students who want to migrate to an English-speaking country for work or study purposes must take the IELTS General Training test.

As per the IELTS exam pattern, the General Training test consists of four parts: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Each part of the test is 30 minutes long, except for Writing, which is 60 minutes long.

IELTS Syllabus 2024

What is the syllabus for IELTS? There is no exact answer to the IELTS syllabus. The IELTS exam format is subject-specific and topics for individual sections are chosen randomly from popular resources. The IELTS syllabus consists of four parts- Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. For the latest and most official information on the IELTS syllabus 2024, you can visit the website.

IELTS Preparation Tips 2024

Adapting a proper study plan following the IELTS test format 2024 is the key to success in IELTS. A consistent study strategy is an essential requirement for IELTS 2024 preparation. However, incorporating individualised IELTS preparation tips and tricks can help you get a promising result. Here are a few important IELTS exam tips and tricks to maximise your preparation.

  • Browse the IDP IELTS official website to check for IELTS 2024 format.

  • Analyse the IELTS exam pattern and syllabus 2024 carefully before forming your study routine.

  • Set a realistic IELTS score goal according to your English language proficiency and skills in each section.

  • Prepare a separate study plan for each IELTS section and proceed accordingly.

  • Check out different official and external websites and online platforms to strengthen your preparation.

  • Select effective and best IELTS preparation books and study materials to master all the sections.

  • Listen to the questions asked carefully, and answer directly for the speaking part.

  • Add more relatable information to the answers, and ensure the answers remain relevant.

  • Analysis of the assigned tasks and quickly prepare the answers mentally.

  • Always answer the questions precisely and avoid grammatical mistakes.

  • Proofread all the answers before submission.

Candidates can also look for various IELTS sample papers and IELTS best books for their IELTS preparation.

Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)

1. Is 7 easy to get IELTS?

Yes, a 7-band score is easy to get in IELTS test for candidates who have a strong command of the English language. However, getting a 7-band in IELTS depends on the level of preparation of the students. With focused preparation, consistent practice, and effective study strategies candidates can easily score a 7-band in the IELTS exam.

2. What is the syllabus in IELTS?

The IELTS syllabus is composed of 4 components, namely, Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. There are 40 questions each in the IELTS reading and listening section. The IELTS writing section comprises 2 tasks, wherein candidates are required to write at least 150 words for Task 1 and at least 250 words for Task 2. The IELTS speaking section includes three parts.

3. What are the 4 stages of IELTS exam?

The four stages of IELTS exam are, Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The listening and reading sections of the IELTS test format have 40 questions. Whereas, the writing and speaking sections have 2 and 3 sections respectively. The Speaking and Listening tests are the same in both modules academic and general training, but the Reading and Writing tests are different.

4. Is there any changes in the IELTS pattern in 2024?

No, there are no changes in the IELTS test pattern in 2024. Candidates preparing for the exam can check the IELTS format 2024 on the official website of IDP IELTS.

5. What is IELTS exam pattern?

IELTS exam pattern consists of 4 sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The total exam duration is 2 hours 45 minutes. The IELTS exam has two formats namely IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training Test. Candidates who are applying for undergraduate or postgraduate courses abroad can apply for IELTS academic.

6. What is the pattern of reading test in IELTS?

The pattern of the reading test in IELTS comprises three lengthy pieces, ranging from factual and descriptive to discursive and analytical. The reading section of IELTS test pattern comprises 40 questions and the time allotted for the same is 60 minutes.

7. Is IELTS 6.5 pass or fail?

There is no pass or fail in IELTS test. A 6.5 band score is considered to be a satisfactory achievement for academic admissions. Candidates scoring a 6.5 band IELTS score can easily get admission to different top universities all over the world. IELTS is scored on a band of 1 to 9, where 1 is the lowest and 9 is the highest. Each band reflects a different level of understanding of the English language of users.

8. How to get 8.5 marks in IELTS?

Scoring an 8.5 band score in IELTS is quite difficult. Therefore, preparation to get an 8.5 band score requires a strict study plan and some specially designed preparation strategies. Follow the below-mentioned tips and tricks to accelerate your IELTS preparation. 

  • Master the IELTS exam pattern.

  • Prepare a personalised study plan and stick to it.

  • Solve sample papers and practice tests to track your strengths and weaknesses. 

  • Follow multiple IELTS preparation books and materials.

  • Learn time management. 

9. Is the IELTS exam difficult?

IELTS exam can be challenging for international students with non-English speaking backgrounds. However, over the years, IELTS exam structure has not become more difficult for overseas students. For beginners, IELTS exam can be quite difficult due to a lack of knowledge and appropriate guidance. 

10. Is IELTS pattern changing in 2024?

No, IELTS exam format has not changed in 2024. The exam consists of 4 test sections. The total duration will remain the same as of the previous year which is 2 hours and 45 minutes. 

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Questions related to IELTS

Have a question related to IELTS ?

If you have completed a master's degree in the UK, you might still need to take the IELTS test to qualify for a Permanent Residency (PR) or Work Visa in Australia. While your degree from an English-speaking country like the UK may demonstrate your proficiency in English, Australian immigration authorities typically require a standardized English language test score, such as IELTS, to assess your language skills formally.

For better guidance, Invicta Institute can provide you with detailed information and assistance regarding the specific English language requirements for Australian PR or Work Visa applications. Invicta's experienced counselors can help you navigate the process and determine if your UK degree suffices or if you need to take the IELTS test.


Since you're currently in the first year of your Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com), planning ahead for your MBA abroad is a wise decision. The ideal time to take your IELTS exam is during your third year of B.Com. This timing ensures that your IELTS score, which is valid for two years, will still be valid when you apply for MBA programs. I recommend reaching out to a reputable abroad education advisor, as they can assist you throughout the entire process from start to finish. One such company is Invicta Career Consultancy, which offers specialized training, guidance, and support for studying abroad. You can visit their website at icclearning.com to learn more and make an informed decision. Best of luck!

Hello,

It is very highly unlikely to obtain a legitimate IELTS certificate without taking the exam. Any claims suggesting otherwise are likely scams. It is essential to take the exam through authorized testing centers to ensure the validity and credibility of the certificate.

Hope this helps you ,

Thank you

The IELTS General is generally considered easier than the IELTS Academic because the General test focuses on practical, everyday English skills, such as social and workplace communication, while the Academic test assesses a candidate's readiness for academic study with more complex reading and writing tasks. For better guidance, Invicta Institute can help you determine which test suits your goals and provide tailored coaching to maximize your performance on either version of the IELTS.

Hello aspirant,

Opinions on the E-GMAT course vary. Some find it beneficial for improving GMAT skills, especially in verbal sections, while others may prefer different resources. It's essential to explore reviews, consider your learning style, and maybe try a trial or sample to see if it aligns with your preferences before making a decision.

So it all depends on your personal opinion.

Thank you

Hope this information helps you.

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