The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is one of the world’s most popular English language tests for global migration and higher education.
The test covers four language skills – listening, reading, writing and speaking. Register to take your IELTS test here. The listening, reading and writing sections of the IELTS test are completed all on the same day (no breaks), however the speaking section can be completed up to a week before or after the other tests. Total test time: 2 hours, 45 mins.
There are two different tests – but which one will you need to complete to work in the UK as an international healthcare worker?
IELTS General Training. This test is required for those who want to migrate to the UK, Australia, Canada and New Zealand and includes the everyday English language skills that are needed in workplaces and social environments. So, if you’re looking to move to the UK and work for a UK-based healthcare provider, such as the NHS, the IELTS General Training is the test that is recommended for you. This test is also for people applying to study below degree level, including English-speaking school or college. You can see the IELTS General Training test format here.
IELTS Academic. This test measures if you’re ready to being studying in English and is suitable for people who want to study in an English-speaking environment (e.g. university / higher education).
IELTS band scale. Once you’ve completed the IELTS, you’ll be given a score from 1 to 9 for each part of the test – listening, reading, writing and speaking. The average produces your overall band score. You can score whole (e.g. 5.0, 6.0) or half (5.5, 6.5) bands in each part of the test. The skill level ranges from Band 0 – did not attempt the test, to Band 9 – expert user. To register as a doctor with the General Medical Council (GMC), you must complete and pass the IELTS Academic, achieving a score of at least:
• 7.0within the listening and reading sections
• 7.0within the writing and speaking sections
This must equate to an overall score of 7.5 (out of a possible 9).
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