How to Use IELTS Score for Immigration Purposes?

How to Use IELTS Score for Immigration Purposes?: Nowadays, migrating to popular English-speaking countries is quite usual for many international candidates. The availability of a wide range of higher courses, job opportunities, migration, and luxurious lifestyles are among the popular factors that attract international applicants to apply to different foreign countries. Meanwhile, when you are planning to build a strong career or seek higher education in popular nations, demonstrating English Language Proficiency (ELP) is essential. According to the statistics, IELTS has been standing as the most preferred language proficiency test among international candidates. 

Many popular countries in the world, including Canada, Australia, Ireland, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and others, accept IELTS scores for immigration purposes. Therefore, understanding how to use your IELTS score for immigration purposes is essential to align your application with the specific requirements of the country. The process of using IELTS scores for immigration purposes can be complex and vary depending on the visa types and professional requirements. Here, we will offer a detailed description of how to use IELTS band score for immigration purposes for different countries. 

Why Choose IELTS? Top Most Resons to Choose IELTS to Study Abroad

How to Use IELTS Score for Immigration Purposes?

To use your IELTS score for immigration purposes, first check the language requirements of the country. The majority of countries accept the IELTS General Training test for immigration purposes. However, the United Kingdom requires IELTS for UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration). The minimum IELTS requirement may vary for different countries. Candidates must include their IELTS Test Report Form (TRF) in their visa or immigration application.   

Understanding IELTS Test Types

There are two main IELTS test types: Academic and General Training. Generally, the majority of countries require IELTS General Training for individuals migrating for work, training programs, or secondary education.  

For candidates who are seeking higher education opportunities in prestigious universities abroad must apply for the IELTS Academic to demonstrate their ELP for specific universities and courses. 

Explore IELTS Online Courses

Migrating for Work and Settlement

Candidates who want to relocate and find employment opportunities in an English-speaking country must take the IELTS General Training test to apply for the position. The General Training test evaluates the communication skills of candidates in social and workplace contexts, which are essential for daily interactions and professional tasks.  

Studying Abroad or Gaining Professional Accreditation

Candidates who are planning to study in high-ranking universities or are applying for professional registration, such as nurses, teachers, and accountants, are required to appear for the IELTS Academic test. This test assesses the ability of candidates to understand complex academic vocabulary and the ability to articulate ideas at a high level.   

 IELTS Life Skills test 

Steps on How to Use IELTS Score for Immigration Purposes  

1. Determine the Immigration Program

• Decide which country and what type of visa you are applying for.

• Popular destinations include:

• Canada (Express Entry, PNP)

• Australia (Skilled Migration)

• UK (Skilled Worker Visa)

• New Zealand, USA (limited IELTS-based programs)

2. Check the Language Requirement

• Visit the official immigration website to check:

• Minimum IELTS band score required

• Specific IELTS test type accepted: IELTS General Training or Academic

3. Take the IELTS Test

• Register for the correct test type.

• Prepare thoroughly to meet or exceed the required score.

4. Get Your Test Report Form (TRF)

• You will receive an official Test Report Form (TRF) with your score.

• Most immigration systems require scores to be less than 2 years old.

5. Submit IELTS Score with Immigration Application

• During the immigration application process:

• Upload or submit your IELTS TRF number

• Some systems (like Canada’s Express Entry) ask you to enter your score online

• Others may require you to mail or upload a copy of the TRF

6. Use IELTS to Claim Points

• In points-based systems (Canada, Australia):

• Higher IELTS scores = More points under language proficiency

• These points improve your ranking or eligibility

7. Keep Track of Validity

• IELTS scores are valid for 2 years

Also Read: 

• What is IELTS Exam?
• Documents Required for IELTS Registration
• IELTS Exam Registration steps

IELTS Country-Specific Immigration Requirements

Australia

In Australia, the IELTS test type and score depend on your migration purpose:

• For general migration, the General Training test is sufficient.

• For professional roles, specific assessment bodies like ANMAC, AITSL, or CPA Australia often require the Academic test.

Candidates must appear for a skill assessment to prove their qualifications as per the Australian standards, depending on the type of occupation. 

United Kingdom (UK)

The candidates applying for immigration to the UK must take the IELTS for UKVI test approved by the UK Home Office.

There are three types:

• Academic for UKVI: For higher education and professional registration.

• General Training for UKVI: For work, migration, or vocational training.

• Life Skills for UKVI: For proving basic listening and speaking skills at CEFR levels A1, A2, or B1.

UKVI only accepts scores from approved testing centers that meet specific security protocols.

IELTS Life Skills (UKVI)

• A1 Level: Required for certain family visas; only assesses Listening and Speaking.

• A2 Level: Typically for visa extensions.

• B1 Level: Needed for citizenship and settlement.

Instead of band scores, Life Skills tests are pass/fail based.

Understanding CEFR and Band Score Requirements

Your required IELTS score depends on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) level associated with your visa type:

Make sure to check the exact requirements on the official immigration websites of the country you are applying to.

Guidance of PW IELTS

Physics Wallah offers multiple online IELTS courses for all students. Follow the IELTS pages to better prepare for the exam.