Which IELTS Test You Choose - Academic or General?

Which IELTS Test You Choose?: If you are planning to study, work, or move to an English-speaking country, the IELTS exam is essential. However, there are four IELTS test types: IELTS Academic, General Training, IELTS UKVI, and IELTS Life Skills. Therefore, which test to take can make a big difference for international students. Each IELTS test has a unique purpose. For example, IELTS Academic is used for admission to universities abroad and educational institutions. Whereas, IELTS General Training assesses the English language proficiency of candidates for migration purposes. Here, we have provided detailed information for each IELTS test type. Read it through carefully to choose which IELTS test you should take that aligns with your goals. 

IELTS Online Coaching

IELTS Academic

Who is it for?  IELTS Academic exam is typically used for admission to prestigious universities and for applying for professional registration in an English-speaking country. 

Why should you take the IELTS Academic Test?

• Plan to study at a college or university abroad.

• Are applying for a professional license in fields like medicine, law, teaching, or nursing.

• Need to show you can handle academic materials and understand complex texts.

Why it matters: This IELTS Academic test is accepted by over 12,000 institutions worldwide, including universities, employers, and professional bodies. 

IELTS General Training

Who is it for? IELTS General Training is often required for immigration purposes, work experience, or vocational training in popular English-speaking countries.

Why should you take the IELTS General Training Test?

• Candidates who are planning to migrate to countries such as Australia, Canada, or New Zealand.

• Candidates who want to work in an English-speaking country.

• Candidates who are applying for secondary education or non-academic training.

• Candidates who are looking for job opportunities abroad.

Why it matters: This test version assesses how well you can communicate in day-to-day settings and at work, so it’s more practical and less academic.

IELTS for UKVI

What it is: IELTS for UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration) is used for specific visa and immigration purposes. It is approved by the UK Home Office for migration purposes.

Why should you take the IELTS for UKVI?

• If you are applying for a UK visa that requires proof of English proficiency.

• A UK employer or institution asks for English language proficiency.

Important Note: The test is administered under stricter security measures to meet UK government requirements. 

IELTS Life Skills

What it is: IELTS Life Skills is mainly used for certain UK visa applications. It is available at CEFR levels A1, A2, and B1 and is.

Why should you take the IELTS Life Skills?

• If you are applying to join a family member already living in the UK.

• Need to meet a UK visa requirement that only asks for basic speaking and listening ability.

Why it’s different: The IELTS Life Skills test is shorter. The test includes a face-to-face conversation with another test taker and an examiner. 

Which IELTS Format Should You Choose?

Both IELTS Academic and General Training can be taken on paper or on a computer. You can choose any form depending on your preference and goals. Both versions are equally valid and accepted; therefore, choosing any format will not affect your overall score. 

IELTS Academic vs General Training

How to Decide Which IELTS Test Is Right for You?

Choosing the right IELTS exam can be challenging for many candidates. Here's a simple way to figure out which version is right for your situation:

Guidance of PW IELTS

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