IELTS Eligibility 2023 : Qualification, Minimum Age Limit, & Score Required

IELTS

Rahul Singha

Rahul SinghaStudy Abroad Expert

Updated on Aug 26, 2023 20:10 IST

IELTS Eligibility 2023: The only IELTS exam eligibility criteria prescribed by IDP require candidates to be at least 16 years of age to be eligible to register for the IELTS examThe full form of IELTS is the International English Language Testing System and is conducted by IDP in India. The IELTS is a popular language proficiency test that is undertaken by candidates who are looking to study, work or migrate to English-speaking countries and aim to gain global exposure. The IELTS exam pattern assesses test takers on the four skills of the English language Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking

IELTS Eligibility 2023

IELTS eligibility in India: In this section, we are going to be talking about the IELTS exam 2023 eligibility requirements. There are no strict qualifications for IELTS as prescribed by IDP - the conducting body of the IELTS exam in India. However, the candidates looking to take the IELTS exam in India are required to be at least 16 years of age. Perhaps this can be mentioned as the only IELTS exam eligibility in India which requires candidates to be aged 16 or above to take this examination, irrespective of their gender, nationality, or background. There is no maximum age limit fixed by the conducting body.

IELTS 2023 Eligibility: Age Criteria 

As such, there is no age limit set by the IDP - the conducting body of the IELTS exam. However, candidates looking to take the test are required to be at least 16 years of age to go ahead with IELTS registration. There is no IELTS exam maximum age limit. 

IELTS 2023 Eligibility: Education Qualification for IELTS 

There is no education qualification for the IELTS exam as notified by IDP - the conducting body of the IELTS exam.  Anyone who wishes to pursue higher studies abroad or wants to work/ migrate abroad can attempt the IELTS IDP exam (both Academic and General Training). However, candidates should always refer to the eligibility guidelines set by the educational institution or organization to which they are applying to understand admission requirements.

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What is the minimum age for giving IELTS Exam?

IELTS exam 2023 Eligibility: The minimum age for taking the IELTS exam is 16 years. Anyone over the age of 16 can take the IELTS Test irrespective of nationality or background. Exceptions can be made where the school requires an IELTS Score for admission. There is no age limit or IELTS eligibility criteria set by the IDP, the body that conducts this exam, but it is preferred that the aspirant should have crossed 16 years of age.

What is the minimum IELTS Score required by Top Universities?

IELTS exam 2023 eligibility for Top Universities: Every university has a different set of requirements and its own set of guidelines as part of its admission process. Also, all the universities have set different IELTS Eligibility Criteria that candidates need to fulfil to get admitted. In addition to this, candidates should also match the other eligibility requirements set by the university or the educational institute where they are planning to enrol. Know about IELTS Cut Off across popular study abroad destinations. 

IELTS Eligibility 2023 for Top Universities

University

IELTS exam eligibility 2023

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Shiksha Grade A++

7.0 - 7.5+

Cambridge University

Shiksha Grade A++

7.5+

Oxford University

Shiksha Grade A++

7.0 - 7.5+

Harvard University

Shiksha Grade A++

6.5 - 7.5+

Stanford University

Shiksha Grade A++

7.0+

Imperial College London

Shiksha Grade A++

6.5 - 7.0+

ETH Zurich

Shiksha Grade A++

7.0+

National University of Singapore (NUS)

Shiksha Grade A++

6.0 - 8.0+

University College London (UCL)

Shiksha Grade A++

6.5 - 7.5+

University of California, Berkeley Campus

Shiksha Grade A++

6.5 - 7.0+
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What is the 12th percentage required for taking IELTS?

IELTS 2023 Eligibility: IELTS IDP has not set any 12th score requirements for taking IELTS. You can take the IELTS irrespective of the marks you scored in the 12th standard. So, one can attempt the IELTS exam without worrying about their class 12th score.

IELTS Eligible Countries

IELTS Eligibility by Country: In this section, we are going to be discussing IELTS eligibility across popular study-abroad destinations. 

IELTS Eligibility - USA

Students with an average minimum IELTS band score between 6.0 to 6.5 are eligible to apply to most universities in the US. However, students who have the desire to enter some of the world’s top universities need to aim for a band score that is slightly above average.

IELTS Eligibility - Canada

Usually, a candidate looking to pursue an undergraduate course in Canada requires an overall 6.0 band in IELTS with no less than 5.5 in any section. Similarly, a candidate going for a postgraduate degree in Canada needs to have an IELTS score of 6.5 bands overall with not less than 6.0 in any section.

Program of Study IELTS exam eligibility 2023
Student Direct Stream (SDS) Overall: Minimum of 6.0
Each Band: No less than 6.0
Postgraduate Courses in Canada
[PG Diploma/Masters]
Overall: Minimum of 6.5 IELTS
Each Band: No less than 5.5 or 6.0 depending on the institution
Undergraduate Courses in Canada
[Bachelor’s, Diploma, or Short-term]
Overall: Minimum 6 IELTS
Each Band: No less than 5.5

IELTS Eligibility - UK

Candidates looking to study in the UK can check out the IELTS requirements in the country below. 

Program of Study IELTS exam eligibility 2023
Master's Diploma In the UK, a master's degree may take 12–24 months to complete. To be admitted to a master's programme, you must earn a bachelor's degree. A master's course requires a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 or above. However, a score of 6.5 or more is required for admission to top universities.
Pre-Masters This course is primarily intended for people who want to advance their communication and language abilities before enrolling in a master's programme. You must have an IELTS band score of 5.0 or above to be admitted to pre-master programmes.
Undergraduate Degree You need an IELTS score of 6.5 or above to be admitted to an undergraduate programme. However, you must have an IELTS band score of 7.0 or higher if you want to enrol in a top UK university.

IELTS Eligibility - Australia

Generally, to study in Australia, candidates are required to score a minimum IELTS Band of 6.5 overall with no band less than 6.0 for their postgraduate degree. When you apply for your undergraduate options, you need to score a minimum IELTS Band of 6.0 overall in the IELTS exam.

Program of Study IELTS exam eligibility 2023
Postgraduate Degree 6.5 with no band less than 6.0
Undergraduate Degree 6.0+

What are the different formats of the IELTS Exam?

IELTS 2023 exam eligibility: The IELTS Exam 2023 is conducted in two formats IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training Test. The IELTS Academic is given by those who wish to pursue higher studies in a foreign country, whereas the IELTS General Training Test is for those who want to go to major English-speaking countries to pursue secondary education or gain work experience. Apart from this, it is also used for migration to major economies of the world like the UK, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia. Moreover, a majority of the renowned educational institutes across the world require an IELTS total score of 7.0 band with section scores of 6.5 band as IELTS exam eligibility. Learn about the differences between the IELTS Academic and General Training Exam in this webinar conducted by our in-house IELTS expert:

IELTS Test Pattern 2023

IELTS 2023 exam eligibility: The IELTS Syllabus includes different sections, Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The complete test duration is 2 hours and 45 minutes.

Sections with Duration IELTS Academic Test Description Questions / Duration

 IELTS Listening Section

It encompasses four recorded monologues and conversations

Number of Questions: 40

Total Duration: 30 minutes

IELTS Reading Section

Three long reading passages with tasks

Texts range from descriptive and factual to discursive, and analytical including non-verbal material like diagrams, graphs, and illustrations texts are authentic (taken from books, journals, and newspapers)

Number of Questions: 40

Total Duration: 60 minutes

IELTS Writing Section

In Writing Task 1 a candidate has to write at least 150 words where he/she must summarize, describe or explain a table, graph, chart, or diagram. In Writing Task 2, a candidate has to write a short essay of at least 250 words

Number of Questions: 2 tasks

Total Duration: 60 minutes

IELTS Speaking Section

A face-to-face interview includes an introduction of the candidate, a cue card, and a detailed discussion

Number of Questions: 3 tasks

Total Duration: 11-14 minutes

  • Listening: The total length of this section is 30 minutes and candidates have to answer different types of 40 questions.
  • Reading: The total time for this section is 30 minutes and it comprises almost 40 questions.
  • Writing: This section is of 60 minutes and includes two questions where candidates have to write a short essay of at least 250 words. Apart from this, candidates are given a table, diagram, or data which they have to explain in their own words.
  • Speaking: The overall length of this section varies from 11 to 14 minutes and candidates also go through a face-to-face interview. Through this section, it is monitored whether the candidates can communicate effectively in the country where they have applied.

Now, as you are aware of the IELTS test format it is time to prepare for the IELTS. We have given section-wise tips, study material and a preparation plan to prepare for the IELTS at home. One can go for self-study or IELTS coaching classes for IELTS preparation. Those who are already fluent in English can prepare for the exam on their own.

Related read:

Still, need more clarity? Read IELTS frequently asked questions to understand everything about the IELTS and IELTS Eligibility.

Listening Tips for IELTS 2023 Reading Tips for IELTS 2023
Writing Tips for IELTS 2023 Speaking Tips for IELTS 2023

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IELTS Eligibility 2023 FAQs

Are students required to show 12th percentage as an eligible criterion for the IELTS exam?

No, students are not required to show their 12th percentage or any academic grades as an eligibility criterion for the IELTS exam. The IELTS is primarily a language proficiency test and focuses on assessing an individual's English language skills. It does not require or consider academic grades or educational qualifications as prerequisites for taking the exam. Whether a student has completed their 12th grade or holds any specific academic degree does not impact their eligibility to register and take the IELTS exam. The exam is open to individuals of all educational backgrounds who wish to demonstrate their English language proficiency.

How many attempts are possible in the IELTS exam for students looking to study abroad?

Students looking to study abroad can take the IELTS exam as many times as they wish. There is no specific limit on the number of attempts for the IELTS. However, it is important to note that frequent retesting without adequate preparation may not yield the desired results. Each attempt requires payment of the exam fee, and test dates are subject to availability. It is advisable for students to focus on improving their English language skills before attempting the exam again, rather than relying solely on multiple attempts. Preparation, practice, and understanding of the test format are key to achieving the desired scores for studying abroad.

Is there any eligibility for the IELTS exam?

There is no specific eligibility criterion for taking the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) exam. It is open to individuals of all ages and educational backgrounds who wish to demonstrate their English language proficiency. Whether you are a student, a professional, or someone seeking immigration or work opportunities in English-speaking countries, you are eligible to take the IELTS. The exam is designed to assess your English language skills, including listening, reading, writing, and speaking. There are no prerequisites such as educational qualifications, age restrictions, or prior language learning experience. The IELTS is accessible to anyone who wants to showcase their English language proficiency.

Is there any age requirement for the IELTS exam?

No, there is no age requirement for the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) exam. Individuals of all ages are eligible to take the IELTS, from teenagers to adults. Whether you are a student, a working professional, or a retiree, you can register for the IELTS and demonstrate your English language proficiency. The IELTS is designed to assess your English skills in listening, reading, writing, and speaking, regardless of your age. The exam is accessible to anyone who wants to showcase their English language abilities, irrespective of their age or stage in life.

What is educational eligibility criteria for IELTS?

The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) does not have any specific educational eligibility criteria. It is open to individuals of all educational backgrounds who wish to demonstrate their English language proficiency. Whether you have completed high school, hold a bachelor's degree, or have any other level of education, you are eligible to take the IELTS exam. The focus of the IELTS is on assessing your English language skills in listening, reading, writing, and speaking, rather than evaluating your educational qualifications. The exam is designed to be accessible to individuals from various educational backgrounds, providing an opportunity for anyone to showcase their English language proficiency.

Can a student who has recently passed his Class 10 apply for the IELTS exam?

Yes, a 10th-pass student can certainly apply for the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) exam. There are no specific educational eligibility requirements for the IELTS, and individuals of all educational backgrounds are eligible to take the exam. Whether you have completed your 10th grade, or high school, or hold any other level of education, you can register for the IELTS and demonstrate your English language proficiency. The exam focuses on assessing your English language skills in listening, reading, writing, and speaking, rather than evaluating your educational qualifications. So, 10th-pass student is welcome to take the IELTS and showcase their English language abilities.

What are the minimum eligibility criteria for IELTS exam?

The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) does not have a minimum eligibility criterion in terms of age or educational qualifications. It is open to individuals of all ages and educational backgrounds who wish to demonstrate their English language proficiency. Whether you are a student, a professional, or someone seeking immigration or work opportunities in English-speaking countries, you can take the IELTS. The exam assesses your English language skills in listening, reading, writing, and speaking, and there are no specific prerequisites or minimum requirements to meet before registering for the exam. Any individual can choose to take the IELTS based on their personal goals and needs

Which section of the IELTS exam should candidates attempt first?

In the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) exam, candidates have the flexibility to choose the order in which they attempt the sections. The IELTS exam consists of four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The Speaking section is usually conducted separately from the other three sections and can be scheduled on a different day.

For the Listening, Reading, and Writing sections, candidates can decide on the order based on their personal preference and comfort. Some candidates prefer to start with the section they feel most confident in, while others may choose to begin with the section they find most challenging, allowing them to allocate more time and focus on it.

It is important to note that the order of attempting sections does not impact the scoring or evaluation process. Candidates should choose the order that suits them best and allows them to perform their best throughout the exam.

Is there any minimum passing score needed for IELTS exam?

The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) does not have a specific passing score. Instead of pass/fail results, IELTS provides a band score ranging from 0 to 9 for each section (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking) as well as an overall band score. The band scores represent different levels of English language proficiency, ranging from non-user (band score 1) to expert (band score 9).

The required band score for various purposes, such as immigration, study, or work, can vary depending on the institution, organization, or visa requirements. It is important to research the specific band score requirements of your intended purpose and check with the institution or organization you are applying to in order to determine the minimum band score needed for your specific situation.

Can students take the IELTS exam in a single day?

Yes, students can take the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) exam in a single day. The exam is typically conducted over the course of a few hours, allowing candidates to complete all the sections on the same day. The Listening, Reading, and Writing sections are usually administered back-to-back, with a short break in between. The Speaking section, which is a one-on-one interview, may be scheduled on the same day or on a different day, depending on the arrangements made by the test center. It is important to check the specific schedule and instructions provided by the test center where you plan to take the IELTS exam.

Are IELTS test takers allowed to carry watches to the test center?

The policies regarding the use of watches during the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) exam may vary depending on the test center. Generally, candidates are not allowed to wear wristwatches during the exam. This is done to ensure fairness and prevent any potential cheating or distractions. However, it is important to note that each test center may have its own specific rules and regulations, so it is recommended to check the guidelines provided by the test center where you plan to take the IELTS exam. If you require timekeeping during the exam, the test center will usually have clocks visible to all candidates in the testing room.

Comments

(1287)

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Ibrahim Edwin

3 months ago

Good day sir. Please you need to check the phones number above and correct that, coz someone pick the call and said he has no idea of the whole thing"a; IELTS"a;

Reply to Ibrahim Edwin

M

Mustafijur molla

4 months ago

Hello shiksha I just finish my B A in political science. I want to study abroad now? Can I complete MA here. And then what kind of work will I get. I would be very happy if you answer. Thank you

Reply to Mustafijur molla

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Rahul SinghaStudy Abroad Expert

2 months ago

Hello Mustafijur. If you are looking for assistance with applying to universities abroad. Get in touch with our Shiksha Study Abroad Counsellors and book a counselling session absolutely free, Click Here: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/apply

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Aditi

6 months ago

Hi Shiksha Study Abroad, I have a query, I completed my bachelors in the year 2020 with first division, so can I apply on the basis of MOI?

Reply to Aditi

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Rahul SinghaStudy Abroad Expert

2 months ago

Hello Aditi. Thank you for writing in. A Medium of Instruction Certificate (MOI) is accepted proof of English proficiency. However, whether your preferred university/ college would be considering the MOI is something you will have to check. This is entirely at the discretion of the university and th

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Pratham

7 months ago

I am 10th pass , I want to check my efficiency in english I am eligible

Reply to Pratham

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Rahul SinghaStudy Abroad Expert

2 months ago

Hello Pratham. You can go ahead and take the IELTS exam to check your proficiency in the English language. However, do note that the IELTS exam is for candidates who are looking to study or migrate to countries that use English as their first language. You can opt for other English proficiency tests

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Megha Sharma

7 months ago

Hi! Piyush Wanted to know more about the procedure and preparation of IELTS exam. If you could help, please.

Reply to Megha Sharma

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Rahul SinghaStudy Abroad Expert

3 months ago

Hello Anmol. Will be happy to help you regarding any query that you may have on the IELTS exam.

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Rahul SinghaStudy Abroad Expert

3 months ago

Hello Megha. You can visit our IELTS preparation page for a number of preparation options. we have got sample papers, preparation tips and tricks, IELTS free online classes (recently launched), best books and study material among others. You can also visit the official IDP IELTS website for relevant

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