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IELTS, Study Abroad

Common myths about IELTS

March 31, 2022

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is the world’s most renowned English language test either to migrate or to pursue higher studies in any English-speaking country. There are two formats for IELTS test – General Training and Academic.

General Training is for applicants who want to migrate to another country, whereas, Academic is for the ones who wish to study for any undergraduate or post graduate program in an English-speaking country. Qualifying an IELTS exam pave the way for opportunities across almost 140 countries. The test is accepted by authorities of the immigration in the United States of America (USA), the United Kingdom (UK), Ireland, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. Over ten thousand organizations worldwide accept IELTS. When we tell people that we are about to take the IELTS test, we would receive many unsolicited advice which are misled by rumours. It is of due importance to cross check all the facts and be fully informed about the test rather than following the hearsay. We have listed below some common myths with the facts alongside.

Myth 1: IELTS is more difficult than other English tests like PTE, TOEFL and DUOLINGO

There is no doubt that this test requires systematic preparation and hard work. However, it is not more difficult than other tests. There are more parameters to each part of the test. For instance, when it comes to speaking, the criterion includes fluency, lexical resources, grammar range and its accuracy and pronunciation with approximately 5 sub-parameters under each. To prepare for IELTS, systematic improvement in grammar and learning how to use the wide variety of vocabulary is an inevitable factor in achieving a high band score. Most importantly, there is no pass or fail in IELTS. The candidates are assessed on the basis of the band score that ranges between 1 to 9. Candidates who would wish to pursue their higher studies (an undergraduate or a post graduate program) would need an overall band score of 6.5 with no score less than 6 in each part of the test. Candidates who would need to migrate to an English-speaking country would need an overall band score of 7. Because more detailed parameters are being evaluated in this test, anyone would need more preparation to score high. Its worthwhile taking IELTS considering its acceptance across countries and educational institutions. Having said this, we have to admit one aspect in writing which we have experienced with our own students. Those students who were struggling to score more than 6.5 in IELTS, was able to score 90 in PTE. This is because of the detailed stringent criteria laid out for IELTS.

MYTH 2: The level of difficulty of the test is different in different regions

This is one of the most common myths that surrounds the IELTS test. We have seen many students who prepare for the exams very well but are still hesitant in choosing the test centers in bigger cities thinking that they will be evaluated on a comparative performance. Many students have come to us seeking help in booking the test date and while choosing the test centers, they tend to choose faraway cities instead of the ones close to their home, thinking that IELTS in the remote areas might be easier. The fact is that, IELTS is the same irrespective of the city, state or region. IELTS evaluation is not done locally but is done from a central location. Therefore, this myth is completely baseless.

MYTH 3: Some modules are easier compared to others

This is a false belief that some modules to the test will be easy. We need to understand the fact that all modules are marked out of band of nine. Each individual will have different ability in answering a module. For instance, an individual might find listening and reading easier, whereas, for another it would be speaking or writing. Therefore, we should not generalize that some modules would be easier or difficult. When in case of listening, a candidate would need to focus on the audio being played, interpret the meaning of it, read and write at the same time. When it comes it reading, time management, right understanding of the question and the interpretation skills are very much necessary. All modules are designed to test individual’s language capability on that skill. Its meaningless in comparing the skills between different individuals.

MYTH 4: Complicated vocabularies and foreign accent help secure high score in the speaking section

This is a common misconception about the speaking test. Using a complicated vocabulary that is memorised, in fact, would create a negative impact if the usage in a sentence is not accurate. Speaking in a fake accent will never help one score high. Instead, we need to focus on using the not-so-common vocabulary with the right sentence structure and speak with clarity at a normal pace. All we need to make sure is to speak in an accent neutral way which means avoiding mother tongue influences (MTI). Listening to podcasts or YouTube videos of native English speakers will help one understand the different accents to English across the Globe. There are many different ways to improve our language capabilities. For example, following is a link to an Australian podcast – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XsFVp0PJzXc would help you get used to Australian accent.

MYTH 5: Never speak against the examiner’s opinion

There is no right and wrong answer. Sometimes, the way the examiner asks the questions might make you think they have an opinion to it but all they want to evaluate is how well you substantiate your idea. Please remember that IELTS is just a test of the English language. Every question posed by the examiner aims to evaluate only the different aspects of the language like lexical resources, grammar, fluency and pronunciation. It has nothing to do with your opinions, ideologies and beliefs as none of these are evaluation parameters. Therefore, be frank so that you are able to speak fluently with more clarity.

MYTH 6: The friendlier the examiner, the higher the speaking score

No, this is absolutely wrong. Their behaviour or response during the interview depends on their individual style. They will behave the exact same manner with every candidate. It is purely based on the evaluation criteria. The marking is not done during the interview. It is based on the evaluation of the recorded speech based on the parameters and sub-parameters.

MYTH 7: I don’t need an IELTS coaching

Many people the think that they do not need an IELTS coaching, only the videos in YouTube are sufficient for the preparation. Though there are many umpteen number of videos available in the public forum, its extremely difficult to separate good from bad as there are many misleading videos uploaded purely with the marketing intention without ensuring the accuracy of what is being covered. It is extremely heartening to see that how this misleading wrong information is getting huge followers. Anyone can prepare for an IELTS exam. Therefore, the coaching from the professionals is very much necessary to take you a long way. The evaluation criterion for the Indian examination and the international test are not the same. There is always a need for fine tuning.

Conclusion:

These are the main myths that we have come across during our IELTS teaching stint. If there are more that you have come across, please share them in the comments so that we can clarify those in our future blogs. Probably, you might have heard about these myths before. There might be few that we wouldn’t have mentioned here. All you need to do is, push aside all these myths and the focus should only in preparing for the test well. The positive mindset and confidence can do wonders once you have prepared for the exams.

Authored by : Manju Mahadevan

IELTS, OET, PTE, Study Abroad

COMPARITIVE STUDY OF IELTS, OET, PTE, TOEFL and DTE

January 9, 2022

English language proficiency is one of the significant criteria for students who wish to pursue their studies in universities where medium of education is English, especially in English speaking countries. For aspirants from countries where English is a second language, qualifying the English language test is very much essential. While IELTS is the most popular one and is accepted widely by universities across the globe, various other tests are also accepted by different universities. With so many options, students often end up being confused about which one to choose? Therefore, to help the candidates analyze different test options, we have done this comparative study of the different language tests.

What is IELTS?

IELTS is an International English Language Test for international education and global migration. It is a standardised and widely recognised test that evaluates the English language proficiency of non-native English speakers. The test is designed to analyse the English skills in listening, reading, writing and speaking. IELTS is more popular than all other international English tests across the globe. It is recognised by more than 10,000 organisations internationally. The tests are available throughout the year, in over 900 centres across the world.

IELTS exam score is recognised by over 140 countries that include the UK, Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada. The exams are conducted by IDP (International Development Program). IDP is an Australian company and is a global leader in international educational services. There are different categories to IELTS like the IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training. Yet another category is IELTS for UKVI. The IELTS for UKVI is a government approved secure test for English language. This certification can be used to prove the candidate’s English Proficiency for the UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI) purposes. IELTS UKVI follows the same pattern as that of IELTS.

The exam is offered in two modes: computer-based (online) and Pen & Paper. The registration fee is 14700 (Since 1^st of April 2020). There is also fee for cancellation and rescheduling. For more information on the cancellation and transfer of date, please refer the IDP website. Link: https://www.ieltsidpindia.com/information/transfer-cancellation

The band score ranges from 1 (lowest) to 9 (highest). Select universities and colleges offer IELTS scholarships for Indian students, based on the candidate’s academic record.

What is OET?

Occupational English Test (OET) is an English Language Test for healthcare professionals. This is recognised by various regulatory healthcare bodies. The language skills of the health care professionals who wish to practice in an English-speaking country are being assessed using this test. With an emphasis on communication in a healthcare environment, OET covers the significant language skills that include listening, reading, writing and speaking.

The exam is offered in three modes. OET on paper, OET on computer and OET at home. However, OET at home is available only to candidates who reside in countries where there is no test venue. For more information on OET test at home refer the link: https://www.occupationalenglishtest.org/test-information/delivery-modes/oet-at-home/

Including the UK, the USA, Canada, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand, OET results are accepted world-wide. However, some countries accept only test on paper. For more information on countries that accept the OET grades please refer: https://www.occupationalenglishtest.org/test-information/who-recognises-oet/

The score on all sub-modules together ranges from 0 to 500, where 0-90 is E, 100-190 od D, 200-290 is C, 300-340 is C+, 350-440 is B and 450-500 is A. A is equivalent to 8.0 – 9.0 of IELTS band score. The fee for OET exams is 587 Australian Dollars (Approximately rupees 32,000). This can only be paid through credit or debit card.

What is PTE?

Pearson Test of English (PTE) is accepted to gain admission in universities and for immigration purposes in countries like Australia, USA, UK, Ireland, Singapore, Canada and New Zealand. PTE scores are also accepted to obtain permanent residence in Australia and New Zealand. PTE is trusted by many colleges, institutions and professional bodies (more than 3,000 in number) to verify the English skills of the student who wish to apply with them.

PTE is now reduced to a two-hour test (since 16^th Nov 2021). PTE Academic is a test in 2 hours that measures English speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills. Part 1: Speaking and writing. Part 2: Reading, Part 3: Listening.

There are around 35 test centres in India. The fee is 13700 INR for both PTE Academic and PTE Academic Online (Prices are inclusive of 18% GST) as of Jan 2022. For more information on the above, refer https://www.pearsonpte.com/test-centers-and-fees

For a period of two years (from the date of exam), the PTE Academic scores are valid. Upon expiry, the PTE score is removed from the site in default, and will not be visible anymore. On the Global Scale of English, PTE Academic gives you a score from 10–90. PTE academic score 10-29 (A1), 30-42 (A2), 43-58 (B1, IELTS equivalent band 4-5), 59-75 (B2, IELTS equivalent 5.5-6.5), 76-84 (C1, IELTS equivalent band 7-8), 85-90 (C2, IELTS Equivalent band 9)

What is TOEFL?

TOEFL is a Test of English as a Foreign Language and is accepted by more than 11,500 universities and other institutions in over 160 countries. The test measures the prominent English skills — reading, listening, speaking, and writing. Please refer the link to check for the countries where TOEFL test is available. https://www.ets.org/toefl/score-users/about/country-list

TOEFL is a three-hour test. The total score possible is 0–120. 0-31 (IELTS band equivalent 0-4), 32-34 (IELTS band equivalent 4.5),
35-45 (IELTS band equivalent 5), 46-59 (IELTS band equivalent 5.5),
60-78 (IELTS band equivalent 6), 79-93 (IELTS band equivalent 6.5),
94-101 (IELTS band equivalent 7), 102-109 (IELTS band equivalent 7.5),
110-114 (IELTS band equivalent 8), 115-117 (IELTS band equivalent 8.5),
118-120 (IELTS band equivalent 9)

The charges for this test are 12,750 INR. Charges shall be applicable for cancellation and rescheduling. Refer the link for information on fees https://www.ets.org/toefl/test-takers/ibt/take/fees/

What is DET?

DET is the Duolingo English Test that comprises of the 4 sections- Reading, Speaking, Listening and Writing and takes about 45-mins to complete. It is accepted by thousands of institutions across the globe. Please check the below link to know the universities that accept DET. https://englishtest.duolingo.com/institutions

The Duolingo scores are marked on a scale of 10 – 160.
55-60 (IELTS band equivalent 4), 65-70 (IELTS band equivalent 4.5),
75-80 (IELTS band equivalent 5), 85-90 (IELTS band equivalent 5.5),
95-100 (IELTS band equivalent 6), 105-110 (IELTS band equivalent 6.5),
115-120 (IELTS band equivalent 7), 125-130 (IELTS band equivalent 7.5),
135-140 (IELTS band equivalent 8), 145-150 (IELTS band equivalent 8.5),
155-160 (IELTS band equivalent 9).

The exam fee is USD 49. The Duolingo accepts the exam fee payments through the PayPal and major credit cards.

Which one should I choose?

It is a challenge to assess which English test is more difficult. IELTS assess all the four skills like listening, reading, writing and speaking separately. This means that when you take the reading test, only the reading skills are tested, they are not integrated. IELTS offers you two modes of exam: pen & paper and

computer based. With IELTS, we need to do the speaking test, face-to-face with a human. There are detailed set of parameters for evaluating performance in each module in IETS. For example, writing module has parameters like Task response, coherence and cohesion, Lexical Resources, Grammatical range and accuracy. This makes it harder to score high, unless you have deeper language capabilities.

In PTE, on the contrary, the content and fluency are the major parameters that are taken into consideration and not so much of importance to Lexical Resources and Grammar. Therefore, people who are very fluent is speaking tend to score high in PTE. To quote an example, one of our students who scored overall 8 Band in IELTS in two consecutive attempts, could score only bank6.5 for writing, while her required score to secure admission to her choice of course was Band 7 or above on all modules. Thereafter, she wrote PTE and scored an overall score of 88 and scored 90 for writing and obtained admission to the same college. The exam is offered only on a computer-based model. TOEFL, will again be completely computer-based where you will not have to interact with a human For listening subtests, in both PTE & TOEFL, you will have to listen and take notes on lectures or on-campus conversations. You will need to answer the multiple choice-based questions based on the conversations you listened to. However, in IELTS, you will need to listen and write the answers as you go, over a different type of questions.

Conclusion

In Summary, first of all, you need to determine, which test shall be accepted by the university you wish to apply for. If you are not constrained, decide which fits you the best. You can choose to try out the free materials offered by IELTS, PTE and TOEFL in their own websites. The way you prepare for the test matters more than how difficult it is or what others say about the test. These tests are never obstacles, but are an opportunity to prove that you have all required skills to live and communicate conformably in a foreign country.

Authored By :

Manju Mahadevan

IELTS, PTE, Study Abroad

Top 10 Reasons to Study Abroad

September 18, 2021

Studying abroad shall be one of the most benefitting experience in a student’s life. When you study abroad, you have the opportunity to study in a new country and experience the culture of a new terrain. Here are the top ten reasons to study abroad

1. Explore the world

The substantial reason, one should choose a study abroad program is, the OPPORTUNITY to SEE the WORLD around. You will then have the option to experience a new country with magnificent outlooks, activities and traditions. Additionally, this will include the opportunity to see new lands, natural wonders, arts, archeology, museum and the landmark of the host nation. Besides this, when you are abroad you have the opportunity to see the neighboring countries as well.

2. Education

Another important reason you need to consider studying abroad is to grab the chance to experience the different styles of education. You’ll have the option to see a side of your major subject that you might have not been exposed to at the home country after you enroll for a study program abroad. Immersing yourself completely into the education system of the host country is a distinguished method to understand the people, traditions and its culture. As education is the main feature for the study abroad program, choosing the right school is an important element.

3. Encompass new culture

Once you choose to study abroad, for many, it would be the first time they are leaving home. When you acquire education abroad you will find amazing new foods, customs, traditions and social atmosphere. Therefore, you can then witness a completely new way of life.

4. Whet your Language Skills

One of the considerable draws is the opportunity to study a foreign language. Studying abroad, totally helps you plunge into a new language. There is no better way to learn a language than diving into it. Of course, passing IELTS, PTE or OET before moving to any English speaking country would be of great help.

5. Career Opportunities

Many students identify that they love their host country so much that in future, they decide to work there. Once you complete your study abroad you will have a new perspective on culture, language skills, eminent education and enthusiasm to learn. Needless to say, these are all the important attributes an employer would look for!

6. Find new interest

If you still question the idea of studying abroad, understand that studying in a different country offers many activities/interested which you would never have discovered in your home country. Most importantly, you might find that you will have talents hidden in you for hiking, water sports, snow skiing, golf, or various other new sports you may never have tried back home.

7. Improves confidence and personality

Studying abroad brings out your independent nature. Students who study abroad eventually explore their new nation and discover the curio and excitement. Above all, you will get the opportunity to discover yourself while being a part of the new culture.

8. Graduate Admissions

Students who study abroad demonstrate diversity and exhibit the fact that they aren’t afraid to seek out new challenges or find solutions for any difficult situation they need to encounter. Eventually, students who study abroad display curiosity and educational insight to be a leader in graduate schools.

9. Experience in Life

For many, this may be the one-time opportunity they ever get to travel or explore for a longer period of time. Utilize the option to travel around the globe without commitments but with your focus only on studies and exploration. Studying abroad is unlike any other opportunities you will get to experience, is very unique.

10 Experience a different style of teaching

The benefits of studying abroad are immense at any stage in your education. However, for those students who are planning to study abroad, identifying the right study program to fit their requirements can be exigent. Hence, it’s equally important to find a program that will help you meet your objectives.

Studying abroad will help you gel into various educational settings and expand your horizon in academics. Developing the capability to adapt to different educational settings will make you more versatile in your workplace. Besides that, opportunity to learn from other students from different countries would be an awesome experience.

When it comes to foreign education, lots of false information reach potential students, which projects an alternate reality, which eventually make them take life changing decisions. We attempt to break few myths and lay out the true information to the possible extent.

a. Studying abroad is very expensive.

The cost of studying abroad is predominantly higher than in India, no doubt. The total cost involved in the program will depend upon many factors like the university, location and duration of the course. If you plan your finances effectively, your education will never seem a burden. Also, the finances need to be looked at a different perspective. Therefore, it is important to focus on, not the expense point of view, but the long term benefits you reap out of it. Moreover, you have the option to take up part time jobs to meet your daily expenses

b. Difficulty in getting scholarships

When it comes to scholarship for international students, there are two types. Merit based and need based. Besides this, you can avail scholarship programs sponsored by few global, national and regional organisations. You can be in touch with the international student’s community to gain better understanding on your specific eligibility criteria.

c. Employers do not give importance to candidates who studied abroad.

Like we discussed before, employers associate study abroad candidates with skills like international exposure, social skills, strong problem-solving skills, language proficiency, self -reliance, risk taking, cross culture dynamics, flexibility, global networks.

d. There will be problems communicating with foreigners

In most foreign colleges/schools, English is the spoken language and also the medium of instruction. Take this as an opportunity to improve your linguistic proficiency. Furthermore, you will gain the near-native fluency in English that would add to your skills in communication.

e. Indian students face neglection

Media, to a greater extent creates a wrong impression about Indians. A distorted image of the reality is being portrayed by the media. Professors are more like mentors than teachers and are very much approachable. They believe that, to achieve the effective means of learning, students should never feel threatened.

f. Studying abroad is not safe anymore

There is a zero-tolerance policy towards the harassment of international students in colleges. Staff and students need to adhere to all rules and obligations. However, safety measures you need to take care of while studying abroad is no different. In conclusion, though there are some challenges that are to be dealt with, Study abroad is definitely worthwhile in terms of the learning experience, broadening of mindset as well the career opportunities it offers

Manju Mahadevan

SkillUp Global

Note: A separate article covering the options that are available for study abroad will be released soon. Keep visiting!

IELTS

Which all countries could be considered for higher education?

April 9, 2021

Over the past few years, the numbers of people migrating to other countries have increased drastically, especially to pursue their higher studies. Most of the students are confused due to the wide range of courses and job opportunities that are being offered by different countries.

Earlier, people preferred to migrate to the US, but in the present scenario the trend have changed and they are interested to study and work in countries like Canada, Australia, UK, New Zealand, Germany, Ireland, Netherland, etc.

Each student prefers the best country and they do researches based on their criteria and area of interest. Every country is different from one another and we have done a comparison on different countries in order to ease the process of analysing for students.

UK Study options for International Students

There are plenty of benefits for people who are planning to study in the UK, especially people with medical background. The medical students as well as the professionals are provided free insurance and various other benefits. The rules of immigration have changed recently which provides 2 years of stay back for all students after their studies. Besides being the second most popular study destination in the world, it is also a safe haven for people who needs part-time jobs. Most interesting factor is that, IELTS or any other language tests are not mandatory in most of the well-known universities of the UK.

Australian International Education

Australia is known as the most highly paid as well as the most expensive countries in the world. They provide with high living standard and also the climatic conditions are similar to that of India. For all the students who are planning to pursue their studies, IELTS is mandatory with an average score of 6.5. Attending other language examinations like PTE and TOEFL are also possible other than IELTS for people who are planning to work in Australia.

Moreover, Australia provides high employment prospects and part-time jobs for students are easily available. The students could stay back at Australia for 3-4 years after their studies which would help them in finding a good job once they are graduated. On the other hand, for individuals who are planning to permanently settle in Australia, the processing will be time consuming and tiring. Citizenship will be provided only based on points which they achieve during their period of stay at Australia.

International Education Canada

Canada is preferred by most students nowadays as it provides a wide range of courses from diploma to post graduate levels. It is compulsory for students to pass IELTS examination with an overall score of 6. Canada being a large country in terms of area, people could easily get accommodation in the country side and their chances of getting PR will be improved. Even though Canada is widely preferred, the climatic conditions are hard to cope with, especially during winter.

For the past few years, the Canadian Immigration system have introduced a fast-track system called Express Entry, which provides people with PR, who achieve an overall score of 7.5 – 8 in their IELTS examination

Study in USA for International Students

USA was the most preferred country for immigration. But, as the processing and rules became stricter than earlier, people face a lot of visa rejections and also the health care in the US is expensive. Hence people prefer other countries rather than the US.

Once students migrate to the US, they are provided with wide range of employment opportunities. Moreover, about 3 years of stay back is provided for students after their studies. The minimum time to achieve permanent residency is nearly 8 – 10 years.

International Study Programs in Germany

Germany is a country that provides free education in Bachelors and Masters level. Either TOEFL OR IELTS exams with a minimum score should be achieved by the students who wanted to pursue their higher studies in Germany. The visa that is issued for Germany is known as Schengen visa and an individual who possess this visa could travel all over Europe without any restrictions.

The international students are provided with 1.5 years of stay back after the completion of their studies. Since, Germany is not an English-speaking country, for a better survival it is necessary to learn the German language. There are plenty of job opportunities and the living expenses are reasonable and affordable in Germany.

Higher Education in Sweden

Like Germany, Sweden also provides free higher education for students. The international students are covered under some medical insurance. The rate of unemployment is low in Sweden; hence the job market is huge. Students could write and clear their examinations within three attempts.

In order to get admission in good universities, a student should score a minimum of 6.5 in their IELTS examination and moreover, there is no language barrier.

New Zealand International Students

New Zealand is very close to Australia and has similar rules. The cost of living is high but the weather is better than Canada and the UK. The minimum IELTS score a student should achieve is 6.5. Like Australia, a student in New Zealand could work for 20 hours in a week and during vacation it will extend up to 40 hours per week.

After studies, international students can stay back in New Zealand with a work permit for three years. A demerit of the country is that getting PR is extremely difficult. The part-time jobs are easily available in the country.

IELTS

Tips to score high in Computer-based IELTS tests

October 4, 2020

It is needless to say that computer-based IELTS tests and online tests are becoming popular and all other international English tests are also becoming either online or computer-based.

British Council as well as IDP provide computer-based tests now and are becoming popular especially in the Covid-19 affected cities. Unlike pen-and-paper test, more number of test days available each month to take test if you choose to go for computer-based IELTS test. Besides this, results are announced faster too. You will get the results in less than 5 days.

Are the computer-based tests similar to pen-and-paper test?

Yes, it is similar in terms of the type of questions, patterns and complexity. Only difference is how the tests are conducted.

How do you choose which one would be suitable for you?

Very simple! Try and answer the following questions. If you get yes for all, computer-based test would be good for you.

Are you a computer savvy person?
Can you type fast and are you comfortable with a copy-paste facility?
Are you a person who would prefer a short break between the LRW test modules?
Do you get nervous being in an examination hall with over 100 test takers?
Are you concerned about your handwriting and worried that what you write might not be legible for examiners?

If you have answered ‘Yes’ to all the above questions, a computer-based test is designed for you. Go for it.

If you are choosing to go for computer-based tests, the following tips/information will help you better prepare and perform well in the test.

Tips to face Computer-Based IELTS test:

1. Centre will not be overcrowded. Max 10 candidates only will be there and therefore, the environment will be peaceful for IELTS online test.

2. Examiner will help in between, if we are stuck with any confusion, like how to answer a particular type of question. Of course, he/she will not help you with answers.

3. Please remember that, for match-the-following type questions, answer will have to be dragged and dropped.

4. Paper, pencil, rubber, sharpener will be provided for all modules.

5. You will get a 2 to 3 minutes gap in between each module. Login id and password for each module (LRW) will be provided to you. We have to log in to each module, once the examiner gives you go ahead.

6. You can adjust the volume for the listening tests at the start or even in between tests. Headsets, which you get might not be a noise-canceling one, therefore, it is recommended to keep the volume little on the higher side to avoid getting disturbed by the sound from other’s headphones.

7. For reading, both passages and questions will be on the same screen. It will not be necessary to even scroll down to read the entire passage. The computer screen will be considerably large. To be exact, each section will be in a single slide/page. You will have to click next only 3 times. This is the same for the listening test also. You can also copy and paste words.

8. For the IELTS listening test, if you complete reading the questions within the given time, you can click the NEXT icon or press the tab button on the keyboard to go to the next section and start reading questions before the previous section audio starts. You can go back and forth anytime. However, the audio will continue as normal.

9. For IELTS writing there are 2 benefits, the word count will be displayed on the screen, which will avoid the need to count the words and you can edit the content anytime.

10. You will not be allowed to take wristwatch or mobile phones inside the lab. However, time left will be displayed on the screen for each test. Only minutes will be displayed, so be careful about the last minute of the test. Please note that your session will be logged out automatically after exactly an hour.

11. You can go to the washroom anytime except for the last 10 minutes of each test and during the gap between two tests.

12. You will have to wear a mask and a pair of gloves while taking the test. Practice speaking with mask on and typing with gloves on. Some centres will provide gloves if candidates fail to bring them. Please don’t count on it. It is safer to bring your own, so that you can get a comfortable one. Please practice using gloves, as you might find it a little difficult to type due to its slippery finish. Occasionally, they are allowing to remove gloves, if you are very uncomfortable with it, but, as soon as the test is over, you will have to wear it again.

13. For speaking, the test centre authorities will adjust the volume and camera before the start of the test. Examiner will not be wearing mask, so voice will be clear. Wearing a mask is also mandatory while taking the speaking test, for candidates. But if we feel very uncomfortable with it, they will allow to take test removing the mask. Since the decision entirely depends on the examiner, be prepared to speak with mask. Please but a thin mask which will be impact your sound. Simple single use masks are far better in terms of sound clarity. Thicker multi-layered cotton masks will significantly reduce your sound clarity.

14. Cue card will appear on the screen for 1 minute. You will be given a paper, pencil, rubber and sharpener to take notes.

15. Headphones will be there for speaking test also.

16. Locker facilities is available at the centre.

If you need more information or have some clarifications, please feel free to contact SkillUp Global (info@skillupglobal.com)

Regards,
Sony George
SkillUp Global