Which IELTS exam should I take?

What is the International English Language Testing System, or IELTS? It’s the world’s most respected way to test your English language skills.

There are different types of IELTS tests you can take with the British Council – like the IELTS General Training test vs IELTS Academic test. The best IELTS test for you depends on what you want to do.

If you are applying to certain organisations, start by checking with them which test you need to do. Do this before you book your IELTS exam from British Council.

The IELTS TEST PARTNERS* no longer offer IELTS for UKVI on Paper in Bangladesh from the 27 July 2025. Test takers can still take IELTS for UKVI on Computer in Bangladesh. UKVI on Computer offers results within 1-5 days and is available throughout the week, offering test-takers great availability.

*The IELTS test is jointly owned by British Council, IELTS Australia Pty Ltd (ABN 84 008 664 766), which is wholly owned by IDP Education Ltd (‘IDP: IELTS Australia’) and Cambridge University Press and Assessment English (part of the University of Cambridge), collectively referred to as the IELTS TEST PARTNERS or IELTS PARTNERS.

How to find the best IELTS test for you

When to choose IELTS Academic test

Take the IELTS Academic test if you want to study abroad for a university or college degree at undergraduate or postgraduate level, or if you want to work in a professional organisation.

When to choose IELTS General Training test

Take the IELTS General Training test to study abroad at below degree level, work in an English-speaking country or your own country, or emigrate to an English-speaking country.