CostFree prep · test fee paid (verify current)
DifficultyIntermediate
Prep time~100 hours
Format4 papers: Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking
What IELTS is
The English test most Pakistani universities abroad, and immigration routes, ask for. Bands run 0-9; many programmes want 6.0-6.5+.
Free preparation route
- edX: "IELTS Academic Test Preparation" (University of Queensland) — free audit, full 8-week course.
- FutureLearn: "Understanding IELTS" (British Council) — free access window.
- BBC Learning English Exam Skills videos for last-week strategy.
- Daily: 6 Minute English for listening stamina.
Exam format
- Listening: 30 min · Reading: 60 min · Writing: 2 tasks, 60 min · Speaking: 11-14 min face-to-face.
- Academic vs General Training — pick based on study vs work/immigration.
Pakistani tips
- Test fees change often — always verify the current fee on the official British Council/IDP Pakistan pages before registering.
- Beware "guaranteed band" agents — a very common Pakistani scam. Register only through official portals.
- Practise Writing Task 1 (charts) with real samples — the biggest score-lever for Pakistani test-takers.