How to prepare for IELTS
First: where you are now
The free level check usually takes 15 to 20 minutes. It shows your level, from A1 to C2, and the range of overall IELTS band scores it roughly corresponds to according to the IELTS partners’ comparison. That way you know whether you only need to get to know the format or need to work on your English as well.
On your own, with official materials
- IELTS Ready Premium. The British Council gives it to candidates who book their test with it, from booking until seven days after the test. It contains practice tests and courses for all four skills.
- Free practice tests. The British Council’s practice tests are made up of questions from past tests.
- A test for getting to know IELTS on computer. The IELTS Familiarisation Test shows what the test looks like on screen. You get a score for Listening and Reading, but not for Writing and Speaking.
- Sample questions. Questions on ielts.org for each part of the test.
With our teachers
Alongside the test, our school offers separate preparation courses for IELTS. Prepare with teachers who specialise in this kind of course, online or at our premises in Zagreb and Split. Find out more.
At one of our partner preparation centres
We work with language schools that prepare candidates for IELTS. Each sets its own programme, timetable and price. List and map: Preparation centres.
Questions about preparation
How long does preparation take?
It depends on how far you are from the score you need. So start with the level check: if you are already at the required level, getting to know the format may be enough, and if you are not, you need to work on your English as well.
Do I have to take a course?
No. A course is not a condition for booking the test.
Does preparation guarantee a particular score?
No. Your score depends on your English on test day, and no one can guarantee it.