The Difference Between IELTS Academic vs General Training

In the IELTS exam, there are two options available for individuals to take their test on, depending on the purpose of taking the test. The Difference Between IELTS Academic vs General Training must be known to the candidates which are the two options to choose between based on your abroad goals. To know extensively about them, let us now dive into the information about the IELTS Academic vs General Training.

The IELTS Academic - Format, Scoring, Resources & Tips is perfect if you aim to study at a foreign university or college as it checks your English skills to make sure you are ready for the academic challenges in that particular English-speaking country. On the other hand, the IELTS General Training: Test Format, Fees, Preparation Strategy is for you if you head towards an English-speaking country for work, training programs, or immigration as it focuses on everyday English skills that you will need in social and workplace environments.

Let’s check out the difference in much more detail to prepare and acquire a band score of 8+.

Differences Between the IELTS Academic vs IELTS General Training

Two of the four modules have different formats when comparing the IELTS Academic and General tests. It is important to use the IELTS Books to Use During IELTS Preparation to achieve a band 8+. 

The table below highlights the differences between the IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training.

Since the writing tasks are different in IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training, it is necessary to become familiar with the IELTS Writing Task 1. Remember that with the right strategies and consistent practice, you will be able to become familiar with the structure and excel in the IELTS exam.

Exam Structure in IELTS Academic and General Training

Now that you’ve read about the difference between IELTS Academic and General training, read about the exam structures in both modules of the IELTS exam, which we’ve highlighted for you below.

IELTS Exam Duration

The exam duration for the IELTS exam is same for both IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training which is 2 hours 45 minutes (same for both test types). However, each sections would have its individual time frame which you need to follow and complete answering the question within the given time.

Difference Between the IELTS Academic vs General Writing Task 1

The Writing Task 1 is different as the Academic IELTS requires you to write a report whereas the IELTS General Writing Task 1 requires you to write a letter. Before diving into the practice tests, it is important to get familiar with the questions as well as the structure given in the IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 and the General Training. 

The table below shows the difference between the IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 vs the General Training Task 1.

Even though the Writing Task 1 is different for IELTS Academic and General Training, the IELTS Writing Task 2 is the same for both test types expecting you to write 250 words on a given prompt. However, since there are different essay types, it is important to understand the structure for each and then attempt to write the essay to achieve a score 8+.

Difference Between the IELTS Academic Reading vs General Training Reading

In the IELTS Reading, you will be assessed based on your ability to find the answers to the questions given in three sections. However, the IELTS Academic Reading would provide you with longer academic passages while for the IELTS General Reading, you will be given shorter and multiple passages. To ace this section with a band score of 8+, it is necessary to understand the questions since there will be different words and synonyms used. Therefore, understand the concept of Paraphrasing : Definition & Purpose before giving the IELTS exam.

The table below suggests the specific aspects which shows the difference between the IELTS Academic Reading and General Training Reading.

With consistent practice using the IELTS Reading Practice Tests, you will take a step closer towards achieving a band 8+. However, since there are different question types, you need to practice each of them first to understand the specific strategies to be incorporated. After getting familiar with the types, you can attempt the full-length tests to get a band score in real time.

Comparison of Evaluation Methods in IELTS Academic vs General Training

The IELTS Listening, Speaking, and Writing modules are evaluated in the same way for both exams. However, IELTS Reading is evaluated differently for the IELTS Academic vs General training. Have a look at the table below for a better understanding of the IELTS Band Score: How to Calculate Your IELTS Score?

IELTS Academic vs General Speaking

The IELTS Speaking test format is also the same for both types. The speaking test is on a separate day from your other tests with, an IELTS examiner.

• IELTS Speaking Duration: 13 minutes (same for both test types)
• The format is the same: 3 tasks to be done – An introduction and interview, a Cue card where you discuss a specific topic and a follow-up discussion that discusses further.

IELTS Academic vs General Listening

Both the IELTS Academic and General versions have the same format for the IELTS Listening test. Here, candidates write their answers on the question paper as they listen and they are given 10 minutes at the end to transfer their answers to an answer sheet.

Four Sections (With recordings): Each has a different type of recording and a variety of question types.

• Recording 1: A conversation between two people in an everyday social context.
• Example: Two friends planning a trip.
• Recording 2: A monologue set in an everyday social context
• Example: A speech about local facilities.
• Recording 3: A conversation between up to four people set in an educational scenario.
• Example: A university tutor and a student discussing an assignment.
• Recording 4: A monologue on an academic subject
• Example: A university lecture.

Whether you plan to study at a university or migrate to an English-speaking country for a job, there is always an IELTS test to help you achieve it. Understanding the difference between the two types of tests – IELTS Academic vs IELTS General can make it easier for you to choose based on your goals!

Useful Links:

• Free IELTS Practice Tests 2025 | Practice IELTS Mock Test Online
• IELTS Exam Preparation Tips for Band Score of 8+
• Common IELTS Essay Topics for Writing Task 2
• Free IELTS Listening Practice Tests to Boost Your Score
• Latest IELTS Speaking Cue Card Topics with Samples Answers (2025)

Also check :

• IELTS Vs OET – Everything you need to know!
• IELTS vs PTE - Which is Easier and Better for You?