IELTS General Training: Test Format, Fees, Preparation Strategy

The IELTS General Training test is a test that is designed to assess the English language skills of people who are planning to migrate to an English-speaking country or find work or study in an English-speaking environment. The IELTS Reading test is divided into four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into everything you need to know about IELTS General Training, from its purpose and format to tips and resources for success.

Understanding IELTS General Training

IELTS General Training is primarily designed for individuals who are planning to immigrate to English-speaking countries for work, training programs, or secondary education. Unlike the IELTS Academic Reading module, which is intended for those pursuing higher education or professional registration, General Training focuses on everyday communication skills in a workplace and social context. So in short, the IELTS General Training Test is for those who plan to migrate to a foreign country for:

• Getting a better job
• Immigration
• Studying or training at a below-degree educational level
• Get work-related training

IELTS General Training Test Duration

The total duration of the IELTS General Training test is 2 hours and 45 minutes. The test is divided into four sections, each of which has a set time limit:

• IELTS Listening: 30 minutes
• Reading: 60 minutes
• Writing: 60 minutes
• Speaking: 11-14 minutes

The Listening, Reading, and IELTS Writing sections are taken on the same day, one after the other, without any breaks. The IELTS Speaking test may either fall on the same day or any day up to a week before or after the test date.

IELTS General Training Registration Fees 

The  IELTS registration fee for IELTS General Training is typically the same as the registration fee for IELTS Academic. In India, the registration fee for both tests is currently INR 17,000. However, the fee may vary slightly depending on the test center and the country where you are taking the test.

IELTS General Training Test Format

The IELTS General Training test format for each section is mentioned below:

IELTS General Training Reading

The IELTS General Reading Test has a wider range of text types.

• Reading Passage 1: 2-3 short texts related to everyday life in an English-speaking country
• Reading Passage 2: 2-3 short texts related to work
• Reading Passage 3: 1 long text from advertisements, guidebooks, or notices

Check Out Our IELTS General Reading Practice Tests Here!

IELTS General Training Writing Test

• The IELTS General Training Writing Test for Task 1 and Task 2 are both 60 minutes long, with two tasks each.
• In IELTS General Writing Task 1 Writing Test, you will be asked to write a letter, while in IELTS Writing Task 2 of general training, you will be asked to write an essay of at least 250 words.

Check Out IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Essays for General Training Topics.

IELTS General Training Listening 

• The IELTS Listening Test is 30 minutes long, with 4 sections of 10 questions each.
• The difficulty level increases after each section, and each question is worth 1 mark.
• Paper-based test takers have an additional 10 minutes to transfer answers to the answer sheets, while computer-based test takers have an additional 2 minutes for rechecking answers.

IELTS General Training Speaking 

The IELTS Speaking Test is a 12-14 minute interview that consists of 3 parts:

• IELTS Speaking Part 1: General questions about yourself, such as your childhood, background, family, friends, and hobbies.
• IELTS Speaking Part 2: A long turn where you speak about a given topic for 1-2 minutes, with 1 minute to prepare.
• IELTS Speaking Part 3: A discussion about the topic you spoke about in Part 2.

 IELTS General Training Scoring

Each section of the IELTS General Training test is scored on a scale of 0 to 9. The overall general training IELTS score is calculated by averaging the scores from the four sections. A score of 7 or higher is generally considered to be a good score for the IELTS General Training test.

How to Prepare for the IELTS General Training Test?

The best way to prepare for the IELTS General Training test is to practice all four sections of the test regularly. There are many resources available to help you prepare, such as practice tests, IELTS online training courses, and IELTS training tutors. Here are some specific tips for preparing for IELTS GT exam:

• Understand the Test Format: Familiarize yourself with the test format, including the types of questions in each section. This will help you develop effective strategies.
• Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is key to success. Use official IELTS practice materials and take full-length practice tests to get a feel for the timing and difficulty.
• Improve Your English Skills: Enhance your language skills by reading newspapers, listening to podcasts, and engaging in conversations with native speakers.
• Time Management: Learn to manage your time effectively during the test. Don’t spend too long on one question; move on if you’re unsure.
• Take Professional Guidance/ Enroll in IELTS Online Training Courses: Consider enrolling in an IELTS online training course or hiring an IELTS training tutor who can provide personalized feedback and guidance.

IELTS General Training Books

There are many IELTS General Training books available, some of which are specifically designed for the IELTS General Training module. These IELTS General Training books include practice test questions, mock questions, practice tests, and expert tips and tricks to help you succeed on the General Training module. However, one of the most popular IELTS General Training book series is offered by IELTSMaterial. This IELTS online training platform offers a combo of IELTS General Training books to help students achieve their desired IELTS band score in general training.

IELTS Online Training 

In addition to its IELTS General Training books, IELTSMaterial also offers live learning sessions and conducts IELTS online training courses tailored to individuals preparing for the IELTS General Training module. Be sure to explore their IELTS General Training books or schedule a trial session to gain further insights into their IELTS Online Training Classes designed specifically for the General Training module.

IELTS General Training: A Key to Success in English-speaking Countries

The IELTS General Training test is a valuable tool for people who want to work, study, or live in English-speaking countries. By understanding the test format, scoring, and effective preparation strategies, you can increase your chances of getting the IELTS Band Score you need to achieve your goals.

Remember success in IELTS General Training is not just about being fluent in English. It’s also important to know how the test is structured, how it’s scored, and what to expect on test day. By being well-prepared, you can reduce your anxiety and increase your chances of success.

Also Read: 

Check out the following practice tests to prepare for the IELTS exam general training test:

• IELTS Writing Practice Tests 2025
• IELTS Reading Practice Tests – Free Sample Tests
• IELTS General Writing Task 1 Practice Tests
• Free IELTS Listening Practice Tests to Boost Your Score
• IELTS Speaking Practice Test: Preparation Tips, Practice Test Topics, Reference Material