International English Language Testing System

The IELTS is an English language assessment test used by institution around the world to evaluate the English language skills of international students. While IELTS scores are used mostly by universities in Australia and England, it is gaining acceptance at institution in the United States. Currently, there are approximately 1,000 colleges and universities in the U.S. that will accept IELTS for undergraduate admission only. Graduate programs may ask that you submit scores from the TOEFL, not the IELTS.

If you are unable to take the TOEFL in Nepal for any particular reason, the IELTS may be an option for you. However, make sure before hand that the colleges you are applying to will accept IELTS scores. The IELTS website has a search feature that will tell you which U.S. institutions accept the IELTS.

The IELTS test consists of four separate sections – Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The Speaking section is administered separately, usually within a week of taking the other sections. IELTS scores range from 0-9, nine being the highest. American colleges that accept the IELTS usually require a minimum score of 6.5 for admission.

IELTS Quick Facts
1) The IELTS test is administered as a paper-based test by the British Council at Lainchaur, Kathmandu.
2) Testing is offered at least twice a month.
3) Students may also take the test in Pokhara, where testing is offered once every two months.
4) Registration for the test may be completed at the British Council itself.
5) The cost of taking the IELTS test in Nepal is comparable to what you would pay for the computer-based TOEFL.
6) Score reports are usually available two weeks after the written portion of the test.

Further Information

The British Council, Lainchaur, Kathmandu, Tel: 441-0798.

Website:
www.britishcouncil.org/Nepal

Official IELTS website:
www.ielts.org