The IELTS exam tests four skills — listening, reading, writing and speaking — and scores are reported on a band scale from 0 to 9. Universities and visa authorities each set their own required scores, so start by checking exactly what your course needs. Then use this six-week plan as a starting point and adjust it to your own level.
Before you begin: take a practice test
Sit a full practice paper under timed conditions. It shows your current level and which sections need the most attention. Be honest about the result — it is your baseline, not a judgement.
Weeks 1 and 2: learn the format and build habits
- Learn the question types in each section and how much time each one gives you.
- Read English every day — articles, journals or books on topics you find interesting.
- Listen to podcasts, lectures or news in a range of accents.
- Start a vocabulary notebook and review it daily, learning words in context rather than in isolation.
Weeks 3 and 4: strengthen your weakest skills
- Listening: practise following the recording while reading the questions, and check spelling in your answers.
- Reading: practise skimming and scanning, and do not spend too long on any single question.
- Writing: plan before you write, organise your ideas clearly, and stay within the time and word guidelines.
- Speaking: record yourself answering common topics, then listen for hesitation, repetition and unclear pronunciation.
Weeks 5 and 6: practise under exam conditions
- Complete full timed practice tests at least once a week.
- Review every mistake and note why it happened, not just what the correct answer was.
- Ask a teacher or experienced tutor to give feedback on your writing and speaking.
- Rest properly in the last few days — cramming rarely helps.
Test day tips
- Bring the identification the test centre requires and arrive early.
- Read the instructions carefully, especially word limits for answers.
- Do not leave an answer blank; a considered guess is better than nothing.
- In the speaking test, speak clearly and give full answers rather than one-word replies.
What if you need more time?
Six weeks suits many learners, but if your starting level is well below your target, allow longer. It is better to sit the test when you are ready than to pay for repeated attempts. If you would like help choosing between IELTS and other accepted tests, or finding preparation support, our team is happy to advise you.
