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What is IELTS?

What is IELTS?

IELTS is a test developed by the world’s leading experts in language assessment on four key English language skills: listening, reading, writing and speaking. It is designed to assess the language ability of people who aim to study, work, immigrate and integrate an English-speaking environment.

IELTS is Globally Recognised

IELTS – The International English Language Testing System is: The world’s most popular English proficiency test, with 3.5 million IELTS tests taken in 2018; Recognized by over 10,000 organizations worldwide, including schools, universities, employers, immigration authorities and professional bodies; Administered in over 1600 test locations in over 140 countries. Test availability increased last year with the global roll-out of IELTS on Computer.

IELTS is Accepted and Trusted in Canada

IELTS is the preferred high stakes English language test in Canada. Trusted by over 350 Canadian organizations, it was the first test to be recognized by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and Immigration Quebec as proof of English language proficiency for Express Entry (Skilled Immigrants), Quebec-selected skilled workers, Provincial Nominee, etc.


In May 2014, the IRCC announced it was renewing its trust in IELTS for another five years. With IELTS, you can go anywhere in Canada, and beyond.

  • IELTS Academic: If you want to study at university, at an undergraduate or postgraduate level, or join a professional association where English is a prerequisite.
  • IELTS General Training: If you want to apply for Express Entry or any other immigration program in order to establish anywhere in Canada. Read more about Immigration To Canada.

To find out more about IELTS, visit the British Council IELTS Canada webpage.

Unsure about how to book your IELTS test? Follow this step-by-step guide to help you register for your IELTS test. IELTS Registration Process – A Step-by-Step Guide.

Coast English Testing is BC’s #1 Rated IELTS Test Centre

Official IELTS testing in Surrey, Burnaby, Richmond, New Westminster, Coquitlam & Vancouver, BC. We are dedicated to providing you with excellent customer service and testing facilities, so that you can achieve your goals. Read more about our IELTS on paper locations and IELTS on computer locations.