ALL THINGS IELTS - DOCTORS LOUNGE

The Many Uses of IELTS

IELTS is a popular international test of English language proficiency, with uses that cut across several aspects, as we will explore below. But firstly, let us establish that there are different types of IELTS (listed below), and may not be used interchangeably. One must therefore be sure of what IELTS he or she needs for the particular application they plan to submit.

Types of IELTS

IELTS Academic

IELTS General Training

IELTS UKVI

IELTS Life Skills

~ Academic pathway into US, Canada and UK Many US, Canada and UK schools require IELTS Academic as an admission criteria (although substitutes like TOEFL, Duolingo or OET exist. However, IELTS stands out in many ways, especially for medical doctors. In particular IELTS Academic is a requirement for PLAB/UKMLA registration.

~ For immigration purposes into Canada and the UK

IELTS General Training is usually an immigration requirement for visa application into these countries. For example, it is a requirement for Canadian permanent residence application.

HOW TO ACE YOUR IELTS

Debunking the Myths

To ace IELTS, it is not true that you must read a lot! It is less about the totality of your English language knowledge, and more about your ability to play by the rules of the game. There are salient mistakes that cost a lot in the IELTS. This is why this YouTube video should be your first in your preparation process: (you can watch at faster playback speeds to save time)

https://youtu.be/Jzps8q2es7c?si=_focoPNPsT2epuDA

WRITING GUIDE

I found IELTS Advantage as one of the best materials online to conquer the writing aspect of IELTS. If you follow the guide conscientiously, you will do well. (And make sure to do the 5-day challenge)

https://youtu.be/ihHU8coGCNw?si=_d0QymIO82czYbLW~ https://youtu.be/1aQZ7_tfgps?si=qyCNS6boxgqkwWtM

READING GUIDE

In this section, some aspects may be better approached by reading the questions first, and others may require you read the passage first. Ultimately, it depends on the individual’s style. Find out what works best for you.

SPEAKING GUIDE

~ You don’t need to speak/pronounce like a British to do well in the speaking part. Same point: learn the rules

USEFUL MATERIALS

Cambridge reading, listening PDFs

https://t.me/asmmaan122

(Download them under the ‘files’ subsection on Telegram)

N/B: While studying, search for the corresponding audio on YouTube (eg. ‘IELTS 14 listening test 3’), rather than downloading lots of audios!

ADDITIONAL INFO

Before Exams

~ I’ll advice you focus on your weak points, rather than allocating equal amount of time to everything (study smart, not hard!). If you are fine with your performance on your listening test practice, spend less time on it!

~ Don’t forget to choose the right type of IELTS, depending on your goal (Academic, General Training)

~ For Nigerian doctors, don’t write your IELTS too early (e.g, writing at the beginning of your housemanship year when you still plan to do youth Service). It has a 2-year validity period.

~ At the same time, consider how long it will take for your results to be out, in order to meet up with PLAB or Canadian PR registration, or admission deadline

In The Exam Hall

~ Don’t fall into the trap of taking a break during your reading task (this is the only time you’ll be eligible for a break during the exam). Otherwise, you will be required to form a queue to thumbprint out and then thumbprint back in, while the clock ticks!

~ For the writing aspect, plan before you start writing, so that you can make a fluid delivery.

After The Exams

~ Brace up, eat well, and leave the rest for God!

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