Language assessment that truly reflects student capability


At IELTS we are committed to delivering English language assessment that gives a true and accurate reflection of test takers’ English ability.

With the right level of English, your applicants will have the skills they need to communicate effectively and to thrive in their new environment.

Expert opinion

Dr Tony Clark, Head of IELTS Research, Cambridge University Press & Assessment

Dr Tony Clark, Head of IELTS Research, Cambridge University Press & Assessment

Our research evidence - both new and existing - shows that IELTS sets students up for academic success.

Students who have good English language skills tend to have higher levels of confidence which helps them to fully engage in class and integrate into their new environment.

There are many factors that contribute to academic success once a student arrives at your organisation. IELTS uses a diverse range of tasks to activate the skills and abilities required on higher education courses. This means that by preparing for and taking the IELTS test your applicants demonstrate their English proficiency skills, and their ability to apply those skills in an academic context.

IELTS scores give you a good indication of an applicant’s academic readiness and ability to thrive when they arrive at your institution, laying the foundation for future academic success.

We make sure IELTS continues to be a reliable and valid assessment of English language proficiency so that you can be confident you’re recruiting students with the right skills for your course or programme.

Read our latest articles

Browse our latest articles on this topic which break down our full research into digestible chunks.

Full research papers

We publish lots of research papers every year. Here are some of the most recent ones.

Our speakers in the spotlight

Our researchers attend events all over the world sharing our expertise and latest thinking.

Sara Davila, ESL Research and Assessment Policy Analyst, IELTS USA presenting at PIE Live North America
PIE Live North America 23

Is English language proficiency testing still relevant? Sara Davila, ESL Research and Assessment Policy Analyst, IELTS USA

Dr Tony Clark, Head of IELTS Research, Cambridge University Press & Assessment
Research and validation seminar

Supporting high-stakes language assessment: What does IELTS research and validation involve? Tony Clark, Head of IELTS Research, Cambridge University Press & Assessment

Carla Pastorino-Campos, IELTS Principal Research Manager
Ethical Intelligence

Upholding quality and fairness in the AI era. Dr Carla Pastorino-Campos, IELTS Principal Research Manager, Cambridge University Press & Assessment

Our Professional Series papers

Browse our practitioner-focused papers for higher education administrators and leadership.

Admissions Simplified: Leveraging IELTS Scores for Comprehensive Evaluations