IELTS Voices is the largest study of its kind, bringing together insights from 8,395 test takers and prospective test takers across 165 countries. Delivered through the global partnership of the British Council, IDP IELTS and Cambridge University Press & Assessment, it provides robust evidence on how IELTS test takers navigate English language testing in pursuit of study, work and migration opportunities.
IELTS Voices was developed to bring the voice of the test taker into conversations about international education, employment and migration. IELTS will continue this research annually, tracking how test taker needs evolve.
Conducted between March and April 2026, the research explores the motivations, experiences and decisions shaping international mobility.
It reveals an increasingly complex landscape in which test takers evaluate multiple destinations and pathways, with recognition, confidence and flexibility emerging as key drivers of test choice.
Across markets and pathways, four key themes emerged:
- Recognition enables flexibility across complex global pathways
Test takers prioritise tests accepted by the widest range of institutions, employers and governments. - Preparation supports readiness and progression
Many test takers view test preparation as contributing to communication skills, confidence and future success. - Outcomes matter as much as, if not more than, cost
Confidence in achieving study, work and migration goals is a stronger driver than cost alone. - Test taker journeys vary across markets and pathways
Needs, motivations, barriers and longer-term aspirations differ across markets, destinations, pathways and individual circumstances.
What this means for institutions
IELTS test takers prepare seriously, choose recognition and value outcomes over price, but no two journeys are alike.
For your institution:
- Be visible. Make IELTS and other accepted English language tests and required scores easy to find.
- Value readiness, not just results. Recognise that test preparation helps applicants build the skills needed to succeed at your institution.
- Tailor your support. Use local knowledge and data insights to better understand how needs vary by market and pathway.