There are two IELTS types

There are two types of IELTS exams: the IELTS Academic test and the IELTS General Training test. Both tests assess the English language proficiency of non-native English speakers, but they are designed for different purposes.

1. IELTS Academic Test: This test is designed for individuals who plan to study at an undergraduate or postgraduate level in an English-speaking country. The test assesses whether a person has the necessary language skills to comprehend and communicate effectively in an academic setting. It is also used as a requirement for professional registration in certain fields such as medicine, nursing, and engineering.

2. IELTS General Training Test: This test is designed for individuals who are going to English-speaking countries for work experience, training programs, or secondary education. The test assesses a person’s general language proficiency in social and workplace contexts.

Both IELTS tests consist of four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The Listening and Speaking sections are the same for both tests, while the Reading and Writing sections differ in content and task types. 

In addition to the two main types of IELTS tests, there is also an IELTS Life Skills test, which is designed to meet UK Visas and Immigration’s (UKVI) requirements for certain visa categories. The IELTS Life Skills test assesses a person’s ability to communicate effectively in English in everyday life situations, and it only has two sections: Speaking and Listening.