For someone willing to go abroad for higher studies, IELTS should be one of the most heard terms. You might also have done abundant research on what is IELTS, IELTS course, IELTS syllabus, IELTS fees, IELTS practice, IELTS classes and so on. 

To add to the list of everything you need to know about IELTS, here we will reflect on some other important things you need to be careful of while preparing for IELTS.

What is IELTS? - A quick overview 

The International English Language Testing System, also known as IELTS is the most popular English proficiency assessment in the world.If you belong to a non-native English country and you wish to go to an English-speaking country for study, work or migration, you are required to demonstrate your English language proficiency.

IELTS certification is recognised by most of the universities, colleges and academic institutions in Australia, the USA, the UK, Canada, New Zealand, Ireland among others.

IELTS evaluates your English language ability in four categories:

1. Listening
2. Reading
3. Writing
4. Speaking

Your skills in each category is assessed and given a band score of 1-9 starting from non-user to expert user. Your overall IELTS band score is based on the average score of each part of the test.

Preparing for the IELTS exam

Acquiring IELTS certification might seem to be just a fulfilment of the visa or admission requirement to many. But in fact, it adheres to your-life skills while in a foreign land. 

Nevertheless, you will be at that particular place to study. And all you can hear and speak at your college is the English language. Having an acceptable level of proficiency in the English language will enrich your learning experience by easing understanding and both ways of communication. Additionally, it will also boost your confidence to socialise thereby also opening other professional avenues.

Again, you need not sit for the IELTS exam right away. There are IELTS preparation classes that help you test, practice and sharpen your English skills. Even if you have a higher level of English, you should not forget that you still need a score that certifies your capability. 

We understand that all you wish is to improve your English language skills and achieve a certain score. Most of the classes are of 4 to 8 weeks duration that might extend if you need additional practice in specific categories. However, how long you need to take the classes or prepare entirely depends on your present ability. 

Best IELTS preparation classes in Nepal

There are many IELTS preparation centres across Nepal. You may see billboards hanging with advertisements of those that claim to be the best. Your friends and relatives might even come forward suggesting you one or two. This might be quite overwhelming and confusing for you.

Below we suggest some things to consider while choosing the best IELTS coaching centre for you in your area.

1. Ensure  if the IELTS tutors are trained, highly qualified and have good teaching experience
2. Class sizes make a key difference in IELTS preparation. In small class sizes, you get attention and have more practice time
3. See if they provide enough reference and practice materials/IELTS preparation books- cost free
4. Check if they designate enough sample mock tests on areas you lack
5. Past IELTS result history could also be a significant benchmark
6. Frequent review and feedback from tutors is another thing not to be missed
7. If you are a job holder, location and class timings might be important too

Prior to getting into classes offered at coaching centres or even starting preparing yourself, being familiar with the IELTS test format and its module is inevitable. Moreover, IELTS is available on paper and on the computer. Therefore, getting acquainted with the medium you opt for is equally important.

If you are reluctant or unable by any chance to enrol into physical classes for IELTS preparations, you may even start preparing by yourself at home. There are online platforms available where you can take up both live and online classes at your convenience. 

Preparing IELTS with Learnsic

Top in the list of online IELTS preparation classes is Learnsic in Nepal. Learnsic is a virtual learning platform serving you with online classes on IELTS. As you are aware, learning online saves your time while also giving you the opportunity to learn within your comfort zone. 

Moreover, Learnsic could be your best choice amid this pandemic too. In most cases, the cost for IELTS preparation classes ranges between NPR 5,000-10,000. Some online platforms including Learnsic even offer your scholarships based on your earlier academic performances and record. 

What Learnsic offers

• Live interactive and online classes
• High quality study materials
• Doubt clearing sessions, quizzes and mock tests
• Q&A sessions with the experts/tutors and frequent review of learning progress
• Unique community platform for learning in order to discuss and solve your doubts
• Live classes based on a daily study plan, updated study material prepared by experts
• Flexible learning sessions

Registering for the IELTS examination

It is recommended to start preparing for the IELTS at least 2 months before your test date or plan to book a test date two months later once you begin preparing. There are no restrictions as such on how many IELTS exams a student appears or prescribed eligibility criteria. However, it is wise to check the eligibility criteria set by the university or college you are willing to apply for. 

In order to appear for the IELTS exam, you will have to register online or offline. You will have to register online via the British Council’s official IELTS registration page. You will have a choice for the nearest test centre as well. You can also book your test at the British Council. In both cases, you need to make sure you have a valid passport at hand. 

The IELTS registration fee/IELTS exam fee in Nepal

IELTS Exam Fee in Nepal (NPR)	IELTS Test Type
25,300	IELTS on paper -in centre (Academic and General Training)
23,650	IELTS on Computer- in centre (Academic and General Training)

IELTS test in Nepal

The British Council Nepal offers IELTS tests in 6 official locations across Nepal-Biratnagar, Birtamod, Butwal, Chitwan, Kathmandu and Pokhara.  Currently IELTS on paper tests are conducted in Biratnagar, Birtamod, Butwal, Chitwan, Kathmandu and Pokhara, while IELTS on computer tests is held in Kathmandu only. 

IELTS Test Schedule

Listening, Reading and Writing sections of the IELTS test are generally conducted and completed on the same day. For the Speaking test, you are allowed to choose a slot which can be taken on the same day or 3 days before or after the actual test date. 

If you are prepared well, you are certain to get a good IELTS score leading your way to your dream destination abroad. IELTS is about practicing and also about tips and techniques in solving the lessons. Therefore, you are required to choose the best IELTS preparation platform or coaching centre with experienced tutors.