IELTS Basics
IELTS Exam Format and Structure
Knowing the exact IELTS format removes surprises on test day and lets you plan your timing. This lesson breaks down each section, the number of questions, and the order in which you sit them.
Test order and timing
Listening, Reading and Writing are always completed on the same day, one after another with no break. The Speaking test may be on the same day or up to seven days before or after.
| Section | Questions | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Listening | 40 questions, 4 parts | ~30 min + 10 min transfer (paper) |
| Reading | 40 questions, 3 passages | 60 min |
| Writing | 2 tasks | 60 min (20 min Task 1 + 40 min Task 2) |
| Speaking | 3 parts | 11–14 min |
Paper vs computer-delivered IELTS
The content and scoring are identical, but computer-delivered IELTS gives results faster (often 3–5 days) and has no separate transfer time in Listening. Speaking is always a face-to-face interview with a real examiner in both formats.
Writing Task 2 is worth twice as much as Task 1. Spend no more than 20 minutes on Task 1 so you protect 40 minutes for the essay.
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Take test →Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a break during IELTS?+
No. Listening, Reading and Writing run back-to-back with no break, so build stamina by practising all three in one sitting before test day.
How many questions are in IELTS?+
Listening and Reading each have 40 questions. Writing has two tasks and Speaking has three parts.