Preparing for IELTS is one of the first steps on your to-do list may when planning to go study abroad, and you’re probably wondering if you can take the IELTS without any preparation.
You can take the IELTS without preparation when you’re confident about your English language skills. There are no required courses or prep needed for the test. As a general rule, some preparation is recommended since the final test score can impact your plans to relocate.
Everyone’s situation and skills are unique, so how much prep you need to get your minimum score will be different from anyone else’s. Stay here and learn more about the IELTS, including how to prep and the score you need to get the visa you want.
Taking The IELTS Without Preparation
Many students think they can take the IELTS without any preparation and achieve a high score. Unfortunately, this isn’t always true. To achieve a high score on the IELTS test, it is essential to do some practice.
There are a lot of online resources and practice tests you can use to get yourself ready. There’s also online courses meant to prepare you, so you have the best chance to get the score you need the first time.
Many colleges and universities overseas require the IELTS as a condition to be admitted. The same is true for work visas. So, passing this test is an essential piece of the puzzle to get right.
The good news is you get more than one attempt to pass and get the score you need.
How Many Times Can You Take the IELTS?
There are no limits to the number of times you can sit for the IELTS. You may take the test numerous times and use your best score. Unfortunately, you must pay the fee each time you attempt the test.
Since the cost can add up pretty quickly, it’s in your best interests to do some prep so you can take the test once and get the score you need.
These five countries have established a minimum score that they will accept. Here they are:
| Country | Minimum Score |
| Canada | 4 – 7 |
| U.S. | Varies by Organization |
| U.K. | 4 – 7 |
| Australia | 6 |
| New Zealand | 6.5 |
So, now you know the minimum you need to achieve to pass the test, it’s time to start getting ready to pass.
How Can I Take IELTS Without Studying
Since you want to take the IELTS without studying (and really, who can blame you? No one likes to study for a test) and you’re not sure how to improve your language skills, practice is the answer.
Knowing where to start when improving your English skills can be tricky. There are many practice tests to find online for the IELTS, and most are free. Taking one of these tests can give you an idea of where your English skills are right now.
There are also online prep courses you can take to get ready. But the number one strategy for a successful IELTS test is to practice. You can join online forums to practice reading and writing and watch movies or YouTube videos to practice your listening skills.
Who knows? Maybe you’ll do one of the practice exams and find out your language skills are already good enough to get the minimum score. If so, hooray, and go celebrate!
What is The Hardest Part of IELTS
People who have already taken the test say that the listening section was the hardest part. This section tests your listening, memory, and comprehension skills.
With so many components to this section of the test, it’s no wonder most people report it’s the hardest. Not only do you need to listen to the information, but you need to remember it and answer questions about the content.
So, if you still have some work to do before taking the test, practising your skills in the weeks before the test will improve your speaking, reading, and listening. Practising every day can make it seem like you’re not even studying!
You can practice in different settings by engaging in conversations, and social situations, reading books and watching videos. Watching movies is a whole lot more fun than studying a textbook, and both strategies will help your English skills.
Also, since a portion of the test is audio, listening to podcasts or audiobooks will help you feel more comfortable with the test format, thus improving your score.
How Many Days Preparation is Required for IELTS
There is no hard and fast rule that says how many days you need to prepare for the test. With no prerequisites, you do not need any preparation days to take the test. Some preparation is recommended to get the score you want. As a general rule, 6 to 8 weeks of prep is recommended.
However, everyone’s English skills are different. Some people might need just a few days to get ready, while others might need a few weeks. It all depends on your individual level and how much time you’re willing to devote to studying.
Can I Prepare for IELTS in 2 Days
Absolutely! If you only have 2 days to prepare, that’s better than 0 days. Many people do just that.
However, if you want to give yourself the best chance of getting a high score, it is worth some time to familiarize yourself with the test format and techniques. This is especially true if your English skills are already good enough.
In just a few days, you can learn a lot about how to approach the different sections of the test and how to maximize your score. Of course, there is no guarantee that you will get a high score if you spend only 2 days getting ready for the IELTS. Still, you can give yourself the best chance possible by studying the test format and test-taking techniques.
Is Self Preparation Enough for IELTS
When it comes to self-preparing for the IELTS, no one answer fits everyone. If your English is already really strong, self-preparing may be enough to help you get the score you need.
However, if you’re worried your English is not strong enough, self-prep may not be enough. In the end, it really depends on the individual and where your skills are.
That being said, self-preparing is better than nothing. At the very least, it will give you a solid foundation to build. And, if you can supplement your self-preparation with extra help, such as taking an IELTS preparation course, you’ll be even more likely to succeed.
Five Strategies to prepare for the IELTS
Although it is possible to take the IELTS without any preparation, it is unlikely that you will achieve a high score. To receive the score you need, it is vital to prepare. Here are some tips for successfully completing the IELTS:
- Make a study plan and stick to it. Don’t try to study everything at once. Break down the material into manageable tasks and focus on one task at a time.
- Get plenty of practice. The more you practice, the better you will perform on test day. Try to find practice tests that simulate the actual IELTS test format.
- Use a variety of resources to prepare for the test. Don’t just rely on one resource. Try different resources such as books, online resources, and preparatory courses.
- Take care of yourself physically and mentally. Get plenty of sleep and exercise, and avoid stress in your life.
- Arrive at the test center early, so you have plenty of time to relax and prepare for the test.
Bonus – Practice, Practice, Practice
Get Ready for the IELTS
Some people may be able to pass the IELTS without any preparation. Still, your chances of achieving a passing score are much higher if you spend some time studying before taking the test.
By working on your reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills, you can give yourself the best chance of achieving the desired results. Luckily, plenty of online resources are available to help you prepare for your test – so why not get started today?
