IELTS 101: Beginners IELTS guide for aspiring USRNs
Updated on December 28, 2022
What is IELTS? For those unfamiliar with this test, we must highlight that it is a test that can assist you in studying or working in the country of your choosing, like in the US.
The IELTS, or International English Language Testing System, is the world's most widely used language competence test, evaluating the English proficiency of test-takers in four areas: reading, writing, speaking and listening.
Non-native English speakers who wish to become US Registered Nurses must pass the IELTS exam to complete their Visa Screen application, a mandatory document for the occupational visa or immigration process to obtain a visa to live and work in the United States.
If you are an aspiring USRN still unfamiliar with the IELTS, this is the right content for you. This article will give you a better understanding of the IELTS test and go over other important information you should know before taking this exam.
What are the different types of IELTS tests?
IELTS is divided into two types: Academic and General Training. Both examinations evaluate your listening, reading, writing, and speaking abilities in English. All IELTS test takers will take the same Listening and Speaking tests but different Reading and Writing tests. That is why you must prepare for the right type of IELTS test.
IELTS Academic Test
The IELTS Academic test is intended for studying at a university (higher education) or in an English-speaking setting. IELTS Academic can also be used for professional registration.
The test determines whether or not you are prepared to begin studying in English. It contains vocabulary that is commonly used in academic settings.
IELTS General Training test
The IELTS General Training test is appropriate for people applying to study at a lower level than a bachelor's degree. An English-speaking school or college falls under this category. It can also be used for work experience or other types of training in the workplace.
Which type of IELTS test a foreign-educated nurse must take?
Academic test is the IELTS requirement for USA nurses, mainly for non-native English registered nurses. It is required to apply for higher education or professional registration in an English-speaking country. This exam version is necessary for various medical positions, including doctors, nurses, and pharmacists.
What are the IELTS sections on which your English proficiency is tested?
IELTS will grade your English language skills based on four key aspects of a language: speaking, writing, reading, and listening.
Listening
You will listen to the audio material once and then write your answer on the answer sheet. You'll need to understand the main ideas and information, follow the conversation, and recognize the speaker's viewpoints and attitudes in the audio.
Reading
You will read three distinct paragraphs and then respond to questions about them. You must understand the passages' theme, primary concepts, and details and follow the dialogue and recognize the speaker's opinions and attitudes.
Writing
Your writing skills will be evaluated, including your ability to organize ideas, use a diverse vocabulary, and reply appropriately. Your score will be reduced if you have poor handwriting and grammar.
Speaking
It will be done as an interview or a conversation. You'll be scored on your ability to communicate knowledge about topics and experiences by answering various questions that will be discussed aloud. Your ability to organize your thoughts, articulate your viewpoints, speak eloquently, and analyze and discuss issues raised by the examiner will also be evaluated.