Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
What ielts.org and IDP say
ielts.org says IELTS Academic is likely the right choice if you plan to study in a country where English is spoken, and that General Training is for migration and for training or studying below degree level (ielts.org). IDP says General Training is not 'easier' but has a different focus, and that you might be able to take it if you are not going to university (IDP).
| Your plan | Test ielts.org or IDP points to |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate or postgraduate degree | IELTS Academic |
| Professional registration | IELTS Academic (the body decides) |
| School, college or training below degree level | IELTS General Training |
| Migration or work | IELTS General Training |
How to check a university's rule
ielts.org says to check the entry requirements of your target institution before choosing a test (ielts.org), and its who accepts IELTS search lists organisations and their score requirements. IDP suggests checking with your education consultant (IDP). Once you have your result, see how to send IELTS results to universities.
Know your target? Check where you stand
Take a free AI-scored IELTS mock and see your score per skill before you book the real test. Free account, no card.
Take a free mock →Practise before you book: free IELTS mock test, IELTS reading practice, IELTS listening practice and IELTS speaking predictions.
If you have already booked the wrong one
Switching between Academic and General Training before the test is covered in can you change IELTS Academic to General after booking?.
Frequently asked questions
Is General Training an easier way into university?+
IDP says General Training is not 'easier'; it has a different focus. Universities usually set Academic for degree study.
What if the university just says 'IELTS'?+
Ask the admissions office which test it accepts. ielts.org says to check your institution's entry requirements before choosing.
Which test do colleges below degree level want?+
ielts.org says General Training suits training or study below degree level, but each college sets its own rule.
Are Listening and Speaking different between the two?+
No. ielts.org says Listening and Speaking are the same; Reading and Writing differ.
Keep reading
Related
- IELTS Academic vs General Training
- Who decides which IELTS test you need?
- How to send IELTS results to universities
- All 3112 guides
Guide updated on 30 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.
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