Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
What the official pages say
IDP's test menus describe General Training as the test students applying to high schools or vocational training programmes in English-speaking countries might need (IDP Australia). IDP's General Training page says it suits people applying to study below degree level, including at an English-speaking school or college (IDP), and ielts.org says the same for training or study below degree level (ielts.org).
| Source | What it says |
|---|---|
| ielts.org | General Training is for migration and for training or studying below degree level |
| IDP | Suitable for study below degree level, including an English-speaking school or college |
| IDP | Students applying to high schools or vocational programmes might need it |
| ielts.org | Check entry requirements of your target institution before choosing |
What General Training tests
ielts.org says General Training assesses everyday English for social and workplace situations (ielts.org). Reading moves from notices and timetables to work texts and one longer general-interest text (ielts.org), and Writing Task 1 is a letter (ielts.org). Listening and Speaking are the same as in Academic.
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Younger candidates
School applicants are often under 18. Test-day rules for younger candidates and the minimum age are covered in IELTS rules for under-18s and IELTS eligibility and age limit.
Frequently asked questions
Do all high schools abroad accept IELTS General Training?+
Not necessarily. IDP says students might need it; the school decides which test and score it accepts.
Is General Training easier for a teenager?+
IDP says General Training is not 'easier'; it has a different focus on everyday and workplace English.
Can a school ask for IELTS Academic instead?+
Yes. ielts.org says to check your institution's entry requirements before choosing.
Where can I practise General Training Reading?+
Try our General Training Reading practice, which follows the three-section format.
Keep reading
Related
- IELTS rules for under-18s on test day
- IELTS for vocational or trade courses
- General Training Reading practice
- 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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