IELTS is a task-based test. It covers the four language skills (Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking). IELTS test takers receive individual scores for each of the four test sections. The average of the four provides the overall band score. We design each of the four sections carefully to focus on one particular skill. This makes it easier to control task difficulty across the many different tests produced each year. And, it results in a fairer test design when compared with tests that assess multiple skills simultaneously.
Organisations that rely on IELTS as proof of English language proficiency benefit from knowing that the score given for each section of the test is a clear and fair reflection of the test taker’s ability in that skill. This is particularly important in academic and professional settings where one skill is deemed to be more important than others. For example, in Canada nurses require to achieve a higher band score in their IELTS Speaking and Writing tests. On the other hand, teachers in Australia need a higher score in their IELTS Speaking and Listening tests.