If you are not sure whether you should sit the Academic format or General Training format of the IELTS test, there are a few basic guidelines to keep in mind. Generally speaking, select the IELTS Academic option if: you will be training at a university – undergraduate or postgraduate studies You should select the IELTS General Training format if: you are immigrating to an English-speaking country you are going to an English-speaking country to complete Secondary School training you will be doing non-academic work experience or training programs