IELTS, a hurdle that can be overcome!

IELTS, International English Language Testing IELTS is the high-stakes English test for study, migration or work. But for our case it is required for GMC registration. Minimum requirements are

GMC (General Medical Council) UK 
  • Overall score of 7.5
  • with minimum of 7 in each module
IMC (Irish Medical Council) Ireland 
  • Overall band score of 7.0
  • with Minimum of 6.5 in each module
In order to give IELTS there are two bodies that conduct it in Pakistan, British Council and AEO. Both are almost similar I will discuss the differences a bit later. IELTS has 4 modules writing, listening, speaking and hearing. Fees is approximately Rs 28,000 (varies slightly between the two). There are different types of IELTS what you need is an academic IELTS. IELTS take place at multiple times every year, you can find the dates on their websites British Council and AEO. Once you sign up for it you will be given some free material to practice which will be enough if you feel your English is good if not then you must practice with other materials by purchasing them online or free materials available on the internet. The maximum score for each module is 9 and therefore the maximum you can score is 9
  • Listening (30min) : You will listen to four recordings of native English speakers and then write your answers to a series of questions. In British council IELTS you will be given your separate wireless headphones so you can adjust volume according to you whereas in AEO the recordings will played on a speaker which can be difficult to hear correctly at times
  • Reading (60min) : You will have to read around 3 long texts and answer questions. The answer are usually hidden within these texts. A technique that one can utilize is to briefly go over the questions before reading the texts so when you are reading your mind will automatically concentrateoon areas which will help you solve questions.
  • Writing (60min) You will be asked to describe and explain data, graphs, charts or how something works or describe an object or event. You will then be asked to write an essay on any given topic, most likely your opinion on a certain subject  This is the module where many struggle  The only way out of this is to practice writing on different topics and get them checked by colleagues who have a good hold over the the English language there is no shortcut to it no matter what any person or institute says. You need to follow the format given in the sample essays. You don't need to have a very good vocabulary to get a 7 but you definitely need to have a good grasp over the grammar, spellings and must know how to express your mind.
  • Speaking (11-14min): The speaking component assesses your use of spoken English. In the 1st part the examiner will ask about you, your interests, family thing in general. 2nd part they will ask you to talk on a Certain topic. The key to score good in this module is to keep talking make the examiner hear as much as you can. Speak slowly, clearly and loudly otherwise your voice may be not be recorded properly. Speaking is usually on a different day it could be before or after the remaining 3 modules.
Advantages of giving IELTS with British Council 
  • Lowest test fee in Pakistan
  • Online Registration System for IELTS candidates
  • Unique Online Result Service
  • Free sample pack of candidates register online
  • Free self-study material to candidates registers online
  • Availability of test dates during the year
  • Toll-free number 0800 22000 for enquiries
  • Exist in many cities across Pakistan
Prepare well before going in for the exam and surely you will get through. Usually you get the results within 2-3 weeks. Remember the criteria required are set in stone you will not get your registration if you don't meet the criteria. Remember people may say AEO is easier or vice versa but there is no truth to it the difficulty level is the same, the structure is same. My preference would definitely be British council due to the above given advantages. 

Good luck! For further details and guidance please follow this blog and this page

1 comment:

  1. If some one is already having GMC registration via plab route then still does he need to show recent ielts ?

    ReplyDelete