Preciosa: 1:03am On Mar 17, 2024 |
Thank you for sharing your knowledge here.
Well, I already booked my test, paper-based. Will ielts automatically pick a date for my speaking test?
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Lastbornbuns: 6:43pm On Apr 02, 2024 |
Test Experience
I took my ielts general test in March, computer based at British Council PortHarcourt. The staff were very friendly and nice. The environment is peaceful and quiet and they had water dispenser with disposable cups.
My speaking test went well enough. Although the video call was lagging because of network. I was so tensed and rambled a lot (imo) but I got a 7.5 in speaking. My examiner was very nice and patient. Some people got rude examiners. One particular lady was a bit mean and had zero patience. My heart was beating so fast. I didn't expect it to reach my turn so quickly but once I started speaking, I got settled.
My listening was okay. I made sure to focus on the audio. We had individual headsets and I reduced the volume on mine a bit to prevent headaches. The screen light was very bright. The audio clip wasn't too fast paced. Though the clip (where one speaker gives a lesson) tried to confuse me. There was one particular question that I changed the answer 3 times. Luckily, I changed it back to the right answer (my original answer) just when my time finished. I got a 9.0 in listening.
Reading was okay. My score here actually shocked me. I expected more. I finished all the questions in less than 30 minutes. I kept reviewing and reviewing and slept a bit (just closed my eyes and tried to refresh my mind) for around 20 minutes then I reviewed again. I got "paragraph matching" questions and flowchart. I got an 8.0 in reading.
Writing.. hmm. I expected a lot more from writing. Time was a serious problem because I spent more than the advised 20mins on the first one and started panicking. I thought I wouldn't have much time for the second essay. The second essay was difficult to begin. I kept thinking, "how am I supposed to write this? What type of prompt is this one now?" I looked at my time and just typed a few sentences (looking at a blank screen is so demoralising  ). I actually finished the entire essay before i could think of a suitable way to paraphrase the topic (the intent/purpose of writing). I got an 8.0 in writing. Please always check for grammatical errors. I never made an error when practicing but come and see mistakes on that day. Like say na set up.
Overall, I got a band 8 C1 level. I didn't actively prepare per se. I was studying for Gre last year so did a lot of reading and writing. Also learnt words. All on Gregmat. When I booked my test, BC gave me access to GEL ielts (Guided E-learning) and acces to their "Ready Platform" didn't use it much because I had to go to nysc camp a month before my test date. A week to my test, I booked writing review sessions with prepmewell. My tutor said they expected a 9.0.
I also went through ieltsadvantage and ieltsliz that same week. Watched some videos, answered some questions.
One thing to note is this: don't restrict yourself when it comes to the writing section. There's no where BC or IDP says your essay must be in 3 paragraphs or if you're asked "not less than 150", don't write more than 170 or something like that. My 1st task was more than 4 paragraphs. I was already pressed for time and counting words (the computer does it if computer-based) or paragraphs wasn't something I wanted to do. I ended up writing almost or even a bit more than 200 for the 150. So don't let it be another issue for you. Also, the exam fatigue is very real. I was itching to run home by the time the writing started and the way the test is structured, even if you finish before time, you can't move on till the time ends. Perhaps it's because my speaking test was done same day so I had to be at the test center for the entire day but I was restless towards the end.
Finally, I would always advise computer based where its feasible. The computer based is not same question type for all. I had noticed that people mostly get lower scores in listening in paper-based because some centers blast the audio through a central speaker. And I couldn't wait 13 days to receive my result. Anxiety would've finished me.
Also, paper based can be distracting. You might be looking around and get lost somewhere but computer based, it's just you and your computer and the desks are partitioned. I also got the feeling like the computer camera might be on so.. gotta be on best behaviour and maintain eye (there's how you'll look down and it'll be like you're looking at "expo"  ). The sound of typing wasn't a distraction to me. My test center is just too beautiful for words. So clean and quiet. Once you enter, you just start whispering  it's very very calm.
17 Likes 2 Shares |
SemperFid: 6:19am On Apr 05, 2024 |
Is there anybody waiting for results today?
What time does it come out?
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Bibitayo2: 12:17pm On Apr 23, 2024 |
Good morning.
Please, my exam is on Saturday but I live in Oyo state and the local government election is on that day.
Should I send an email to inform them about the restricted movement on that day or do you think they will send me an email about it?
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Sultty(m): 6:53pm On Apr 23, 2024 |
Bibitayo2:
Good morning.
Please, my exam is on Saturday but I live in Oyo state and the local government election is on that day.
Should I send an email to inform them about the restricted movement on that day or do you think they will send me an email about it?
if the exam centre is at oyo state, u can if it will be shifted but if not, simply reschedule
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Bibitayo2: 10:24pm On Apr 23, 2024 |
Thank you.
They sent me an email this afternoon.
Sultty: if the exam centre is at oyo state, u can if it will be shifted but if not, simply reschedule
2 Likes |
Jandminded: 12:06am On Apr 24, 2024 |
Lastbornbuns: Test Experience
I took my ielts general test in March, computer based at British Council PortHarcourt. The staff were very friendly and nice. The environment is peaceful and quiet and they had water dispenser with disposable cups.
My speaking test went well enough. Although the video call was lagging because of network. I was so tensed and rambled a lot (imo) but I got a 7.5 in speaking. My examiner was very nice and patient. Some people got rude examiners. One particular lady was a bit mean and had zero patience. My heart was beating so fast. I didn't expect it to reach my turn so quickly but once I started speaking, I got settled.
My listening was okay. I made sure to focus on the audio. We had individual headsets and I reduced the volume on mine a bit to prevent headaches. The screen light was very bright. The audio clip wasn't too fast paced. Though the clip (where one speaker gives a lesson) tried to confuse me. There was one particular question that I changed the answer 3 times. Luckily, I changed it back to the right answer (my original answer) just when my time finished. I got a 9.0 in listening.
Reading was okay. My score here actually shocked me. I expected more. I finished all the questions in less than 30 minutes. I kept reviewing and reviewing and slept a bit (just closed my eyes and tried to refresh my mind) for around 20 minutes then I reviewed again. I got "paragraph matching" questions and flowchart. I got an 8.0 in reading.
Writing.. hmm. I expected a lot more from writing. Time was a serious problem because I spent more than the advised 20mins on the first one and started panicking. I thought I wouldn't have much time for the second essay. The second essay was difficult to begin. I kept thinking, "how am I supposed to write this? What type of prompt is this one now?" I looked at my time and just typed a few sentences (looking at a blank screen is so demoralising ). I actually finished the entire essay before i could think of a suitable way to paraphrase the topic (the intent/purpose of writing). I got an 8.0 in writing. Please always check for grammatical errors. I never made an error when practicing but come and see mistakes on that day. Like say na set up.
Overall, I got a band 8 C1 level. I didn't actively prepare per se. I was studying for Gre last year so did a lot of reading and writing. Also learnt words. All on Gregmat. When I booked my test, BC gave me access to GEL ielts (Guided E-learning) and acces to their "Ready Platform" didn't use it much because I had to go to nysc camp a month before my test date. A week to my test, I booked writing review sessions with prepmewell. My tutor said they expected a 9.0.
I also went through ieltsadvantage and ieltsliz that same week. Watched some videos, answered some questions.
One thing to note is this: don't restrict yourself when it comes to the writing section. There's no where BC or IDP says your essay must be in 3 paragraphs or if you're asked "not less than 150", don't write more than 170 or something like that. My 1st task was more than 4 paragraphs. I was already pressed for time and counting words (the computer does it if computer-based) or paragraphs wasn't something I wanted to do. I ended up writing almost or even a bit more than 200 for the 150. So don't let it be another issue for you. Also, the exam fatigue is very real. I was itching to run home by the time the writing started and the way the test is structured, even if you finish before time, you can't move on till the time ends. Perhaps it's because my speaking test was done same day so I had to be at the test center for the entire day but I was restless towards the end.
Finally, I would always advise computer based where its feasible. The computer based is not same question type for all. I had noticed that people mostly get lower scores in listening in paper-based because some centers blast the audio through a central speaker. And I couldn't wait 13 days to receive my result. Anxiety would've finished me.
Also, paper based can be distracting. You might be looking around and get lost somewhere but computer based, it's just you and your computer and the desks are partitioned. I also got the feeling like the computer camera might be on so.. gotta be on best behaviour and maintain eye (there's how you'll look down and it'll be like you're looking at "expo" ). The sound of typing wasn't a distraction to me. My test center is just too beautiful for words. So clean and quiet. Once you enter, you just start whispering it's very very calm.
Nice one.
Please what are the requirements to for IELTS?
I heard of international port, do you know if NIN can be used?
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Sultty(m): 9:57am On Apr 24, 2024 |
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adewumiopeyemi(m): 11:02am On Apr 24, 2024 |
Hi bro I will like to ask like how many weeks or months was the result release I am also facing the same issue curently and this have make me Fall into depression because of this issue
Wonder1844:
Good day all.
My IELTS result due to be released on 10th Nov, 2023 was withheld. Up till now I haven't heard from them.
I called them again today ask if I can for another test, the person that attended to me said I can get penalized for doing that. Staying that I have to do is wait till they conclude their investigations..
I already got ission I want to use the result for. So please I want to ask if should sit for IELTS IDP since the one withheld is from British council.
Thanks
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Lastbornbuns: 3:39pm On Apr 24, 2024 |
Jandminded:
Nice one.
Please what are the requirements to for IELTS?
I heard of international port, do you know if NIN can be used?
It can but try to use international port because sometimes, nin might cause small wahala at the test center. The guy that came with his nin at my test center had to reschedule. His own wasn't accepted although he said it was accepted when he ed.
I think I've heard something like there's an nin card that comes with a chip or so.. that might fly but I'm not really sure. Just use your port if you have it.
1 Like |
Meticu99: 11:55pm On Apr 24, 2024 |
For those looking to take the IELTS, I suggest you google Mafit Study Center. Their fees are cheaper than both the British Council and IDP. Don't know how hey do it and they give 1 month physical classes for free as well. It's worth checking out
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Snowmax: 7:04am On Apr 25, 2024 |
Pls am sorry for posting this here...can any guru here help solve this

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Sultty(m): 10:06am On Apr 25, 2024 |
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Vectoryoko: 1:15am On May 12, 2024 |
Hello! My IELTS exam is on the 25th of this month. Can anyone here recommend studying material? Thanks.
Also, if you intend to write this exam any moment from now, can you please signify? Maybe we can help each other in any way.
1 Like |
Trendy247: 10:59pm On May 16, 2024 |
My sister scored L7, R7, S6.5, W6.5
She needed atleast a 7.0 in speaking, so she decided to apply for speaking to be remarked on April 27.
She just got her result today, Speaking was increased to 7.5
4 Likes |
Bibitayo2: 3:24am On May 26, 2024 |
.
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Aliyu333: 8:48am On Jun 24, 2024 |
My result came in: IELTS ACADEMIC
I made some terrible mistakes on that day in writing. I spent 40 minutes on task 1 and this included the 10 minutes I wasted in the restroom. As a result, I had only 20 minutes to do task 2 (which is the major part). I wrote 3 paragraphs with no time to proofread, expand my points nor write a conclusion. I was scared I would score a 6.
Listening; I was hearing the test conversation of those beside me and that really distracted me. Listening was supposed to be my strongest area.
Speaking: my major issue is the filler words "You know?". I definitely need to work on that, otherwise I speak well.
Reading: I used the practice test by british council, and I never scored up to a 7. I scored 6.5 on all 5 mock test that I did. So I was hoping to a get a 7 at most in the writing, but fortunately I found the actual test to be way easier than the mock tests. This is thanks to the scanning and skimming skills I had improved on and the time I managed well.
Overall I had a better score than I fear I would.
Listening 7.5
Reading 8
Writing 7
Speaking 8
5 Likes 
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ajaseramovity22: 1:53pm On Jun 24, 2024 |
Ok yeah
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chinchum(m): 12:58am On Jun 25, 2024 |
Snowmax:
Pls am sorry for posting this here...can any guru here help solve this
add all 3 numbers and divide by 2
Modified post.
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newhere1234: 9:53am On Jun 26, 2024 |
chinchum:
10+2-4-1 =3
this method doesn't work for the first example, can you please explain how you arrived at the answer? im just curious, thanks a lot.
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chinchum(m): 2:59pm On Jun 26, 2024 |
newhere1234:
this method doesn't work for the first example, can you please explain how you arrived at the answer? im just curious, thanks a lot.
add all numbers and divide by the 2 or in the alternative divide by the last number.
Division by 2 is more plausible.
Apologies about not reviewing it deeply earlier,I was casual, I thought it was too late.
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newhere1234: 6:37pm On Jun 26, 2024 |
chinchum:
add all numbers and divide by the 2 or in the alternative divide by the last number.
Division by 2 is more plausible.
Apologies about not reviewing it deeply earlier,I was casual, I thought it was too late.
thanks a lot, seems like dividing by 2 is the right way.
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jogs1999(m): 10:32pm On Jun 28, 2024 |
Good evening all,
Where can I see the Ielts reference number on the Ielts result
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Aliyu333: 8:29am On Jun 29, 2024 |
jogs1999:
Good evening all,
Where can I see the Ielts reference number on the Ielts result
at the bottom right, you will see a Test Report Form Number, that is it.
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jogs1999(m): 10:30am On Jun 29, 2024 |
Aliyu333:
at the bottom right, you will see a Test Report Form Number, that is it.
Thanks very much for the response.
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DaTruths: 9:12pm On Jul 06, 2024 |
Aliyu333:
My result came in: IELTS ACADEMIC
I made some terrible mistakes on that day in writing. I spent 40 minutes on task 1 and this included the 10 minutes I wasted in the restroom. As a result, I had only 20 minutes to do task 2 (which is the major part). I wrote 3 paragraphs with no time to proofread, expand my points nor write a conclusion. I was scared I would score a 6.
Listening; I was hearing the test conversation of those beside me and that really distracted me. Listening was supposed to be my strongest area.
Speaking: my major issue is the filler words "You know?". I definitely need to work on that, otherwise I speak well.
Reading: I used the practice test by british council, and I never scored up to a 7. I scored 6.5 on all 5 mock test that I did. So I was hoping to a get a 7 at most in the writing, but fortunately I found the actual test to be way easier than the mock tests. This is thanks to the scanning and skimming skills I had improved on and the time I managed well.
Overall I had a better score than I fear I would.
Listening 7.5
Reading 8
Writing 7
Speaking 8
How long did it take you to practice, and was it your first time writing ielts?
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Aliyu333: 9:46pm On Jul 06, 2024 |
DaTruths:
How long did it take you to practice, and was it your first time writing ielts?
it was my very first time. 2 weeks, I just used the mock test on british council that is usually accessable for free after you pay for the exam.
2 Likes |
MrNice04(m): 4:18pm On Jul 12, 2024 |
Lastbornbuns:
It can but try to use international port because sometimes, nin might cause small wahala at the test center. The guy that came with his nin at my test center had to reschedule. His own wasn't accepted although he said it was accepted when he ed.
I think I've heard something like there's an nin card that comes with a chip or so.. that might fly but I'm not really sure. Just use your port if you have it.
nice please how did you do your ielts registration pls...
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Lastbornbuns: 8:15pm On Jul 12, 2024 |
MrNice04:
nice please how did you do your ielts registration pls...
On the British Council website
1 Like |
kumbhuru: 7:34am On Jul 13, 2024 |
kumbhuru:
My result is out, and I achieved an overall band score of 7.5. Although I could have done better if I hadn't faced distractions towards the exam, this score is sufficient for my needs.
I started my preparation in August by reading everything from page 1 to the end of this group to familiarize myself with the recommended materials. I also read the testimonies of others on Nairaland by searching different threads.
For writing, start with everything on www.ieltsliz.com. Additionally, get the book from IELTS Buddy, which is available online for free. Practice with those resources and then move on to the past questions from Cambridge. If you don't have anyone to review your essays, use ChatGPT to mark, score, and correct your work. You can Google how to use ChatGPT for IELTS Writing.
For speaking and listening, you only need the Cambridge materials. Google or find YouTube videos with the speaking/listening audio books and practice with them. Record yourself while speaking and make corrections if you don't have a friend to practice with. Get accustomed to various accents by watching podcasts, although I didn't do this due to time constraints. Those used to watching foreign films typically won't have issues with understanding the listening section. Listening requires attention and presence of mind, so if you struggle with concentration, work on it. Constant practice will help. Speaking and listening should be bonuses; no one should fail these sections, as they help boost your overall band score.
Reading seems like a hard nut to crack due to time constraints. Practice with Cambridge materials. There are books on strategies for various question types available online; get one and stick to it. Practice by question type and master or create strategies for yourself. You don't need to time yourself while learning strategies; only start timing once you are familiar with all question types and strategies involved.
Visit these YouTube channels and immerse yourself in their content: FastTrack IELTS, IELTS Jack, E2 Preparation, and IELTS Liz.
In short, there are no shortcuts; you have to put in the work. It's better to use the money you would spend on tutorials to buy data and immerse yourself in YouTube. Many of these tutorial providers are simply looking to make money and have never taken the IELTS themselves, except for the trusted ones you may know.
IELTS is all about strategy and formula. Learn these, and you will be surprised at how well you can do.
Finally, if your English is weak in of spelling, grammar, and basic language skills, start there. Someone with poor spelling will struggle with listening and writing. Someone with poor lexis, structure, and basic English skills will find it challenging. It's not a bad idea to brush up on primary and secondary school materials before attempting the IELTS if you fall into this category. Wishing you success.
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laurelbae(f): 6:35am On Jul 17, 2024 |
Congratulations , please I am in PH too.
Torn between choosing computer based & paper
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laurelbae(f): 6:37am On Jul 17, 2024 |
Congratulations again.
Pls where in PH did u write.
Do u advice I take computer based, really don't want to make mistakes.
Thanks
Lastbornbuns: Test Experience
I took my ielts general test in March, computer based at British Council PortHarcourt. The staff were very friendly and nice. The environment is peaceful and quiet and they had water dispenser with disposable cups.
My speaking test went well enough. Although the video call was lagging because of network. I was so tensed and rambled a lot (imo) but I got a 7.5 in speaking. My examiner was very nice and patient. Some people got rude examiners. One particular lady was a bit mean and had zero patience. My heart was beating so fast. I didn't expect it to reach my turn so quickly but once I started speaking, I got settled.
My listening was okay. I made sure to focus on the audio. We had individual headsets and I reduced the volume on mine a bit to prevent headaches. The screen light was very bright. The audio clip wasn't too fast paced. Though the clip (where one speaker gives a lesson) tried to confuse me. There was one particular question that I changed the answer 3 times. Luckily, I changed it back to the right answer (my original answer) just when my time finished. I got a 9.0 in listening.
Reading was okay. My score here actually shocked me. I expected more. I finished all the questions in less than 30 minutes. I kept reviewing and reviewing and slept a bit (just closed my eyes and tried to refresh my mind) for around 20 minutes then I reviewed again. I got "paragraph matching" questions and flowchart. I got an 8.0 in reading.
Writing.. hmm. I expected a lot more from writing. Time was a serious problem because I spent more than the advised 20mins on the first one and started panicking. I thought I wouldn't have much time for the second essay. The second essay was difficult to begin. I kept thinking, "how am I supposed to write this? What type of prompt is this one now?" I looked at my time and just typed a few sentences (looking at a blank screen is so demoralising ). I actually finished the entire essay before i could think of a suitable way to paraphrase the topic (the intent/purpose of writing). I got an 8.0 in writing. Please always check for grammatical errors. I never made an error when practicing but come and see mistakes on that day. Like say na set up.
Overall, I got a band 8 C1 level. I didn't actively prepare per se. I was studying for Gre last year so did a lot of reading and writing. Also learnt words. All on Gregmat. When I booked my test, BC gave me access to GEL ielts (Guided E-learning) and acces to their "Ready Platform" didn't use it much because I had to go to nysc camp a month before my test date. A week to my test, I booked writing review sessions with prepmewell. My tutor said they expected a 9.0.
I also went through ieltsadvantage and ieltsliz that same week. Watched some videos, answered some questions.
One thing to note is this: don't restrict yourself when it comes to the writing section. There's no where BC or IDP says your essay must be in 3 paragraphs or if you're asked "not less than 150", don't write more than 170 or something like that. My 1st task was more than 4 paragraphs. I was already pressed for time and counting words (the computer does it if computer-based) or paragraphs wasn't something I wanted to do. I ended up writing almost or even a bit more than 200 for the 150. So don't let it be another issue for you. Also, the exam fatigue is very real. I was itching to run home by the time the writing started and the way the test is structured, even if you finish before time, you can't move on till the time ends. Perhaps it's because my speaking test was done same day so I had to be at the test center for the entire day but I was restless towards the end.
Finally, I would always advise computer based where its feasible. The computer based is not same question type for all. I had noticed that people mostly get lower scores in listening in paper-based because some centers blast the audio through a central speaker. And I couldn't wait 13 days to receive my result. Anxiety would've finished me.
Also, paper based can be distracting. You might be looking around and get lost somewhere but computer based, it's just you and your computer and the desks are partitioned. I also got the feeling like the computer camera might be on so.. gotta be on best behaviour and maintain eye (there's how you'll look down and it'll be like you're looking at "expo" ). The sound of typing wasn't a distraction to me. My test center is just too beautiful for words. So clean and quiet. Once you enter, you just start whispering it's very very calm.
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