5 Tips: Preparing for the Academic IELTS as a USRN Applicant

Are you preparing for the Academic IELTS exam as a Medliant USRN applicant? If you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed, this is completely normal! After all, the Academic IELTS does require preparation and practice to ensure that you meet the passing score of 6.5 bands overall and 7 bands in speaking. But don’t worry, here are 5 tips from other Academic IELTS passers that can help you receive a passing score!

1. Familiarize Yourself with the Exam Format: The Academic IELTS exam is divided into four sections: Listening (40 questions), Reading (40 questions), Writing (2 tasks), and Speaking (3 parts). Make sure you understand the format of each section and the types of questions you’ll be asked. There are many great resources online, including from the official IELTS website, ielts.org. This will help you prepare more effectively.

2. Practice, Practice, Practice: The best way to prepare for the Academic IELTS is to simply practice. You are encouraged to take practice tests, read sample questions, and do as many practice exercises as you can. This will help you become more familiar with the exam and give you a better chance of success. ielts.org offers sample test questions for you to familiarize yourself with.

3. Take Notes: As you practice, take notes on the topics and questions you find most difficult. This will help you focus your studying to allocate more time to sections of need, allowing you to become better prepared for the exam.

4. Prioritize Sleep: Make sure you plan to get enough sleep the night before you sit for the exam. A good night’s sleep and feeling rested will help you stay focused and alert throughout the exam.

5. Stay Calm: While the anticipation of the Academic IELTS can be a stressful, it’s important to stay calm and focused. The more you practice, the better prepared you will feel. Take deep breaths and remind yourself that you are prepared and will do great!

Remember, there are two different types of IELTS, Academic and General. Academic IELTS is the specific IELTS required to fulfill English proficiency requirements to work in the USA as an international Registered Nurse. There is no difference in the difficulty between the Academic and General IELTS exams, only the subject matter. Both exams are intended to take 2 hours and 45 minutes.

You will complete the listening, reading, and writing sections of the Academic IELTS all on the same day. The Speaking section may be taken up to and including one week before or after you sit for the other three sections of the exam.

You can schedule your Academic IELTS exam at ielts.org, which can be taken in 140 countries across the world. As part of Medliant’s NCLEX Sponsorship Program, Medliant will reimburse the cost of the Academic IELTS when you present proof of passing!

With the right amount of preparation and practice, you will do great!