Understanding the basic
IELTS Life Skills is an English test for people who need to prove their English speaking and listening ability as part of a visa or immigration application.
The tasks in the test are based on everyday subjects such as work, transport, and the weather, which reflect the experience of communicating in an English-speaking country. It is a single test covering speaking and listening skills.
What are the types of test?
IELTS Life Skills is available at three levels:
- IELTS Life Skills – A1 Speaking and Listening
- IELTS Life Skills – A2 Speaking and Listening (offered in the UK only)*
- IELTS Life Skills – B1 Speaking and Listening
Which one should I choose?
IELTS Life Skills A1 A1 on the CEFR / ESOL Entry 1 on NQF | IELTS Life Skills A1 is for people who need to prove their English speaking and listening skills at Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) level A1 as part of their application to UKVI for Family, Spouse, or Partner visa. Components: Speaking and Listening |
IELTS Life Skills B1 B1 on the CEFR / ESOL Entry 3 on the NQF | IELTS Life Skills B1 is for people who need to prove their English speaking and listening skills at Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) level B1 as part of their application to UKVI for citizenship/settlement. Components: Speaking and Listening |

What are the components of the test?
Life Skills tests have two main parts. In the first part of the test, you will be expected to ask and answer questions on familiar topics. The second part of the test is a combined listening and speaking task.
All Life Skills test-takers will be asked to complete a task played on a CD. When you complete the task, you’ll be assessed on your ability to listen for both the general meaning and detail. You will say your answers, although you can make notes on paper while you listen to the CD.
Following this task, you will be asked to discuss a theme related to what you have listened to on the CD.
For people taking the IELTS Life Skills B1 level, there is an additional task where you will plan an activity with the other test taker.
How will I be assessed?
You will be assessed on four key language skills:
- obtaining information
- conveying information
- speaking to communicate
- engaging in discussion
At times during the test, you will be allowed to take notes to prepare your answers. The examiner will not mark your notes – only your speaking and listening skills will be marked.
Why do I take the test with another test taker?
IELTS Life Skills tests how well you can communicate with other people in everyday English. The best way to test these skills is to pair you with another candidate at a similar level of ability, so you can show how well you can use English to communicate and engage in discussion with others.
How long does the test take?
Life Skills tests are completed in one short session:
- IELTS Life Skills – A1 Speaking and Listening: 16 –18 minutes
- IELTS Life Skills – A2 Speaking and Listening: 20 minutes
- IELTS Life Skills – B1 Speaking and Listening: 22 minutes.
Results
Test results are normally available within six (6) days of your test divided into pass or fail.
Let’s watch this video to grasp an overall insight into the IELTS test:-