If you are planning to immigrate to Canada, one of the biggest steps is achieving the required IELTS General Training (IELTS GT) score for Canadian PR.
After reading this blog, you will learn exactly how to prepare for IELTS General Training, what resources you need, and how to achieve your dream of Canadian Permanent Residency.
1- What is the IELTS General Training Test
IELTS General Training is required to meet the requirements stated by the Canadian Immigration Department to immigrate to Canada or apply for PR. Generally, most of the candidates need 8,7,7,7 in IELTS GT to successfully complete their immigration.
The IELTS GT has four modules:
- Listening
- Reading
- Writing
- Speaking
In terms of exam structure, it is slightly different than Academic IELTS, which you have taken for Canadian Study Visa (SDS or Non-SDS).
Differences between IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training
These are key differences between IELTS GT and IELTS Academic:
- First Difference: In IELTS GT, we have to write a letter (Formal or Informal) in the writing task 1 instead of a Report writing.
- Second Difference: In the IELTS General Training Reading module, we have five short passages instead of three long passages as in the Academic IELTS.
2- How to prepare for IELTS GT to achieve 8,7,7,7
To successfully pass the IELTS General training test with your desired score, the first step is to develop a proper study plan and then prepare accordingly. You can follow this study plan:
IELTS Study Plan to Get 8,7,7,7 in IELTS GT
- Week 1: Listening and Reading
Prepare for the IELTS Listening and Reading module, learn important tips for each question type of these two modules. Solve the IELTS General Training Practice Test and get familiar with exam conditions.
Further, learn about different grammatical structures (Compound, Compound-Complex, and Conditional) you will have to use in the IELTS Writing to get 7 Bands.
- Week 2: Writing and Speaking
Practice the Speaking and Writing module with a tutor to get higher scores. Without a tutor, it isn’t easy to prepare for these two modules, and you should not rely on fully AI-based evaluation platforms.
- Week 3 and 4: Practice all modules together
In the last two weeks, you should practice all four modules together like an actual exam. This will help you to get used to exam conditions and how to answer questions with full concentration within the time limit.
Resources you need for IELTS GT Preparation:
- Solve FREE IELTS Practice Test of General Training
- Read Sample IELTS Task 1
- Read Sample IELTS Task 2
- Learn helpful tips for IELTS Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
3- How to book the IELTS General Training Exam in Canada:
To book your exam, you can visit the IDP Canada website and book a computer-based or paper-based exam, whichever you find convenient.
Conclusion:
Preparing for IELTS General Training for Canadian PR requires a clear study plan, consistent practice, and the right resources. With the right guidance, you can achieve your target 8,7,7,7 score and move closer to your dream of Canadian immigration and Permanent Residency.
Start today by practicing with free IELTS General Training practice tests and build your path to success.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the minimum IELTS score required for Canadian PR?
Most Canadian immigration programs, including Express Entry (FSW, CEC, FST), require a minimum of CLB 7. In IELTS General Training, this usually means 6.0 in each skill. However, to be competitive, candidates aim for CLB 9 (8,7,7,7), which greatly increases CRS points and chances of selection.
2. Which IELTS test is required for Canadian PR: Academic or General Training?
For immigration and PR, Canada requires the IELTS General Training Test. The IELTS Academic Test is mainly required for study visas (SDS/Non-SDS programs) and not for PR.
3. Can I book the IELTS General Training exam in Canada online?
You can book your exam through the official IDP IELTS Canada website or the British Council (depending on test availability in your city). You can choose between computer-based IELTS or paper-based IELTS.
4. How long does it take to prepare for IELTS General Training?
On average, candidates need 4–6 weeks of focused preparation if their English is already intermediate. Beginners may need 2–3 months of consistent practice to achieve the required score.
