International English Language Testing System (Academic)
Administered by British Council, IDP Education, and Cambridge Assessment English
The most widely accepted English language proficiency test for healthcare professionals seeking to work internationally. Most UK, Australian, and Canadian health regulators require IELTS Academic scores as part of registration.
Quick Facts
Format
4 sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking
Duration
2 hours 45 minutes (Listening, Reading, Writing) plus a separate Speaking test
Passing Score
Healthcare requirements: Overall 7.0 to 7.5 with minimum 7.0 in each band (varies by regulator)
Valid For
2 years from the test date
Cost
N280,000 to N315,000 (varies by centre and test format)
Cost in Naira
N280,000 to N315,000
Test Centres in Nigeria
- British Council Lagos
- British Council Abuja
- British Council Port Harcourt
- IDP Lagos
- IDP Abuja
What is Tested
Listening
4 recorded conversations and monologues. 40 questions. Tests ability to understand main ideas, specific details, opinions, and attitudes.
Reading
3 long academic passages with tasks. 40 questions. Tests reading skills including skimming, scanning, identifying arguments, and understanding logical structure.
Writing
Task 1: Describe/summarise visual information (graph, table, chart) in at least 150 words. Task 2: Write an essay responding to a point of view or problem in at least 250 words.
Speaking
Face-to-face interview with an examiner. Part 1: Introduction and interview. Part 2: Long turn (speak for 2 minutes on a topic). Part 3: Discussion.
How to Register
- 1
Visit the British Council or IDP website for Nigeria.
- 2
Create an account and select 'IELTS Academic' as your test type.
- 3
Choose between paper-based or computer-delivered format.
- 4
Select your preferred test centre and date.
- 5
Pay the exam fee (N280,000 to N315,000 depending on centre).
- 6
Upload a passport photograph and provide identification details.
- 7
Receive your confirmation with test venue and time details.
- 8
Attend the test with your valid international passport.
Tips for Nigerian Candidates
Computer-delivered IELTS gives results in 3 to 5 days versus 13 days for paper-based. Choose wisely based on your deadline.
British Council Lagos (Adeola Odeku, VI) and Abuja centres are the largest and most established.
The Speaking test may be on a different day from the other three sections. Check your schedule carefully.
Writing is consistently the lowest-scoring band for Nigerian candidates. Invest in writing preparation specifically.
Avoid memorised phrases or 'templates' that sound unnatural. Examiners penalise obviously rehearsed answers.
Register 4 to 6 weeks before your preferred date. Popular dates (especially Saturdays) fill up fast.
Many health regulators now accept OET as an alternative. Consider OET if you struggle with general academic IELTS topics.
IELTS scores expire after 2 years. Time your exam so the score is still valid when you submit your registration application.
Preparation Tips
Writing is the hardest section for most Nigerian candidates. Start practising early and get your essays marked.
For healthcare registration, you typically need 7.0 in every band. One weak band can fail you.
Listen to BBC podcasts, NHS health talks, and academic lectures daily to improve listening skills.
Read academic journals and newspaper editorials to build reading speed and comprehension.
Practise writing under timed conditions. Task 2 essay structure: introduction, 2 body paragraphs, conclusion.
For speaking, practise thinking aloud on random topics. Fluency and coherence matter more than accent.
Take at least 2 full mock tests under exam conditions before the real exam.
Recommended Resources
Cost Breakdown
Exam Fee
N280,000 to N315,000 (varies by centre and test format)
In Naira
N280,000 to N315,000
Who Needs This Exam
All healthcare professionals seeking registration in the UK, Australia, Canada, or New Zealand
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Exam fees, visa costs, and requirements change frequently. The information on this page was last reviewed in April 2026. Always confirm fees and requirements directly with the official body before making payments or decisions.
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