The complete guide to IELTS preparation with advice, strategies and practice for all four parts of the test
You can undertake a 7-day free trial and then decide whether you wish to pay to continue studying the course.
The British Council has joined up with Future Learn to offer free Understanding IELT courses.
Why join the course?
Anyone thinking about taking an English language test, such as IELTS, will find this course particularly useful, but all English language learners will benefit from the tips and advice given in the course.
The course focuses on the IELTS test (International English Language Testing System). IELTS is the world's most popular English language test for higher education and global migration. IELTS is accepted by over 10,000 organisations worldwide including universities, employers, immigration authorities and professional bodies. Over 3 million IELTS tests were taken globally last year.
This course will take you through each stage of the IELTS test - reading, writing, speaking and listening. At each stage there will be advice from our video tutor and a team of experienced IELTS educators. You will also be asked to share your experiences, tips and opinions with other learners.
By the end of the Understanding IELTS course, you will:
- be familiar with all parts of the IELTS test
- have some useful tips to help you achieve your IELTS goals
- understand how the IELTS test is assessed
- have an opportunity to have your written and spoken English assessed by other learners
The British Council has over 80 years' experience in English language teaching and assessment and delivers IELTS tests in more than 100 countries. The course draws on the British Council's expertise in online learning.
You can find out more about this course by visiting the Future Learn Website Understanding IELTS Page.
![Emily]()
The website and materials were easy to navigate and the Facebook group gave me extra reassurance and support.
The tutors were supportive, patient and most importantly motivated me to carry on when I found it tough. I would highly recommend them to anyone needing to gain an extra qualification to achieve their dream career. Emily
![Yannick]()
The learning materials were excellent and they exceeded my expectations. I would like to thank my family and the tutors for their amazing support.
I am happy to say to have secured a place to study a Nursing Degree this September. I cannot recommend them enough. Yannick
![John]()
The course is excellently written with information perfectly explained for those who have been out of education.
I completed mine whilst working full time, undergoing several overseas military deployments in support of the COVID pandemic. I could not have done this without them, my tutors were with me every step of the way! John
![Richard]()
Support of tutors, & the wider student community were fundamental in enabling me to overcome adversity. The peer support of fellow students proved a wonderful resource. People of all ages & backgrounds united in their desire to study & self-develop, quick to offer help & encouragement. So I became active in supporting others through the Facebook Group. Richard
![Sam]()
I have dyslexia. They suited all my needs. It was flexible, affordable, and the modules offered would provide me with the fundamental basics to study a Law degree.
They did more than help me get into my dream Russell Group university studying Law. The whole experience finally made me feel academically worthy. Sam
![Aaliya]()
Tutors and staff have been fantastic in helping me achieve the grades I need, as well as any other situations I needed support with.
I applied to 2 universities and have received conditional offers from both.
I have achieved more credits than the offer requires, it wouldn't have been possible without them. Aaliya
![Mehluli]()
I loved the flexibility that comes with the course and the outstanding tutors.
I have since been offered a place from two universities to study a BSc in Adult Nursing.
It is in this regard that I strongly recommend them without hesitation for any person who would like to reboot their career. Mehluli
![Beth]()
I was very nervous about beginning my studies as I thought that Access to HE Diplomas were aimed at mature students, being 17 at the time of beginning my studies. But I was so wrong!
The Diploma is for anyone wanting to enter higher education. The staff, and my tutors especially, couldn't have been more accommodating and supportive. Beth
![Victoria]()
From day one I found my tutors to be incredibly friendly, supportive and accessible. They encourage independent learning, but are always there to give guidance and answer questions of any kind.
The learning materials are brilliant; extremely thorough and logically laid out in topics and sub-topics, so you move smoothly through. Victoria
![Sean]()
The materials were easy to follow. I received advice from others via the Facebook page & from my personal tutor, who was always so quick to answer any questions. During the modules, I developed my research methods & even my English improved. I am far more confident in finding the pros & cons of every theory. I now feel I am in a far better position & I am currently enrolled on an LLB Qualifying Law degree. Sean
![Fanny]()
They stood out for me because of their flexibility and affordability.
Enrolling to study remotely for a science course, was overwhelmingly nerve-wracking but my tutors were very kind, supportive and helpful. Their support allowed me to excel and achieve high grades. I have now secured a place at a university. Fanny
