Preparing for the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re just starting out. Whether you’re aiming for higher education abroad, professional certification, or migration purposes, scoring well in IELTS requires the right strategy, materials, and practice.
This guide is a complete roadmap for IELTS preparation, specifically tailored for Bangladeshi students. You’ll find study resources, preparation tips, common mistakes, and where to seek guidance in Bangladesh.
📌 Step 1: Understand the IELTS Test Format
IELTS has two versions:
• IELTS Academic – For university admission or professional registration.
• IELTS General Training – For work or migration purposes.
Both versions have four sections:
1. Listening (30 minutes)
2. Reading (60 minutes)
3. Writing (60 minutes)
4. Speaking (11–14 minutes)
👉 Official IELTS website: IELTS.org Test Format
📌 Step 2: Choose Between Paper-Based and Computer-Delivered IELTS
In Bangladesh, you can sit for either:
• Paper-Based IELTS: Traditional pen-and-paper test.
• Computer-Delivered IELTS (CD-IELTS): Same test, but conducted on a computer at an official center.
Both are accepted worldwide, so choose the format you feel more comfortable with.
📌 Step 3: Gather the Right IELTS Study Materials
Here are essential resources you should start with:
Free Materials:
• British Council Free IELTS Practice Tests
• IDP IELTS Practice Materials
• Cambridge IELTS Books (1–18 PDF & Audio)
Paid / Recommended Books:
• The Official Cambridge Guide to IELTS
• Barron’s IELTS Superpack
• Collins English for IELTS Series
📌 Step 4: Create a Study Plan
A structured timetable is crucial. Here’s a 3-month plan (adjust if you have more/less time):
• Month 1: Focus on grammar, vocabulary, and understanding the test format.
• Month 2: Practice each section with real test papers.
• Month 3: Take full mock tests under timed conditions and refine weak areas.
📌 Step 5: Section-Wise IELTS Preparation Tips
1. Listening
• Practice with BBC podcasts or TED Talks.
• Improve note-taking speed.
• Learn to recognize different English accents.
2. Reading
• Read newspapers like The Daily Star, The Guardian, or The Economist.
• Skim for main ideas and scan for keywords.
• Time yourself to complete passages faster.
3. Writing
• Practice Task 1 (Graphs/Charts/Letters) and Task 2 (Essays) separately.
• Learn structures for opinion essays, problem-solution essays, and discussion essays.
• Use websites like IELTS Mentor for sample answers.
4. Speaking
• Record yourself answering IELTS Part 1 & 2 questions.
• Practice with a study partner.
• Use apps like IELTS Speaking Assistant
📌 Step 6: Mock Tests Are Key
Taking practice tests under real exam conditions helps identify your weaknesses. Both British Council and IDP Bangladesh arrange mock tests.
📌 Step 7: Coaching Support in Bangladesh
Self-study is possible, but many Bangladeshi students benefit from professional guidance:
• Executives Care, Chittagong – Provides both IELTS preparation classes and is an official test center for IELTS and TOEFL. Known for structured lessons and updated study resources, it helps students understand exam techniques.
• Mentors Education Dhaka & Chittagong – Offers IELTS, GRE, and TOEFL coaching with experienced instructors.
• Saifur’s (S@ifur’s) – Popular among students for language courses, though more exam-oriented practice is recommended.
• British Council Bangladesh – The official body, offering premium training with international instructors.
👉 Each has strengths: some focus more on exam-taking strategies, while others on language building. The key is to find a center that matches your needs.
📌 Step 8: IELTS Preparation at Home (Without Coaching)
If you prefer self-study:
• Follow YouTube channels like IELTS Liz, E2 IELTS, and Academic English Help.
• Use mobile apps such as IELTS Prep (by British Council).
• Join IELTS study groups on Facebook for peer support.
📌 Step 9: Extra Tips for Success
• Don’t memorize answers; focus on skills.
• Build your vocabulary gradually with apps like Quizlet.
• Stay calm during the Speaking test—it’s about communication, not perfection.
📌 Final Thoughts
IELTS preparation is a combination of smart planning, consistent practice, and professional guidance if needed. Bangladeshi students have access to quality resources both online and offline, from free practice tests to expert-led coaching centers like Executives Care in Chittagong, British Council, or Mentors Education.
If you stay disciplined, use the right materials, and track your progress with mock exams, scoring Band 7.5 or higher is achievable.