What IELTS measures
IELTS stands for the International English Language Testing System. It assesses how well a person can use English in situations connected with study, work, migration, and everyday life.
IELTS is a test, not a course. A result gives evidence of English ability at the time of the test; it does not decide by itself whether someone can enter a university, receive a visa, or get a job.
Four skills, one overall result
The main IELTS tests assess Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Test takers receive a band score for each skill and an overall band score based on those four results.
The organisation receiving your result sets its own required score. Always check its current requirement before choosing a test or booking a date.
Start with your goal
IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training have different purposes and different Reading and Writing content. Some immigration routes also specify an IELTS for UKVI test. The right choice depends on the exact institution, visa, or professional body you are applying to.