Explore the information below to learn about the benefits of IELTS certification for your education and career.
For many young Indonesians, studying and working abroad is a way to achieve their dreams of gaining new, global experiences, especially in terms of personal and career development. So, what's the first step they should take to make that dream a reality?
Take the First Step: Preparing for a Global Experience
Taking the leap to study and work abroad is a significant decision that requires careful planning and preparation. Just as you wouldn't embark on any other major adventure without a map, seeking global experience demands a well-defined strategy and a proactive approach.
Proactive Program/Job Search
Don't wait until the last minute! Start researching programs or jobs well in advance to give yourself ample time to explore your options and make informed decisions. If you're unsure where to begin, attend job fairs or university fairs to connect with recruiters and representatives. Additionally, leverage the power of the internet to connect with individuals who have experience studying or working abroad – their insights can be invaluable.
Essential Logistics
Before moving abroad, prioritize researching visa requirements, financial planning, housing arrangements, and health insurance coverage. Country-specific regulations vary significantly, making thorough logistical preparation crucial.
Assess Your English Proficiency
Take the first step towards improving your English by researching recognized certification tests like IELTS. Find the test that aligns with your goals and meets the necessary requirements. Then, accurately assess your current English level to identify your strengths and weaknesses.
If You are Studying: Investigate the specific requirements for a student visa in your chosen country. Contact the university or embassy for guidance.
If You are Working: Confirm whether your employer can sponsor your work visa. If not, research alternative visa options.
Next: Demonstrate Your Ability to Communicate within International Context
With a solid understanding of global experience preparation, you're ready to take the next step. As you move forward with your plans to study or work abroad, remember that demonstrating your English proficiency is crucial. The IELTS test provides a valuable assessment of your skills and unlocks a foundation for success in a global environment. Here are five reasons why IELTS is your gateway to worldwide experience:
1. IELTS Certification Unlocks a World of Opportunities for Study and Work Abroad
For those aspiring to study or work abroad, IELTS is a valuable asset. As a trusted and globally recognized English language certification, it demonstrates your proficiency to universities, employers, and visa officials, boosting your credibility and strengthening your application. In today's competitive world, IELTS is no longer optional – it's essential for gaining acceptance and maximizing your opportunities.
Many job and study applications require an IELTS certification to ensure effective communication with colleagues and peers, minimizing potential difficulties in an international environment. However, the value of this certification is time sensitive. The IELTS validity period of two years reflects the dynamic nature of language skills and the need for a current assessment of a candidate's English language proficiency, highlighting the importance of continued language use to maintain those skills.
2. IELTS is accepted by over 12,500 organisations worldwide.
The benefits of taking the IELTS test go further than just a test score. The IELTS score is your passport to global opportunities, recognized by universities, companies, and immigration authorities around the world. With acceptance by over 12,500 institutions globally, IELTS certification is a valuable investment that offers a significant return. By having an IELTS certificate on hand, anything is possible!
3. IELTS added value
Among its many strengths, the IELTS Speaking test offers a particularly valuable assessment experience. What sets the IELTS Speaking test apart is its commitment to human interaction. The test is structured as a three-part conversation with a certified examiner. This format allows you to demonstrate a range of speaking skills, from basic conversational fluency to more complex analytical and argumentative abilities. Being examined face to face ensures a fair and accurate assessment of your communication skills, providing opportunities to showcase your personality and connect with the examiner.
The IELTS Speaking test allows you to learn the three distinct parts, each with specific purpose and format:
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
This is where the examiner will introduce themselves and ask you to confirm your identity and ask you general questions about yourself. This could be about your home, family, work or studies, and interests. This part assesses fluency and coherence, vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. The examiner is looking for your ability to speak clearly and naturally about familiar topics.
This entire section, including preparation, lasts 3-4 minutes. To succeed in Part 2, focus on using appropriate language, organizing your ideas logically, and drawing upon your own experiences to provide relevant and engaging details.
Part 3: Discussion
Part 3 of the IELTS Speaking test builds upon the topic you discussed in Part 2 but shifts the focus to a more general and abstract level. You and the examiner will engage in a discussion, exploring related issues in greater depth and analyzing different perspectives. This section lasts 4-5 minutes and assesses your ability to explain your opinions clearly, support your viewpoints with evidence, and speculate about the broader implications of the topic.
By understanding the purpose and format of each of the three distinct parts – Introduction and Interview, Long Turn, and Discussion – you can strategically prepare yourself to showcase your full potential and unlock opportunities for study, work, and personal growth. Keep in mind that everyday fluency in English does not guarantee a high score on the IELTS Speaking test. This test is a simulation of a formal academic environment. Therefore, intensive practice is essential. Visualize yourself presenting in front of a class or leading a business meeting, convincing the audience with structured arguments and appropriate language. With thorough preparation, taking the IELTS Speaking test is not just about getting a score, but a valuable investment in your education and international career.
4. Preparing Students for International Success: Az Zahra's IELTS Success Story
Highlighting the value of the IELTS Speaking test, she adds, "One of the challenges of living in a non-English speaking country is the lack of opportunities to practice English in everyday situations. The IELTS Speaking test, with its focus on real-life communication, helped me sharpen my skills and gain the confidence I needed to use English effectively in academic and professional settings.”
5. Maximize Your IELTS with British Council's Computer Test & Retake Options
The British Council Foundation is committed to supporting you on your journey to study or work abroad. That's why when you register for your IELTS test with us, you'll gain access to a wealth of resources, including IELTS Ready Premium with 40 online practice tests for each section (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking).
To further enhance your preparation, choose IELTS on Computer for a better testing experience. You'll benefit from our comfortable testing environment, receive your results faster, and gain access to free preparation materials designed to boost your confidence. We also offer a comprehensive range of resources, including webinars, sample questions, and trial testing. Also, with the British Council's fast-track option, you can register just one day before the test and receive your results the very next day!
Recognizing that everyone learns differently, IELTS also offers the flexibility of IELTS One Skill Retake. This option allows you to focus on specific areas for improvement by retaking just one section of the test – Listening, Reading, Writing, or Speaking – without having to retake the entire exam, saving you time and money.
By understanding five compelling reasons why and how IELTS can serve as your gateway to a world of academic and professional opportunities, you are now well-informed to make strategic decisions as you plan your study or work abroad experience. Remember, thorough preparation is key to success, so start exploring IELTS preparation resources today with the British Council Indonesia Foundation.
Special Offer from the British Council for Prospective Students and International Professional
This March and April, the British Council Indonesia Foundation is here to help you achieve success on the international stage! Get a special price offer by saving IDR 400,000 for the IELTS test in March and April 2025. For more information about other interesting promotions, visit https://www.britishcouncilfoundation.id/tes/ielts/jadwal-tes-biaya-lokasi.
This offer is valid at several IELTS test locations, including Office 8 Jakarta, University Access Centre West Jakarta, London School of Accountancy and Finance North Jakarta, Multimedia Nusantara University Tangerang, Golden Gate Education Bali, SYNERGI International Academy Medan, UPT Bahasa Unimed Surabaya, CILACS Universitas Islam Indonesia Yogyakarta, BETA Bridging Borders Bandung, and Service English Unit Diponegoro University Semarang.