A review of the top IELTS preparation courses
In today’s globalised world, more students seek to study abroad, particularly in countries where English is the primary language. For these students, demonstrating proficiency in English is often a requirement for admission to universities, and the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a widely recognised measure of language proficiency.
However, for non-native speakers, preparing for and taking the IELTS exam can be a daunting task, and failure to achieve a satisfactory score can have significant consequences. As a result, many students take IELTS preparation courses to help them prepare for the test and improve their chances of success.
IELTS preparation courses
This article will explore seven of the best IELTS preparation courses available, providing you with the information you need to make an informed decision and succeed on the IELTS exam.
GlobalExam
GlobalExam touts that they have helped over 1.8 million students to complete the IELTS exam successfully. They offer courses for individuals and businesses, allowing students to track their progress through the dashboard. Courses are set to focus on areas where students have the greatest need, ensuring a high degree of success in the program.
They offer four different payment options, allowing you to pay per week, month, three months, and year. The one-week option (€29.90) lets you try the course to see if this works for you. However, you can save a hundred euros by choosing the 12-month option.
E2
E2 is another successful company that has over one million students and counting. Not only do they offer a well-developed IELTS prep course, but they also provide other prep courses in OET, TOEFL, and TOEIC. One benefit is that they let you have a free trial to get a feel for how successful this program would assist you. Plus, you receive 45-minute private lesson sessions.
Pricing is based on six months ($159), nine months ($239), and 12 months ($339). While their pricing may be slightly higher than others, including private lessons makes this a worthwhile cost.
IELTS Online
IELTS Online provides students with over 100 video tutorials that teach grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation. There are eight full mock tests to give students a feel for what it is like to take the exam. However, assessments help them guide lessons toward the individual needs of the students.
Pricing is based upon the amount of assistance needed, ranging from AU$ 40 per month to AU$ 100 per month.
Future Learn
Future Learn gives you 10 different courses provided by different universities and other instructors. This enables you to find the right trading course to fit your needs. While some of the other courses mentioned in this review are listed, others could be ideal for you.
Pricing depends upon the course you choose, but there are instructors and programs from across the globe, including several from recognised institutions, such as the British Council and Sentinel. You can choose courses that best serve your needs and prepare for this exam.
edX
IELTS Academic Test Preparation is a free training course offered by edX and is prepared by the University of Queensland. The course lasts between 5-10 weeks. You move at your own speed to complete the course.
While there is no charge for the basic course, you may need additional training, and they offer more advanced prep should you choose the optional upgrade. This is a one-time €160 charge, and the upgrade offers unlimited access to all materials, including the certification completion program. All your assignments and mock exams are graded by instructors as well. Once assignments are graded, instructors provide direct feedback on areas for improvement and where you excel.
Coursera
IELTS Preparation Specialization is a course offered on the Coursera platform by the University of California, Irvine, which allows you to enrol and work online for free during a seven-day trial period. After that, they charge just €40 per month. They have three levels of courses, starting with a writing section, then listening and speaking, with the third phase focused on reading. Each of these sections is available for free. However, this is only for the beginner level. Those in greater need of more advanced teaching can pay the fee. The benefit of their program is that you can see how well it works for you in the free version before choosing any upgrade; plus, they have over 7000 courses available, all accessible through the monthly fee.
Udemy
IELTS Courses found on Udemy are designed to help you with specific areas related to the course. For example, you may be skilled in writing and reading but need help speaking. Some courses are available specifically to address this need, some at as low as $17.99. There are courses designed to improve vocabulary or your writing skills. This buffet-style site allows you to choose what best suits your needs. Assessments are also available to help you find the areas you should work on most.
IELTS preparation tools
Unfortunately, online IELTS courses are not sufficient for IELTS preparation. You need feedback on your progress, which is why many students turn to teachers or automated essay checkers. However, teachers are expensive and generic essay checkers do not understand the IELTS assessment criteria.
IELTS Navigator is the first-of-its-kind AI-powered essay checker designed for the IELTS writing part 2 exam. When you check your essay using the IELTS Navigator app, you don’t just highlight your errors; it gives you detailed feedback and action steps to help you improve your essay writing abilities.
No matter what course or study tools you choose, it is crucial to recognise that regular practice and continual work are essential if you are going to do well on the IELTS. English is not an easy language. In fact, it is arguably one of the most difficult to learn. To master it to the level that you can thrive on this exam means you must work hard and study plenty to succeed.
