IELTS Preparation & Practice Materials

Get ready for IELTS with the official preparation materials from IDP — the co-owner of IELTS.  Access free mock tests, practice PDFs, study plans, and expert tips to boost your band score with confidence. 

Explore Free IELTS Preparation Samples 

See what real IELTS study materials look like before you begin: 

1. English self-assessment test: Check your current English proficiency level.  

2. IELTS basics: Understand the test format and build a strong foundation from beginner to confident test-taker. 

3. IELTS study plan: Get a starter study plan to stay organised and focused every day. 

4. Free sample tasks: Start with official IELTS practice tests to evaluate and improve your skills. 

5. Full-length IELTS mock tests: Try for free and track your progress towards your dream band score. 

These samples are taken from official IELTS exam preparation resources, so you can practice exactly what’s tested. 

How to Prepare for the IELTS test?

Step 1: Understand the IELTS test structure 

The IELTS test includes four sections: 

Pro tip: Start with one full mock test to experience the format firsthand. 

Step 2: Assess your current English level. 

Before diving deep, ask yourself: 

• What is your English fluency level right now? 

• Which module is your weakest—Listening, Reading, Writing, or Speaking? 

Take a free placement test or mock IELTS to benchmark your starting band score. 

Step 3: Set up your IELTS study plan. 

Self-study works wonders when you follow a structured plan. Here's how: 

1. Divide the week – allocate time to each module. 

2. Set realistic goals – e.g., improve writing by 1 band in 4 weeks. 

3. Practice every day – even if it’s just 30 minutes of reading or listening. 

Step 4: Master each IELTS module with a strategy 

Listening:

• Practice identifying keywords 

• Improve note-taking during recordings 

• Use accents from the UK, AUS, CAN, USA 

Reading: 

• Learn skimming vs scanning 

• Highlight key points 

• Time your practice strictly 

Writing: 

• Understand band descriptors for Tasks 1 and 2 

• Use formal language, structure, and coherence 

• Get feedback from sample essays 

Speaking: 

• Practice with a mirror or partner 

• Focus on fluency, not just vocabulary 

• Record yourself to self-correct 

Step 5: Use official IELTS preparation resources. 

Top-rated resources include: 

• Preparation guide 

• Study planner 

• Cambridge IELTS Prep Programme 

• IELTS by IDP apps 

• Self-assessment tool 

• Practice videos 

• Mock tests 

• Familiarisation test for IELTS on Computer 

• IELTS masterclass 

• IELTS podcasts 

• IELTS grammar 

Step 6: Take mock tests frequently 

Mock tests are your mirror; they help you: 

• Track progress 

• Experience time pressure 

• Identify common mistakes 

Start with one every 2 weeks, then increase frequency as your test date nears. 

Step 7: Review and revise intelligently 

• Maintain an error journal 

• Note commonly confused words or grammar issues 

• Re-attempt wrongly answered questions 

Step 8: Get ready for test day 

Prepare a checklist: 

• Valid ID/passport 

• Confirmation email 

• Stationery for IELTS on Paper 

• Arrive early