IELTS Syllabus 2025: Complete Breakdown of All 4 Modules

If you’re planning to take the IELTS exam, knowing the IELTS syllabus is the first step toward effective preparation. Whether you’re aiming for academic or general training, the test structure remains the same in terms of format, timing, and scoring. Let’s walk you through each part of the syllabus in detail.

 1. IELTS Listening Syllabus

Duration: 30 minutes (+ 10 minutes to transfer answers)
Sections: 4
Total Questions: 40

You will listen to four recordings by native English speakers and answer questions related to them. These recordings include conversations and monologues based on everyday and academic situations.

Question Types:

Multiple choice

Matching

Map/plan/diagram labeling

Sentence completion

Short-answer questions

✅ Tip: Practice with various English accents (British, American, Australian) to boost your listening skills.

 2. IELTS Reading Syllabus

Duration: 60 minutes
Total Questions: 40

The Reading section differs slightly between the Academic and General Training versions.

Academic: 3 long passages from books, journals, newspapers, or online sources.

General Training: Extracts from advertisements, instruction manuals, and general interest topics.

Question Types:

True/False/Not Given

Matching headings

Summary completion

Sentence completion

Multiple choice

✅ Tip: Improve your reading speed and understanding of main ideas and supporting details.

 3. IELTS Writing Syllabus

Duration: 60 minutes
Tasks: 2

Academic:

Task 1: Describe a graph, chart, map, or process.

Task 2: Write an essay in response to a point of view or problem.

General Training:

Task 1: Write a letter (formal, informal, or semi-formal).

Task 2: Essay writing—same as Academic.

✅ Tip: Use a wide range of vocabulary and sentence structures. Stick to the task and plan your writing.

4. IELTS Speaking Syllabus

Duration: 11–14 minutes
Sections: 3

1-Part 1: Introduction and interview (questions about yourself, hobbies, work, etc.)

2-Part 2: Cue card (speak for 1–2 minutes on a given topic)

3-Part 3: Discussion (follow-up questions based on Part 2)

 Tip: Speak clearly, stay on topic, and use natural expressions. Don’t memorize answers.

 Final Thoughts

Understanding the IELTS syllabus is crucial for achieving a high band score. Once you’re familiar with the structure, you can create a targeted study plan and practice efficiently. Whether you’re preparing for study abroad, migration, or work purposes, a clear grasp of the syllabus gives you a strong foundation for success.