When to write ielts for Jan 2024 intake?

Question

Ruben Osbon · Accepted Answer

You have more than a year for January 2024 intake. IELTS is a language prifciency test and checks your ability to read, write and understand English. While the test score has a validity of 2 years, I would suggest giving it in somewhere around September 2023. You will have plenty of time to prepare till then. By doing so, even if your IELTS score is a little less, you can give another attempt and you&rsquo;ll have ample of time to improve your IELTS score . 
As far as the preparation is concerned, you can check out these IELTS test prep books:1.The Official Cambridge Guide to IELTS
Pros - 
Help you prepare for all the sections of the IELTS exam.
Includes a DVD with listening and speaking tests
Cons - 
Better for getting to know the exam format and structure rather than learning new things.
 
2. Barron&rsquo;s IELTS Superpack
Pros - 
Comes with two practice exams and 2 audio CDs
Very comprehensive
Con - Not designed for absolute beginners
 
3. Simone Braverman&rsquo;s Target Band 7
Pros - It&rsquo;s clear and easy-to-read
Written by someone who has taken the IELTS tests themselves
Con - Some of the sample tests don&rsquo;t have answers
 
4. IELTS Practice Tests Plus 2 with Key and CD Pack
Pros - 
Sample answers with annotations and explanations
There are 6 full tests included
Con - Doesn&rsquo;t cover anything new as it just focusses on test strategy
 
5. Cambridge IELTS 15 Academic Student&rsquo;s Book with Answers
Pros - 
Good tips which are divided up by section
It goes into a lot of detail
Cons- Not ideal for complete beginners
 
You can also get IELTS test prep tips, tricks and FREE resources curated by Study Abroad Experts and top school alumni to ace your IELTS. 
Let me know if you need any other information or assistance is required from my end.

Nandini Chauhan · Answer

I advise students targeting the January 2024 intake to complete their IELTS by July 2023 at the latest. This timeline is strategic; it aligns with most university application deadlines and offers a cushion for retests if necessary. Students should dedicate 1-2 months for preparation, depending on their current proficiency. 
An early test date also facilitates smoother visa processing and provides more time for handling other application components. Remember, a well-planned IELTS schedule is a crucial step in your journey to studying abroad. So, do start as early as possible.

Sarita Yadav · Answer

For January 2024 intake, you must aim IELTS exam for June or July of 2023. It might seem early, but it's the sweet spot for balancing preparation and application deadlines. I spent around 6-8 weeks preparing for the test, and it paid off. Early completion gave me the headspace to focus on other aspects of my application. 
Plus, it's reassuring to have your language proficiency sorted well before the application process begins. And if things don't go as planned the first time, you've got a buffer to try again.