When to write ielts for Jan 2024 intake?

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’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’s IELTS Superpack

Pros - 

Comes with two practice exams and 2 audio CDs

Very comprehensive

Con - Not designed for absolute beginners

 

3. Simone Braverman’s Target Band 7

Pros - It’s clear and easy-to-read

Written by someone who has taken the IELTS tests themselves

Con - Some of the sample tests don’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’t cover anything new as it just focusses on test strategy

 

5. Cambridge IELTS 15 Academic Student’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.

 

 

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. 

 

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.