It’s a common query that many students face when thinking about studying in Turkey: To prepare for the IELTS test, should I choose IDP or the British Council? However, many students are afraid that one test provider will be a preferred provider over the other for the Turkish universities. 

Fortunately, the acceptance of IELTS scores is the same for both IDP and the British Council. We at StudyLead Consultants let the students know about the English requirements, prepare them for IELTS and assist them in choosing the right university in Turkey with confidence.

Here we will outline the difference, similarities and things you should think about when booking your IELTS test.

What Is IELTS?

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is one of the world’s most trusted English language proficiency exams. It assesses how well you can communicate in English on four skills:

1. Listening
2. Reading
3. Writing
4. Speaking

Many universities in Turkey accept IELTS scores, as well as thousands of universities, immigration authorities and employers around the world.

Who Conducts IELTS?

The IELTS is an examination owned and run by well-known organisations. Typically, students take their tests from one of two official organisations:

1. IDP IELTS
2. British Council

Both organizations are based on international IELTS standards.

Is There Any Difference Between IDP and British Council IELTS?

The answer is NO.

Students may either sit IELTS with IDP or the British Council:

1. Formatting will be identical.
2. The scoring system is the same.
3. The level of difficulty remains the same.
4. The certificate you receive is valid as well.
5. Both providers’ scores are accepted by all universities in Turkey.

The test center you take the test at has no impact on your eligibility for university admission.

There is no change in the format of the test.

Test Format Remains the Same

Both providers have the same IELTS format:

Listening

You respond to questions from recorded conversations and monologues.

Reading

Read passages and respond to questions about their meaning.

Writing

You write two assignments to demonstrate your capacity to effectively and clearly express ideas.

Speaking

Your spoken English is assessed with a face-to-face meeting with a certified IELTS examiner.

The marking criteria are the same for every provider.

Computer-Based vs Paper-Based IELTS

Both IDP and the British Council can provide:

1. Computer-delivered IELTS
2. Paper-based IELTS

The material, grading and certificate are not changed. The difference lies only in the ways that you take the Listening, Reading and Writing sections.

Students have the option to select the format they are most comfortable with.

Which IELTS Does Turkey Accept?

Valid IELTS Academic scores (IDP or British Council) are accepted by all universities in Turkey that require English proficiency.

To be certain, it is best to consult the requirements for admission to the university you choose:

1. Minimum band score
2. Overall score requirement
3. Section-wise score requirements
4. Score validity period

Other universities may also consider other forms of English language proficiency.

How to Choose Between IDP and British Council

Because the actual exam will be identical, you can consider factors such as:

Test Availability

Select the provider that has the same applications deadline as your university application date.

Location

Choose a testing centre that is easy to get to and is convenient.

Test Format

You can choose between paper-based and computer-based exam.

Preparation Resources

Both providers provide authentic practice materials for students to prepare.

Tips to Achieve a High IELTS Score

However prepared you are, it is your preparation that matters the most, regardless of the provider you select.

Here are some tips that will help you:

1. Do activities for all four IELTS skills every day.
2. Learn and practice vocabulary and grammar.
3. Regularly, complete full-length practice tests.
4. Know how to manage time effectively.
5. Discuss familiar writing and speaking concepts.
6. Read English newspapers, articles and books.
7. Listen to English radio and TV.

If you are well-prepared, you can boost your band score immensely.