We are currently about to apply for ours skilled worker visa's, moving from West Midlands, UK to Cohrane, AB but could really do with some help regarding the IELT's test. We have had a look in to it and have a few questions. Does the main applicant only have to take the test? Do we need to take both academic and general or just one or the other and Do we have to wait to apply for visa until this is completed? Current waiting times are next month at the least and the centre's have automated services so we cannot speak to anybody there.

Any info on this would be greatly appreciated!!

I have applied under the fsw visa.

Took my ielts (general) in September and sent it along with my completed application in November.

I was told by my visa advisor that I should have no problem with the ielts as a native British speaker. However I found it quite difficult. Just the time they give you for the sections, and the classroom environment. I left college in 2003 and have done no studying since.

The listening part I missed 5 questions as I didn't realise I was ment to turn the page over and the reading I raced through as I was desperate for the loo.

Although I passed I would recommend doing some practice tests online so you know what to expect on the day.

Hi Welcome to the forum,
Only the main applicant takes the IELT test, you only have to take the general test and i believe it is valid for two years. I think you can take the test at City College, Coventry. Its best to prepare and have a look at the British Council website. http://www.britishcouncil.org/learning-ielts.htm

IELTS exam is nothing to worry about. I sat mine in Dec in Hanover, Germany with no preparation and scored a 9.5. The only pressure you will feel, is that of self-induced pressure.

The principal applicant ONLY has to attend and pass IELTS for the immigration process. You cannot apply for Permanent Residency without the IELTS pass certificate as it is required for Stage 1 - Central Intake Office, without the IELTS they will not consider your application.

If you are immigrating you only need to take the General test; if you are immigrating to study you will need to sit the Academic test.

A lot of people have bought the practice material from the IELTS website and found it beneficial, that said, the test is not difficult at all. However, the speed at certain points of the exam was fairly fast and i really had to listen.

If you need any more advice i will do my best to help you out.

Good luck

Definately won't do any harm to do some online practice, as although it shouldn't pose to much of a problem, it isn't a walk in the park and is easy to get left behind on listening exam.
Good luck

Hi guys,

That's fantastic thank you for your help. I am hoping to get in on to a place next month not far from where we live. Thanks again!!