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IELTS or Cambridge English: What’s the Difference and Which Should You Choose?

IELTS or Cambridge English: What’s the Difference and Which Should You Choose?

An age old question is deciding which you should choose: IELTS or Cambridge English? It's clear once you understand the differences between the two.

IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is aimed at learners learners aged 16 or older, with the specific goal of proving their English language proficiency for university admission or for visa requirements to live and work in English-speaking countries.
An IELTS test is the same for all candidates and results are on a band level, with Band 1 being on the low end of the scale and Band 9 on the high end.

Cambridge English tests learners of all ages and all levels from beginner to advanced, for the purpose of education or work.
Your English proficiency is tested at specific levels, with a series for younger children at primary school and another series for students at secondary school level. There are also tests for adults and a specialised business series for working professionals.

So, what's the difference?

Cambridge English certifications are valid for life! An IELTS certification, on the other hand, has a validity period of 2 years because your language level can change over time and most institutions require an up-to-date test score of your English level. 

In an IELTS exam, each language skill (writing, reading, listening and speaking) is tested with a range of different questions focused on functional, real-world English language use.
The very structured progression of Cambridge English is delivered in a format that school-aged children are familiar with when developing their language skills.

At Dynamic Language Centre, our teaching supports both pathways. So, whether you plan to explore IELTS or Cambridge English, our English language lessons can provide the preparation you need to score successfully.
We plan to run a Cambridge English preparation camp next year! This would be held before the next Cambridge exam session so students may practise their skills in all areas of the English language under the experienced guidance of our teachers. All prospective students are welcome to register, as well as our long-attending Dynamic Kids English programme students too.