IELTS-ACEDEMIC OR GENERAL, WHICH ONE IS NEEDED

[Hopeful Canadian]

Hi Al:

I am a new comer.
My Question is that If I have an IELTS-ACEDEMIC Band 7, Do I even then need to re-take IELTS-GENERAL for Canadian immigration purposes?
Early answer appreciated specially from Senior members like PMM.

Hopeful Canadian

[todiefor]

If your a skilled worker applicant, you should take GENERAL while if you plan to go to Canada as student, you need to take ACADEMIC.

[habib890]

IELTS-General is required for immigration purposes.
Thank you.

[qbanky]

If what you have is current, I would suggest you advise them immediately of your results and argue that it be used in lieu of general. Technically speaking Academic is more difficult than general. goodluck

[olusolalekan]

General is required for immigration while academic is for students.

i agree academic may be much more difficult but general is more effective in determining ability to use the language in everyday interaction. many people from some countries score high in academic language tests but can't interact with the same language in social/work setting. that is why they ask for general.

my advice is that you should apply with the academic test result if stil valid. They may not use the 7 score the same way they award language points in the case of general tests, but it will serve as a decent guide to the immigration officer when awarding you the language points. you should write a letter requesting that they evaluate the evidence you will submit (which will include certificates and the academic IELTS). afterall some people don't even have to take any language tests if they put in evidence of their ability to use the language.