Hello all
I have just returned form my IELTS test at Melton College York and thought I would share my experience and thoughts with all you lovely POI members.
I had to take the IELTS as I have hit 40 this year and need the points to get my 175 visa.
I arrived this morning at 8-30 nice and early to get one of the "limited" parking spaces. Spaces were not too limited though and you could get quite a few cars in there so don't worry too much about that.
Registration took place from 09-00 with people queueing at two tables for the different types of test. As I was doing the general test I went to that table.
Most people were doing the academic test to allow them to work or study here in the UK. There were approx 10 people doing the general test to get to OZ and as such we tended to group together amongst the many other nationalities present. I met a great group of people who all new about or used POI, so hello to all of you!
The tests themselves were done under very strict exam conditions with a shouty man telling people to shut up and sit down. Many of us commented that it was like being back at school!
The listening test came first. This
seemed quite easy, but required a good deal of concentration. If your mind wanders you have had it, so concentrate!
The reading text was next. There was no break between the tests so no time to relax or talk amongst ourselves.
The reading was the test I found hardest. Not because I can't read, but because the questions are designed to be misleading. Several are in the "true, false & not given" variety. I still am unsure if the whales who go to eastern Australia arrive before or after the ones that go to western Australia, but I think that was a not given answer. I now know quite a bit about whales!
The writing task was next. Once again there was no break in proceedings so off we went.
We had to write a letter of 150 words which if you are still reading this, you will know I didn't have too much trouble with.
Next we had a 250 word essay to do. Once again no real problem.
We had to leave the exam hall then and move to another site.
Our speaking exams were done in the afternoon from 2-00 onwards. We all sat in a canteen and waited to be called in to speak.
This was the easiest part of the day. As english (yorkshire version) is my first language I just had to waffle on about what I thought on a few diverse subjects - no probs there then. I can (as my wife often says) talk the proverbial pot eye to sleep.
All in all this was an interesting day if you enjoy spending £95 to prove you can speak English.
I will of course add to this post once I get my results - I hope I pass
as the cost is a bit steep and it would just add more time to the job.
Best of luck to all who I met today and I hope his helps if you are having to take the IELTS in the future!
Mr tyke
I wanted to take in some hand cream as I have had an allergic reaction to something and they have all blistered and cracked - I wasn't allowed. Even had to get special permission to get my fleece out of the locked room where they put all your personnal stuff, as it started to get a bit chilly.
I too was suprised that there were no breaks. I advise people to take a water bottle but drink slowly and get ready for listening carefully!
IELTS tests
