In this series, we report on the latest IELTS-related news. One thing, in particular, has had a significant impact on IELTS over the last month- the coronavirus.
The Latest IELTS News
IELTS Tests Still Unavailable In China
IELTS has been hitting the international news in recent weeks. The British Council and IDP centres, which administer the test, have closed down their centres in several countries – most notably China.
Most other CELT tests have also closed leaving students with no alternatives.
The owners of CELT tests will be looking to make a comeback in April. However, this will depend on the current situation with the coronavirus and ongoing government restrictions.
Even if the tests do return to China in April, it is possible they may temporarily close elsewhere.
Another problem may be staffing levels. Many of the staff who administer and mark these exams are on zero-hour contracts — and some may well have moved on to new employment.
Education in Crisis
Australia
Covid-19 has hit the Australian education system hard …
All #IELTS tests have been cancelled in China for February. 100,000 students who should be travelling to Australia are now marooned. It pays to get your #IELTS band score early to avoid this kind of complication. We are here to help if we can! https://t.co/kw8XpusRaz
— Andy T (@withanexpert) February 12, 2020
If you have found yourself in this situation, there is hope. Some universities and students have found ways around the restrictions by travelling to third countries before entering Australia.
Universities have helped by providing financial aid packages covering a larg part of the extra cost incurred by students.
The UK
UK universities are facing similar problems as students struggle to get the proof of their English language ability for university admission.
Again, there are always solutions, and travelling to a third country to take the IELTS test is one of them.
There is likely to be a major effort to get IELTS back on track in China and other countries in April.
In the meantime, you could always study for the IELTS test online.
International Employment Opportunities
The UK government is currently planning to bring retired doctors and other medical professionals out of retirement.
With a new points-based-immigration system about to be introduced – there has never been a better time to apply!
Get in touch if you need help passing your English languge test!
Further Reading
If you want to keep abreast of the latest developments, follow our blog, Twitter and LinkedIn accounts for up-to-the-minute news.
See you in April!