With its development-oriented postgraduate study programmes, the DAAD promotes the training of specialists from development and newly industrialised countries. Well-trained local experts, who are networked with international partners, play an important part in the sustainable development of their countries.
They are the best guarantee for a better future with less poverty, more education and health for all. The scholarships offer foreign graduates from development and newly industrialised countries from all disciplines and with at least two years’ professional experience the chance to take a postgraduate or Master’s degree at a state or state-recognised German university, and in exceptional cases to take a doctoral degree, and to obtain a university qualification (Master’s/PhD) in Germany.
Who can apply?
Graduates with at least two years’ professional experience from the following countries: list of eligible countries
What can be funded?
Individual scholarships exclusively for Postgraduate courses in Germany that are listed on the
Duration of the funding
12 to 42 months (dependent on study programme)
Value
Depending on academic level, monthly payments of 934 euros for graduates or 1,300 euros for doctoral candidates
Payments towards health, accident and personal liability insurance cover
Travel allowance, unless these expenses are covered by the home country or another source of funding
Under certain circumstances, scholarship holders may receive the following additional benefits:
Monthly rent subsidy
Monthly allowance for accompanying members of family
Selection
Candidates fulfil the necessary academic requirements and can be expected to successfully complete a study programme in Germany (above-average result for first academic exam – top performance third, language skills)
Candidates have a Bachelor degree (usually a four-year course) in an appropriate subject
Candidates have at least two years’ professional experience
Candidates can prove their motivation is development-related and be expected to take on social responsibility and initiate and support processes of change in their personal and professional environment after their training/scholarship
22 Mar Beyond Borders: Maximizing Your Potential with Remote Internship Opportunities
With the rise of remote fashion internships, aspiring young professionals can now do just that. No longer bound by physical borders, the possibilities for internships are endless.
From remote fashion internships to virtual experiences with global companies, the benefits are hard to ignore. Not only do they provide the chance to work with people from all over the world, but they also offer a unique learning experience like nothing else.
In this post, we’ll tell you everything you need to know to take your experience beyond borders – and how remote internships can help you do just that.
Why Choose a Remote International Internship?
The world has indeed become a global village, with technological advancements and improved transportation systems breaking down barriers that once separated us. Unfortunately, not everyone can afford (either the time or the money) to travel abroad for an internship.
That’s where remote international internships come in handy.
But what exactly is a remote international internship? Well, it’s exactly what it sounds like – an internship that you can do from anywhere in the world, all from the comfort of your own home (or any other remote location you choose).
These positions have become increasingly popular as more companies realize the benefits of having a diverse workforce – ideally, one that spans multiple time zones, cultures, and even languages. These internships provide a truly global experience, allowing you to work with people from all corners of the world.
One of the most significant benefits of a remote international internship is the ability to immerse yourself in a new culture and society without physically being there. This exposure to different perspectives will help you build worldliness and critical thinking skills that are absolutely essential in today’s interconnected world.
Not only that, but a remote international internship will give you the opportunity to learn new skills and gain knowledge that might not be available in your home country. For example, a fashion intern might learn new trend forecasting or textile techniques from designers in Milan, Paris, or Tokyo. You may also develop your language skills, something that’s valuable when working in a cross-cultural environment.
Don’t forget the fact that remote international internships offer an opportunity to build a network of contacts around the world, greatly expanding your professional circle. This presents numerous possibilities for future collaborations and job opportunities – and more employability and marketability in a globally connected world is never a bad thing.
How to Find Remote International Internships
So how do you get started in your search for a remote international internship? Sites like Indeed, Monster, and LinkedIn all list remote internship opportunities from reputable companies worldwide. Just make sure you do your due diligence to ensure that the company offering the internship is legitimate and not a scam – unfortunately, there are plenty of these out there.
The good news is that there are also many specialized internship programs and travel companies offer remote international internships, with Absolute Internship being one of them. By working with a reputable company that specializes in international internships, you’re more likely to have a successful experience and access the best job opportunities in the industry.
Of course, you can always reach out directly to the companies you’re interested in working for. Send in a customized resume and cover letter to the relevant department and see where that gets you. While this approach may take more effort, it also shows that you’re willing to go the extra mile.
When you’re working on your applications, make sure you customize your resume and cover letter to the specific position. Highlight your skills, achievements, and experiences to make sure you fit the requirements for the position. Use professional language and formatting – but also be sure to convey your personality and enthusiasm for the opportunity. And don’t forget to proofread!
How to Make the Most of Remote Fashion Internships
If you’re specifically interested in fashion internships, here are some tips for making the most of your experience:
Network, Network, Network: The fashion industry is all about who you know. Make sure to connect with as many professionals as possible during your remote fashion internship. Attend virtual events and ask for informational interviews.
Stay Up-to-Date on Trends and Technology: This industry is constantly evolving, so it’s important to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and technology. Follow industry publications and attend virtual conferences to learn more.
Be Adaptable and Creative: As you probably already know, the world of fashion is known for being fast-paced and unpredictable. Be prepared to pivot and be creative in your solutions.
Be Proactive: Don’t wait for your supervisor to give you tasks. Be proactive in seeking out opportunities to contribute and make a difference.
Broaden Your Horizons & Expand Your Expertise With a Remote International Internship in Fashion
Tired of the same-old, same-old? Dreaming of adventure and new experiences? A remote internal internship in fashion might be just what you need. Not only will you have the chance to explore a new culture, but you’ll also have the opportunity to learn new skills, expand your network, and increase your employability.
So what are you waiting for? Start exploring your options today!
Are you considering studying abroad in Australia? If so, know that the Australian government has announced incoming changes to the student visa process, which are set to take effect from March 23, 2024. More changes are expected later this year. Read on to find out more about the new Australian Genuine Student requirement, and what this means for you.
Whether you want to study in Australia or elsewhere, the ApplyBoard platform offers thousands of programs in five different countries. Find a program that fits your needs on our free-to-use platform today.
The New Genuine Student Requirement
In the past, international students were required to complete the Genuine Temporary Entrant, or GTE Australia, assessment. The GTE ensured that international students genuinely intend to pursue quality education in Australia. The assessment included a questionnaire, a 300-word personal statement and, in some cases, an interview.
Starting on March 23, 2024, Australia’s student visa assessment process will now include its new Genuine Student requirement (GS). This means applicants no longer need to provide a 300-word statement. Instead, the application process will involve responding to targeted questions.
GS Requirement Questions
Australia’s new GS requirement questions will focus on establishing a clearer, more personalized assessment of each student’s intentions and circumstances. Here are some of the Genuine Student requirement questions:
Provide details about your current situation, such as connections to family, community, work, and financial status.
Explain why you chose your specific course and why you selected Australia as your study destination.
Describe how your chosen course will benefit you, and provide information about any previous studies you’ve undertaken in Australia.
If you currently hold a different type of visa, explain why you’re applying for a Student visa.
Student Visa Declaration
Alongside the new Australian genuine student requirement, the updated Student visa declaration will also require applicants to confirm that they:
Understand what it means to be a genuine student while studying in Australia.
Have read, understand, and will follow the rules of their student visa, and to notify the Department of Home Affairs if their circumstances change.
Understand that while some circumstances allow certain students to reside in Australia permanently, only a limited number of graduates will be eligible to do so, and those who are not eligible must depart Australia after their studies.
Discover ten affordable student cities on our blog.
English Language Proficiency Changes
The Australian Government is also making changes to the English Test requirements for Student and Temporary Graduate visa applicants.
On December 11, 2023, the Australian Government declared that as of early 2024, changes would be made to the English language testing for student visas. The required score for student visas will increase from 5.5 to 6.0, and the minimum score for temporary graduate visas will also increase, from 6.0 to 6.5.
Temporary Graduate visas will increase from IELTS (or equivalent)6.0 to 6.5
Student visas will increase from IELTS (or equivalent) 5.5 to 6.0
English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS) will increase from IELTS (or equivalent) 4.5 to 5.0
University foundation or pathway programs that deliver English language training will require an IELTS (or equivalent) score of 5.5
Why are there different English levels for different students?
It’s Australia’s way of providing multiple pathways to study abroad success. Students with lower English proficiency can take an ELICOS or pathway course to boost their language skills, and progress to further education after graduating.
What This Means for International Students
If you’re planning to apply for a Student visa in Australia, it’s essential to understand these upcoming changes. Be prepared to provide detailed information about your academic circumstances, study history, as well as your reasons for choosing Australia as your educational destination.
It’s always a good idea to prepare for the Genuine Student requirement by thinking about how you’ll answer some potential questions, drafting different responses, and getting feedback from trusted friends or family members. As well, we recommend taking practice English language proficiency tests beforehand, to ensure your score still meets the new minimum requirements.
Read our blog for five reasons why you should take a practice IELTS test before the real deal.
If studying in Australia is on your radar, now is the time to start preparing for these updates to the student visa process. For the latest updates and guidance, visit the Australia’s Department of Home Affairs website.
Ready to start your journey abroad? Check out the ApplyBoard platform and explore your options.
Applications for the 2025-2026 Fulbright Foreign Student Program are now open! Please visit https://kh.usembassy.gov/fulbright-student-fellowship/ and start your journey today! Fulbright isn’t just a scholarship, it’s an adventure. It’s a chance to:
Pursue your academic goals at top universities across America: dive deep into your field, explore cutting-edge research, and learn from world-renowned professors.
Become an ambassador for your country: share your culture, build lasting friendships, and foster mutual understanding between nations.
Empower yourself to become a leader in your field: gain a global perspective, develop critical thinking skills, and emerge with the confidence and connections to make a real impact.
Discover a new home away from home: immerse yourself in the vibrant diversity of American culture, create unforgettable memories, and experience life like never before!
Are you a passionate, ambitious young professional dreaming of studying in the USA? Do you crave a life-changing experience that will broaden your horizons, deepen your knowledge, and connect you with a global network of changemakers? Then the Fulbright Foreign Student Program is your gateway to a world of possibilities!
It is the program’s effort to recruit international students in order to internationalize our learning environment. Full scholarships covering tuition and special fees for the first academic year will be offered to every international student admitted to the program for admission 2024. However, the only partial scholarship of THB 55,000 will be offered in the second semester in the first year if the student’s GPA is lower than 3.00. For the remaining academic years, every international student admitted to the program for admission 2024 will be offered with the partial scholarships consist of THB 55,000 (approximately USD 1,774) for Fall Semester, THB 55,000 (approximately USD 1,774) for Spring Semester, and THB 31,500 (approximately USD 1,016) for Summer Semester.
The University of Adelaide 2024 Global Academic Excellence 50% Scholarships (International) is a highly competitive award that rewards commencing undergraduate and postgraduate coursework international students who have demonstrated academic excellence in their previous studies.
Scholarship recipients will receive a 50% reduction toward international tuition fees when commencing at the University of Adelaide in 2024.
This scholarship is based on academic merit and eligibility is determined by the merit achieved in the qualification which constitutes the basis of admission.
This scholarship is available to:
International Students commencing with the University of Adelaide in their coursework award program in 2024;
Direct entry undergraduate and postgraduate award program applicants, including those who are required to undertake a Pre-Enrolment English Program (PEP) prior to their degree commencement;
Applicants that meet the minimum score
Open to citizens of Vietnam, Taiwan, Colombia, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh that are enrolling as International Students and students who have completed their most recent qualifications in Australia;
Available for study in any discipline (some exceptions apply).
Value
The scholarship offers a reduction of 50% of the tuition fee for the duration of the chosen undergraduate or postgraduate award program.
How to Apply
Eligibility for the scholarship is determined during a selection process at the time of application to the award program with the University of Adelaide.
This scholarship is based on academic merit and a selection process. The academic merit is determined by the merit achieved in the qualification which constitutes the basis of admission to the University. The academic component for admission to the University of Adelaide and all other conditions must be complete or met to be eligible to be considered for the scholarship (Unconditional).
Applicants identified as meeting the minimum merit requirement for the scholarship will have their application reviewed by the Scholarship Selection Committee if their application for the coursework program has been received prior to the closing dates outlined below.
Eligibility
Applicants will be eligible to be considered for 50% scholarship where they have demonstrated they have achieved the minimum score outlined as follows:
Applicants with a minimum ATAR of 99.9 (or comparable score) for entry to an undergraduate (UG) program.
Applicants with a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of6.9 on a 7.0 scale or comparable score for entry to an undergraduate (UG) or postgraduate (PG) program.
Applicants with a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 6.8 on a 7.0 scale for studies completed at the University of Adelaide (or with a comparable score for studies at an Australian University where studies are completed in Australia) for entry to an undergraduate (UG) or postgraduate (PG) level award program.
Applicants will then be assessed by a Scholarships Committee for suitability for offer of the scholarship.
Closing dates Each intake for the University has an application Closing date as follows:
Université Paris-Saclay aims to promote access for international students to its Master’s programmes, provided by its faculties, component-institutions and associated universities, and to make it easier for highly-qualified international students to join the University, especially for those wishing to develop an academic project through research up to the doctoral level.
Scholarships will be awarded for the 2024-2025 academic year. Established with the IDEX funding of the 3rd Programme Investissements d’Avenir, and based on academic achievements, these scholarships are aimed at students admitted to a Master’s programme delivered by Université Paris-Saclay and provided by one of the following insitutions: AgroParisTech, CentraleSupelec, Ecole Normale Supérieure Paris-Saclay (ENS Paris-Saclay), INSTN-CEA, Institut d’Optique Graduate School (IOGS), Université d’Evry-Val-d’Essonne (UEVE), Université Paris-Saclay (UPSaclay), Université de Versailles-Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines (UVSQ).
These scholarships are awarded for 1 or 2 years to students enrolled in a Master’s programme at Université Paris-Saclay, depending on their admission level (M1 or M2), and subject to completion of the required number of credits to go through to the following year of study.
Application timeline:
– Candidate selection deadline by the training manager: April 30, 2024 – After being selected, deadline for applying for the scholarship: May 03, 2024 – Deadline for the reception of the recommendations from the 2 referees, and closure of the call: May 07 2024 – Announcement of the results:end of June 2024
Pre-selection Process:
Admission to a Master’s programme does not automatically entitle students to a scholarship.
For more information, please see the Eligibility criteria.
Students eligible for a Paris-Saclay University IDEX scholarship will be selected by the admission panel among those students admitted to a Paris-Saclay University Master’s programme.
Only students who receive an email from Paris-Saclay University inviting them to apply for a Paris-Saclay University IDEXscholarship will be able to submit an application.
No unsolicited application is possible.
Application Procedure:
1) Selected students will automatically be sent a link by email to an online application form. Upon reception of this email, students wishing to apply will need to complete the online application form and provide (mandatory) the names and contact details of two referees who would be willing to submit a reference for the candidate (director of studies, professor, internship coordinator…).
2) Each of the two referees named by the candidate will be sent a link by email to an online recommendation form. They will be asked to complete and submit the form prior to the closing day of the scholarship call. The candidate will automatically be informed when each referee has submitted the form.
3) The application file for a scholarship will be considered complete when both recommendation forms have been submitted by the referees. Please note: the candidate will not receive a message confirming that the application is complete. It is up to the candidate to ensure both referees complete and submit the form by the deadline given in the invitation email.
Applications that are incomplete or received after the deadline will automatically be rejected.
Eligibility criteria:
Are eligible: – Students admitted to a Paris-Saclay University Master’s programme delivered by one of the following institutions: AgroParisTech, CentraleSupelec, ENS Paris-Saclay, INSTN-CEA, IOGS, UEVE, UPSaclay, UVSQ. Among these students, only those who answer one of the following criteria are eligible to apply: – Newly arrived international students, aged 30 and less during the course of the selection year. – Students of foreign nationality living on the French soil for less than a year, previously or currently enrolled in a training course or internship that does not lead to certification. – Students of foreign nationality living on the French soil for less than a year, taking language classes (type FFL). – Students who have lived in France in the past, within the framework of a mobility programme during their studies (e.g. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degrees, exchange programme…) that did not lead to certification.
Are ineligible: – All students who have been or who are enrolled in a French higher education institution during their studies, except international students enrolled in a French higher education institution abroad. – Students who have interrupted their studies for more than 3 consecutive years. – Students receiving any other type of funding whose amount exceeds 650€ per month.
Together with UNHCR (the UN Refugee Agency) and backed by MEnS association (Migrants dans l’Enseignement supérieur / Migrants in Higher Education), Paris-Saclay University is implementing a bonus system for refugee students or students with subsidiary protection within the framework of the IDEX scale of scholarships. If you are concerned by this status, please indicate it in your statement of purpose as soon as you submit your application to the master’s degree.
Programmes / Fields:
– All academic fields are eligible. – All Master’s programmes for which Université Paris-Saclay is accredited, except for vocational training, are eligible.
Selection of laureates, evaluation criteria:
Reminder: admission to a Master’s programme does not automatically entitle students to a scholarship
The selection of laureates is the responsibility of a jury composed of experts from the faculties, component-institutions and associated universities of Paris-Saclay University. The evaluation criteria take into account the following elements: – Academic level, – Personal project, – Specifically for students admitted in an M2 programme: well-argued motivation to pursue a thesis in a laboratory of Paris-Saclay University.
Amount and payment of the scholarship:
The amount of the Université Paris-Saclay scholarship is 10,000€ per year. It is paid by Université Paris-Saclay for the duration of the academic year, and for a period of 10 consecutive months (September to June).
A maximum of 1,000€ for travel and visa expenses can also be awarded depending on the candidate’s country of origin.
Laureates will receive their scholarship as well as travel expenses only upon arrival in France and once they have enrolled in the programme to which they were admitted.
No advance payment can be made.
Course Attendance and academic mobility:
– Selected students must follow the programme for which their scholarship was awarded in one of the faculties, component-institutions and associated universities of Paris-Saclay University. – The scholarship can be suspended in case of repeated absence without due justification. – The scholarship will be suspended, without possibility for deferment, during the period of time the student attends courses in an institution outside Paris-Saclay University (in France or abroad). – Payment of the scholarship will be continued within the frame of compulsory mobility required by some Paris-Saclay University programmes, or international university exchange programmes between Paris-Saclay University and its partners (double degree with compulsory mobility, Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degrees…). This compulsory mobility cannot be carried out in the student’s country or institution of origin. – Payment of the scholarship will be suspended for any student mobility outside compulsory mobility. – Placement years are authorized but not funded.
Internship:
– Internships in research laboratories must be done in one of the Paris-Saclay University research laboratories. Outside this framework, the scholarship will be suspended throughout the period of internship with no possibility for deferment. – Internships in companies must be carried out in France. – The scholarship will be suspended if internship wages exceed 700€/month.
Results:
All applicants to the scholarship programme will be informed by email of the jury’s decision.
Upon receiving the confirmation email, students will have 8 days to accept or refuse the scholarship. If students fail to respond within this timeframe, they will be deemed as having refused the scholarship.
Paris-Saclay University reserves the right to refuse or cancel the scholarship awarded if the information provided by the candidate proves to be false.
You know you have to complete an IELTS (International English Language Testing System) exam to study abroad, but you begin to wonder whether or not you should take a practice IELTS test beforehand.
Our answer: definitely.
While you may have spent a lot of time preparing for the actual exam, there’s absolutely no harm in taking a practice test. You’ll get a chance to familiarize yourself with the format of the exam, see how well you work under pressure, and see if you need more practice in certain parts of the exam. Whether it’s reading, writing, listening or communicating—the more practice you get, the better.
Completing the IELTS test opens many educational doors. You will not only be able to apply to international schools but many employers, immigration authorities and professional bodies as well. IELTS is recognized as proof of English language proficiency by over 9,000 organizations in 135 countries, so you must practice before taking the real thing.
Read on for five reasons why you should take a practice IELTS test before the real deal.
Find a study program that fits your needs on the free-to-use ApplyBoard platform today.
1. Calm your nerves
Naturally, you’re nervous. You’re worried you may fail even after practicing so much. You’re stressing because perhaps your reading capabilities aren’t strong enough. You may feel as though you are going through an emotional rollercoaster. It’s important to recognize stress and anxiety as a vicious cycle.
While nerves cause some people to do better work, it isn’t this way for everyone. For most people nerves inhibit skills and their thought processes. You stress, you can’t focus — you can’t focus so you stress. You can avoid this negative experience entirely by simply taking a practice IELTS test. By doing so, you know it isn’t “the real thing,” you get familiar with the format and what will be asked of you, and as a result, you’re less nervous because what’s there to be nervous about? You know how it goes and you don’t have to take it so seriously.
2. Practice, practice, practice
Practice is your best friend. It is essential to obtaining a good mark. Taking a practice IELTS test promotes the virtue of “practice makes perfect.” If anything, it will only improve your marks. While a perfect score may be tough to achieve, when you take a practice IELTS test, you get familiar with your level and know in advance whether or not you are qualified.
Further, you know where your areas of improvement are and can focus specifically on practicing those sections before taking the real exam. Finally, you don’t have to worry about re-doing the exam or wasting your time because you took the practice IELTS test and know what you’re capable of. You get the opportunity to review your test results and compare them with the model responses, or perhaps your last responses.
Find out how to best prepare for IELTS on our blog.
3. Improve your communication skills
Perhaps your communication skills need to be improved. When you take a practice IELTS test, you choose to practice all sections of the exam, one of them being communication. This is your chance to hash out the challenges you face and to better understand how to communicate with others. As a result, come test day, you will have no problem communicating and will surprise those marking your test.
Communication is a tough one, largely because many non-native English speakers lack the courage to speak in a language that isn’t their own. The only way to truly get comfortable with it is to communicate with others in person.
4. Refine your multitasking and time management skills
With a practice IELTS test, you can refine your multitasking abilities. The more you strengthen your communication skills, the better your listening skills, writing skills, and reading skills become. You learn to work all sections into one, begin to solve tasks altogether and avoid distractions. Further, you begin to understand how each section helps the other; how reading and writing, and listening and communicating go hand-in-hand.
With time management skills specifically, you learn to manage your time well when it comes to certain parts of the exam. You gain a better understanding of how long it may take you to write a letter versus an essay, and how much time you should delegate for each. In the grand scheme of things, this allows you to better allocate time for various general assignments in school, and even more, essay questions in an exam setting.
Discover ten affordable student cities in five countries on our blog.
5. New perspective on the skills gained
Finally, you gain a new understanding on how certain sections (such as reading and listening) come in handy while studying in Canada. Some think only communication skills are necessary to have a successful experience abroad. However, when you arrive in Canada you will quickly realize reading is essential, since everything is written in English (and French).
Sure, you may have good communication skills, but if you lack reading skills you may have a difficult time getting around the city, reading instructions, or studying English courses. Similarly, if you lack listening skills, this could inhibit your communication skills. Each section assists the other—something you will realize at the end.
Now you know why taking a practice IELTS test is so crucial. Best of luck with your practice test, and the real one too!
Do you have more questions about English Language Proficiency tests, or anything else related to studying abroad? Reach out to the team at ApplyBoard. We’re here to help!
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IELTS Academic Test
The IELTS Academic test is designed for individuals entering undergraduate or postgraduate studies, as well as those seeking professional registration. Here are some things to keep in mind when writing an IELTS Academic test:
IELTS Academic Writing Task 1
Describe and analyze the data found on one of the following:
Bar chart
Line graph
Pie Chart
Table Diagram
IELTS Academic Writing Task 2
Write a formal essay.
Note: When writing an IELTS Academic test, make sure your answers are written in a formal style.
IELTS General Test
IELTS General, as the name implies, tests everyday English, and is often taken by those migrating to an English-speaking country. Here are some things to keep in mind when writing an IELTS General test.
Write a formal essay.
Answers can range from formal to informal
Note: On an IELTS General test, answers can be written in both formal and informal contexts.
Got all that? Okay, let’s move on to the IELTS Writing tips!
Psst! Be sure to check out our study tips for the IELTS Listening, Reading, and Speaking sections.
IELTS Writing Study Tips
1. Complete Writing Task 2 First
IELTS Writing Task 2 is the same on both the Academic and General tests and many find it easier than Task 1—especially writers of the Academic test. Keep in mind that Task 2 is weighted heavier, e.g., worth more marks, than Task 1. It also takes longer to complete. For these reasons, it’s best to not only devote more time to Task 2, but to complete it first.
The reason being is that you don’t want to get stuck on Task 1 and only leave yourself 20 minutes or so to frantically complete Task 2. IELTS recommends spending 40 minutes on Task 2 and about 20 minutes on Task 1. While this is a good rule of thumb to follow, always use your own judgment. Don’t get too hung up on sticking to these exact time limits—just make sure you don’t devote more time to Task 1 than you need to.
2. Avoid Informal Writing
This IELTS writing preparation tip applies primarily to the Academic test, but is important to keep in mind for the General test as well. While your answers don’t have to be formal in style on the General test (unless you choose to write a formal letter, of course), it’s best to avoid certain informal writing practices. For instance, avoid using abbreviations—always write out the full word. Also, avoid writing in the first or second person—I, me, you—unless instructed to do so.
3. Watch Your Word Count!
One of the most challenging aspects of the IELTS Writing test is hitting the allotted word count. Contrary to popular belief, a smaller word count can actually be more of a challenge than a larger one. More words mean more space to flesh out your thoughts, but the IELTS test only allows 150 words for Task 1 and 250 words for Task 2.
That being said, it’s still important to make sure you write enough. If you write too little, your band score may be reduced. On the other hand, you can go a little over the word count without being penalized. IELTS uses a word count to test whether you can explain your thoughts clearly and succinctly. Just remember that it’s quality over quantity and you’ll be fine.
Tip: While you aren’t expected to count every single word you’ve written, you can get a rough idea of your word count by knowing in advance how many words you typically write on one line. This gives you an approximate indication of how many lines of text you’ll need to write to hit 150 and 250 words.
4. Understand the Marking Criteria
Writing is difficult to assess because it’s quite subjective. As such, the IELTS Writing band isn’t marked based on right and wrong answers. Instead, the marking criteria are as follows:
Task Response (25%)—Measures how appropriately, accurately, and relevantly your response fulfills the task requirements.
Coherence and Cohesion (25%)—Assesses the overall clarity and fluency of your response. Test scorers are looking for how well your response organizes and links information, ideas, and language.
Vocabulary (25%)—Looks at the range of your vocabulary and how well your word usage adheres to the specific task.
Grammar (25%)—Looks at the range and accuracy of your grammar.
5. Practice, Practice, Practice!
The only way to improve your writing is to keep at it. A great IELTS writing preparation tips is to consider picking up some practice test books and take as many practice tests as you can before sitting for the actual IELTS Academic or General test. The Official Cambridge Guide to IELTS is a great study resource, as it contains eight official practice tests and a step-by-step guide for each section. This will help you know exactly what kind of questions you can expect when it comes time to do the real thing.
Tip: Get someone you know with strong English writing skills to look over your practice answers and offer feedback.
Discover the 5 Best IELTS Preparation Books for International Students
6. Paraphrase, Don’t Copy
You should avoid copying any part of the question word-for-word into your response for either Task 1 or 2. If you need to use part of the question in your response, say to illustrate a point, be sure to put it into your own words. Be sure to take some time to learn how to properly paraphrase well in advance of taking the IELTS Academic or General test.
7. Make Sure You’re Actually Answering the Question
When under a strict time limit, it’s all too easy to become anxious and lose focus. Make sure you understand the actual question that’s being asked before you put pen to paper. Organizing your thoughts before you even write a word will help you craft a response that is sure to impress.
We hope these tips are helpful and that you now have a good understanding of what’s required in terms of IELTS writing preparation of the Writing section of the IELTS Academic and General tests. Good luck!
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“Historically, it’s been incredibly difficult to access international education opportunities,” says Wendy Alexander.
Wendy, the newest member of ApplyBoard’s United Kingdom Advisory Board, is now well positioned to help ApplyBoard work to solve our sector’s greatest challenges. We’re grateful to have her experience and expertise steering success in the UK.
Wendy has a formidable resume: vice-principal at the University of Dundee, Scottish Higher Education Trade envoy, advisor to Scotland’s premier growth equity firm, British Council trustee, and former leader of Scotland’s Labour Party.
The University of Dundee was named Scotland’s top university at The Herald Higher Education Awards 2023.
“I’m a doer rather than a sayer by instinct,” explains Wendy. But before her myriad professional experiences, she studied abroad.
Wendy didn’t have ApplyBoard to explore institutions and programs 50 years ago. Instead, she learned of a study abroad opportunity in Canada through her father, who himself learned of it through a cousin he sat beside at a wedding.
“Studying abroad changed the course of my life,” says Wendy.
Building a Brighter Future for UK Students
“Life is a team sport, and the higher you rise, it’s not so much about what you do individually,” Wendy Alexander explains. “It’s about who you inspire, and how you build consensus.”
At ApplyBoard, Wendy says this means ensuring alignment among her fellow UK Advisory Board members, as well as remaining motivated to further ApplyBoard’s strategic goals. Alongside Wendy, the board includes Nick Hillman, Mary Curnock Cook, Sir Steve Smith, and the Right Honourable Jo Johnson.
This collective offers guidance in solving the UK’s unique challenges. According to a 2023 survey from PA consulting, 90% of UK institution vice-chancellors believethe country’s university sector has never faced greater threats or uncertainties.
Their concerns include the decreasing value of capped tuition fees’ via inflation paired with increasing competition for international students. Further, prospective students must now navigate the UK’s May 2023 dependent policy update, which forbids international students from bringing dependents to the UK unless the student is taking postgraduate courses designated as research programmes (this mainly refers to PhDs).
For Wendy, ApplyBoard’s goal of building a more equitable education sector provides a platform for effectively addressing challenges. In particular, she admires ApplyBoard’s supply-and-demand matching, data-driven thought leadership, and best practices shared with stakeholders across our destinations.
Like us, Wendy believes building educational bridges is a service to humanity. “Educating the world is the right mission,” she says.
With experts like Wendy helping to guide ApplyBoard’s strategic direction, international students can continue depending on ApplyBoard to help them achieve study success in the UK and other top study destinations around the world.
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