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4 Online IELTS Training Platforms to Ace Your English Test for University Admission

Who says you need to enrol in a language school to prepare for the IELTS exam? Thanks to innovative online platforms, you can now prepare for the IELTS Test for Academic English (covering the four mandatory sections – Reading, Speaking, Listening, and Writing) from the comfort of your home. These platforms are not only convenient but also more affordable than attending specialised training centres.

In this blog, we review four excellent online IELTS preparation platforms to help you make an informed choice and achieve the scores you need for international university admission:

  1. IELTS Test Online – Impact Learning Services, New Zealand
  2. IELTS Academic Test Preparation – EdX, United States
  3. IELTS Magoosh – United States
  4. E2Language – Australia

We’ve evaluated these platforms based on key features like usability, materials, test simulation, speaking test practice, progress tracking, fees, and overall value. Let’s dive in!

1. Platform Usability and Design

  • IELTS Test Online: While it offers a wealth of resources, its outdated design and cluttered navigation can be a hurdle for new users.
  • IELTS Academic Test Preparation: Sleek, modern, and intuitive. Subtitled videos, icons, and FAQs make navigation effortless.
  • IELTS Magoosh: Simple and straightforward, with user-friendly progress tracking. However, test submission design could be improved.
  • E2Language: Modern, intuitive, and customisable. The tutorial gets you started quickly, but tracking progress requires a higher-tier package.

2. IELTS Preparation Materials

  • IELTS Test Online: Offers 80+ interactive lessons, 350 videos, an 800-page e-book, and downloadable audio files. Suitable for all proficiency levels (5.0–9.0).
  • IELTS Academic Test Preparation: Extensive video lessons and exercises, with additional activities for premium users.
  • IELTS Magoosh: Over 700 hours of material covering all test sections, including grammar lessons. Lessons are well-structured and detailed.
  • E2Language: Free users access basic materials, while paid users enjoy teacher evaluations, live classes, and tailored study plans.

3. Test Simulation Experience

  • IELTS Test Online: Includes 15 preparation tests per section with unlimited retakes and a band score estimator.
  • IELTS Academic Test Preparation: Lessons naturally integrate exercises and test simulations, but practice tests are limited for free users.
  • IELTS Magoosh: Provides realistic timed tests but lacks intuitive design for inputting answers.
  • E2Language: Features well-structured lessons and mock tests, with additional teacher feedback for paid plans.

4. Speaking Test Practice

  • IELTS Test Online: Allows recording and playback but lacks personalised feedback.
  • IELTS Academic Test Preparation: Enables users to compare their recordings with example answers.
  • IELTS Magoosh: No feedback provided but offers example answers.
  • E2Language: Paid users can discuss results with teachers, enhancing preparation.

5. Tracking Progress and Test Evaluation

  • IELTS Test Online: Offers score summaries and lesson completion rates for easy tracking.
  • IELTS Academic Test Preparation: Keeps track of progress with detailed test breakdowns and correct answer explanations.
  • IELTS Magoosh: Tracks progress via marked lessons but could improve score visibility.
  • E2Language: Provides detailed progress analysis for paid users, with teacher feedback for failed tests.

6. Fees and Subscription Duration

  • IELTS Test Online: $45 for 45 days, $90 for 90 days.
  • IELTS Academic Test Preparation: Free for basic use; $99 for a certificate and extra tests (8-week access).
  • IELTS Magoosh: $59 for 1 month, $69 for 3 months, $99 for 6 months.
  • E2Language: Tiered plans from $69 (3 months) to $379 (12 months).

Final Thoughts

  • IELTS Test Online: Ideal for test-takers who need comprehensive practice but can tolerate outdated visuals.
  • IELTS Academic Test Preparation: Perfect for beginners seeking an accessible and modern interface, with limited free content.
  • IELTS Magoosh: Best for serious learners willing to pay for extensive resources and high-quality preparation.
  • E2Language: Great for interactive learners, especially those benefiting from teacher feedback and live lessons.

Whether you prefer a free introductory course or an immersive, paid experience, these platforms cater to various learning needs. So, choose the one that suits you best, start preparing today, and secure your dream university admission!

What are you waiting for? Explore these platforms, and conquer the IELTS test!