The International English Language Testing System or IELTS is an English Language Proficiency Test for Non-native English Speakers. The Test comprises of four Sub-tests (Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking) that measures the ability of a Non-native English speaker to communicate in English. The IELTS Test is intended for Professionals and Students who wish to work or study in countries where the Test is applicable.
IELTS is a requirement for Nurses wishing to go and work to America, UK, Australia and New Zealand.
For Nurses going to America, a minimum IELTS Over-all Band Score of 6.5 enables them to get their CGFNS Certificate and with a Speaking band score of 7 will get them their Visa Screen from ICHP, a division of CGFNS.
For Nurses going to the UK, the NMC requirement is that they should have an Over-all Band Score of 6.5 with no score lower than 5.5 in either of the "Listening" and "Reading" sub-tests and no score lower than 6 in either of the "Writing" and "Speaking" sub-tests.
Medical Technologists wishing to go and work to the U.S. are also required to pass the IELTS Test with an Over-all Band Score of 6.5 and 7 Band Score in "Speaking"
Immigrants bound for Canada, New Zealand or Australia, either by a Family Petition or Sponsorship or those categorized as "Skilled Migration" are also required to show proof of English proficiency and hence, also can take the IELTS Test.