Coaching vs Self study - IELTS Preparation 101

Are you thinking of pursuing your studies overseas? 

Regardless of whether your dream study destination is Australia or New Zealand, one thing’s for sure – you’ll have to sit for the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) as it is an essential component of applying to study overseas. 

In order to successfully make it to your desired course and university, you’ll be required to achieve a minimum band score. Hence, it is crucial to take your test preparation seriously and stay committed to the process, so that you can get a good score for your IELTS. 

When it comes to your preparation, there are different approaches to take, such as self-study or undergoing a prep course. 

Hence, it helps to understand yourself and know what works best for you. After all, while you have the option to take the IELTS multiple times, why not clear it in one go by being confident and fully prepared on your test day? 

Whether you have the ability to study effectively or if you aren’t sure where to begin and how to go about preparing for your test, you’ll benefit greatly from a prep course. 

At IDP, we believe that we can help you to make the most of your test preparation, and that’s why we’ve launched our IELTS by IDP app to make your life a little easier, at least when it comes to gaining the best tools and resources for your preparation. 

If you’re curious about how a prep course can help you to pass your IELTS with flying colours, read on to discover the ways it can help!

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1. You avoid procrastination by being accountable 

When you book your IELTS test date, you’ll probably pick a date that’s quite some time away. While this gives you sufficient time to prepare on your own, it can unfortunately also create opportunities to procrastinate and take it easy since “there’s time”. 

Fortunately, this can be avoided altogether if you commit to an IELTS prep course. This is because being in a class setting – be it virtually or physically – will put you in study mode and you’ll have to block out your time according to the lessons. 

2. You have skin in the game (monetary commitment) 

While self-study might appear to be the more cost-efficient way to prepare for your test since you aren’t spending any money, it might make you less invested in the process. 

On the other hand, when you make payment for a prep course, you will feel the pinch and have the motivation to put in more effort, show up for classes and give it your all when preparing – so as to ace your test and not waste the money you’ve spent. 

3. You have a single source of true information 

There’s no doubt that you can easily turn to Google or YouTube for information when preparing for the IELTS. However, this might be counterproductive since you’ll be obtaining the information in bits rather than all at once. 

Also, there will be different sources that tell you similar things in different ways, which might create confusion and hinder your learning. 

However, your prep course would be your only source of accurate information that gets straight to the point, answers all your questions and acts as your go-to source for all things IELTS-related. 

4. You have study materials provided 

One of the most valuable parts of a prep course is the range of study materials that will be provided. From practice papers to lessons that offer guidance to help you improve your language skills, you’ll gain access to a wealth of IELTS preparation materials that can be a game changer. 

You’ll be able to fully utilise your study materials by clocking in some extra practice and even identifying your weaknesses so you can spend time focusing on these areas and build your confidence. 

5. There will be a planned methodology for success 

If it is your first time going through the preparation process, chances are you will not know where to begin or what the best methods are to set yourself up for success. 

However, your prep course would be more structured in this aspect and you’ll have the tools and resources to help you along the way. Thus, you’ll have a clearer preparation plan mapped out for you and this will keep you more organised.

Access your IELTS study plan

If you’re wondering how to go about mapping out plans for your IELTS test preparation, look no further.

With decades of experience in helping students to prepare, we’re certain that we can do the same for you so that you can pass your IELTS with flying colours! 

Improve your English skills with IELTS

Access our practice materials and get prepared with our wide range of practice tests. Additionally, don't forget to download your free IELTS Preparation Guide and get tips from our IELTS Experts by registering for an IELTS Masterclass.

Want to practice and improve your English skills?

Download the IELTS by IDP App to get access to IELTS preparation materials, including an app-exclusive IELTS Preparation Course developed by the Macquarie University experts.
You can also book your test, register for events, take quizzes, and check your results on the go, all in one app!