Are you confused about whether to use British English or American English in your IELTS exam? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many IELTS aspirants face this dilemma when preparing for the test. In this article, we will provide you with clarity and guidance on which English language style to choose for your IELTS exam.
What is IELTS, and is IELTS British or American?
Let’s start by understanding what IELTS actually is. IELTS stands for International English Language Testing System, and as the name suggests, it is an international exam. This means that it is not specific to any particular style of English, be it IELTS UK English or IELTS American English.
So, whether you choose to write “color” or “colour,” it won’t affect your IELTS scores. Many students mistakenly believe that using a particular style of English will lead to a lower band score, but this is not true. You won’t lose marks for using either British or American English.
Which English is perfect for me?
Now that we’ve established that both British and American English are accepted in the IELTS exam, you can choose the English language style that you are most comfortable with. Whether you opt for UK English or US English, IELTS examiners will evaluate your performance equally, regardless of the language style you use.
However, it’s important to note that you cannot mix both language styles in the exam. You must follow only one English style throughout your writing or speaking tasks—consistency is key.
Why can’t I use both languages?
The reason you should avoid using both British and American English is that they are considered separate forms of English. Once you start using one language style, the examiner will assume that you intend to continue in the same style. If you switch to the other style later in your exam, it will be seen as a spelling mistake and could negatively affect your Lexical Resource score.
American and British Vocabulary List
It’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the main differences between American and British vocabularies. There are many websites and blogs that provide lists of American English and British English vocabulary for reference. The more you practice using these vocabularies in your preparation for the IELTS exam, the better your chances of scoring high.
Having a strong command of English vocabulary is beneficial for both Academic and General IELTS, as it can significantly boost your overall score.
FAQs
Which English should I use in IELTS?
You can use either British or American English in your IELTS exam. Choose the style that you are most comfortable with and ensure consistency throughout the exam.
Is IELTS listening British or American?
IELTS listening tests include both British and American accents, as the aim is to test your ability to understand different English accents and dialects.
Should I use British or American English?
The choice between British and American English is entirely up to you. Use the style that you are most familiar with and confident in using.
Which English is preferred, British or American?
Both British and American English are equally accepted in the IELTS exam. The preference lies with your personal familiarity and comfort with the language style.