How To Pass IELTS Exam In Nigeria With A 7.5 Band Score | 10 Easy Steps

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is an essential exam for individuals who want to study or work in countries where English is the primary language. In Nigeria, the exam is highly competitive, and achieving a 7.5 band score requires extensive preparation and dedication. However, with the right strategy and guidance, passing the IELTS exam in Nigeria can be more straightforward than you think.

This post, by MyStudentKit Team, provides ten easy steps on how to pass the IELTS exam in Nigeria with a 7.5 band score; carefully read through.

What Is The IELTS All About?

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a standardized test that measures the English language proficiency of non-native speakers. It is widely accepted as proof of English language proficiency by organizations, universities, and governments worldwide. The test assesses four language skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking.

It is offered in two formats: the Academic version, intended for those who want to study at the tertiary level, and the General Training version, intended for those who want to work or migrate to an English-speaking country. The test is graded on a 9-band scale, with 9 being the highest level of proficiency.

You may, however, take the IELTS UKVI or IELTS for Life Skills Test if you need the test for immigration to the UK under certain conditions.

Why Do Nigerians Take The IELTS?

Because of attitudes, mother tongue interference, and a lack of a conducive learning environment, non-native English speakers, such as Nigerians, face the daunting task of mastering the language. Nigerians who plan to travel to the United Kingdom, the United States, or Australia for academic or professional reasons must have their English proficiency certified through the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).

According to the guardian.ng, Nigeria’s exemption is not justified by the fact that it was once a British colony and now uses English as its official and second language. The linguistic landscape of Nigeria reveals that 90% of the population speaks Pidgin, dialects, and Nigerian English, while the remaining 10% struggle with Queen’s English. This means it did not meet the UK’s criterion of at least 51% of Nigerians being able to communicate effectively in English.

While the above assertion may be argued, here are a few statistically proven reasons why Nigerian stake the IELTS:

• IELTS is used worldwide for various reasons, including for work, study, and migration. 
• Over 11,000 organizations in 140 countries recognize the IELTS test. 
• Experts globally have developed the IELTS test. 
• The test is analyzed and monitored to assure fairness for test takers, regardless of their native background, gender, education, etc.

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How Is The IELTS Test Scored?

This is a common question asked by Nigerians seeking to take the IELTS. The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is scored on a 9-band scale, with each band corresponding to a level of English language proficiency. The test is scored in four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Each section is scored differently, and then an overall band score is calculated based on the average of the four scores. The overall band score ranges from 1 (non-user) to 9 (expert user).

Let’s take a look at the different IELTS band scores:

The different band scores and their corresponding levels of proficiency are as follows:

• Band 9: Expert user – The test takes has a fully operational command of the language with only occasional unsystematic inaccuracies.
• Band 8: Very good user – The test taker has an excellent command of the language, with only a few minor errors. They are adept at dealing with difficult situations. They may misinterpret unfamiliar situations.
• Band 7: Good user – The candidate has operational command of the language, although there are occasional errors and miscommunications in specific circumstances. Typically has little trouble understanding intricate logic and handling complicated language.
• Band 6: Competent user – The test taker has a generally effective command of the language despite some inaccuracies and misunderstandings. Can use and understand fairly complex language, particularly in familiar situations.
• Band 5: Modest user – The test taker has a basic understanding of the English language and can deal with general meaning. They make numerous errors. They are capable of handling basic communication in their field.
• Band 4: Limited user – Only uses basic skills in known contexts. frequently has communication and comprehension issues.
• Band 3: Extremely limited user – Conveys and understands only broad concepts in circumstances that are highly familiar. Communication breakdowns happen frequently.
• Band 2: Intermittent user – Only the most basic information can be communicated using single words or brief phrases in familiar settings and to address immediate needs.
• Band 1: Non-user – Unable to utilize language beyond a few isolated words.

Keep in mind that each institution may have its own requirements for the minimum band score they will accept.

Can I Pass The IELTS As A Nigerian?

Anybody can pass the IELTS exam irrespective of where you are coming from. If you want to pass the IELTS as a Nigerian, you need to prepare for the exam by studying the IELTS STUDY MATERIAL. This gives you an idea of what to expect in the exam and how best to answer each question in a section.

Preparing for this exam necessitates a focus on several areas of English, including: • Speaking • Listening • Writing • Reading

Before you start worrying, keep in mind that the difficulty perceived varies from person to person. Someone may tell you that the listening and reading sections were the most difficult, while another may tell you that the writing and speaking sections were the most difficult.

The IELTS exam will be difficult for you depending on how much you practice ahead of time, your learning style, and your ability to retain what you learned. The best way to begin your exam preparation is to conduct a self-assessment of the various examination areas.

Please feel free to explore our website further for test preparation materials and practice tests.

You may want to check out Top 23 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) On Study Abroad | All You Should Know

10 Easy Tips On How To Pass The IELTS Exam In Nigeria

IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is a standardized test designed to measure the English language proficiency of non-native speakers who want to study or work in countries where English is the primary language. In Nigeria, passing the IELTS exam is essential for those who want to study abroad or immigrate to an English-speaking country. Here are ten easy tips that can help you pass the IELTS exam in Nigeria.

1. Familiarize yourself with the test format

The IELTS exam has four sections: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Understanding the format and requirements of each section is crucial to your success in the exam. You can find sample questions and practice tests by purchasing our IELTS study material.

The Listening and Speaking components are the same for both tests, but the Reading and Writing components differ.

2. Practice regularly

The key to improving your English language proficiency is to practice regularly. Set aside time daily to practice reading, writing, listening, and speaking in English. You can read English newspapers, books, and magazines, watch English movies and TV shows, and listen to English music and podcasts.

3. Build your vocabulary

A strong vocabulary is essential for success in the IELTS exam. You should aim to learn at least ten new words daily and use them in context. You can use flashcards or word lists to help you memorize new words and practice using them in sentences.

Sign up to get our IELTS STUDY MATERIAL

4. Improve your grammar

Good grammar is essential for clear and effective communication in English. You should review the basic rules of English grammar and practice using them in context. You can find grammar exercises and quizzes online or in IELTS preparation books.

5. Use a variety of sentence structures

Using a variety of sentence structures can make your writing more interesting and engaging. You should practice using simple, compound, and complex sentences in your writing and speaking. This can also help you to express yourself more clearly and effectively.

6. Manage your time effectively

The IELTS exam is timed, and you will need to manage your time effectively to complete all sections within the allotted time. Practice timing yourself during practice tests and aim to complete each section within the given time limit.

7. Practice active listening

Active listening is an essential skill for success in the listening section of the IELTS exam. You should practice listening for the main ideas, details, and tone of a conversation or lecture. You can also practice taking notes while listening to help you remember key points.

8. Use formal language

The IELTS exam requires you to use formal language in your writing and speaking. You should avoid using slang or informal language and practice using formal language in your everyday communication.

9. Focus on accuracy and fluency

Accuracy and fluency are both essential for success in the IELTS exam. You should aim to be accurate in your use of grammar and vocabulary while also speaking and writing fluently. You can practice by recording yourself speaking and analyzing your performance.

10. Take IELTS preparation courses

Taking IELTS preparation courses can improve your English language proficiency and prepare you for the exam. You can find IELTS preparation guides HERE. These courses can provide guidance and support as you prepare for the exam.

Following these tips can improve your English language proficiency and increase your chances of success in the IELTS exam. Remember to practice regularly, manage your time effectively, and focus on accuracy and fluency in your communication. With dedication and hard work, you can pass the IELTS exam and achieve your academic or professional goals.

How To Buy IELTS Study Guide In Nigeria

MystudentKit has the best IELTS study guide for Nigerian candidates. Our materials are comprehensive and exclusively made for IELTS aspirants.

Written by Cambridge ESOL examiners and material writers with many years of experience preparing IELTS tests, the MystudentKit IELTS study pack shows candidates how each test is assessed and provides valuable tips on how to answer each question in a section.

The IELTS material contains:

• Practice tests for Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing (both Academic and General Training).
• Listening, Reading, and Writing answer sheets.
• Listening and Reading practice test answer keys and Listening tapescripts.
• Sample candidate Writing responses and examiner remarks.
• Sample candidate Speaking tests and examiner comments.

The DVD includes three students taking the Speaking test as well as practice Listening tests for candidates.

Here’s how to get the IELTS study material on MystudentKit:

How To Pass IELTS Speaking Section As A Nigerian

The IELTS Speaking section assesses your ability to communicate effectively in English. Here are some tips to help you pass this section:

1. Familiarize yourself with the test format

Make sure you know what to expect from the test. The IELTS Speaking section consists of three parts, and each part has a specific format and time limit. Part 2 of the IELTS Speaking test demands you to speak on a given topic for about 2 minutes. Therefore, it’s advised you practice common IELTS topics with friends, family, or colleagues to improve and learn the vocabulary associated with each topic.

Here are a few topics you can practice for the Speaking test include:

• Tourism and travel
• Transport
• Crime and punishment
• Family life
• Environment
• Sport and recreation
• Education
• The Internet
• Advertising and retail

You can combine these tips with our IELTS practice materials to increase your chances of scoring high in the IELTS.

2. Practice speaking English

Practice speaking English as much as possible. Speak with friends, family members, or language exchange partners. This will help you get comfortable with the language and build confidence. As the saying goes, practice makes perfect, so, with plenty of exercises, you will be well on your way to achieving the band number you require in your IELTS Speaking exam.

3. Improve your vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary by reading and listening to English as much as possible. Use flashcards or online resources to help you remember new words.

You may be easily tempted to impress the examiner with big and complicated words in your Speaking test. But to be safe, avoid using ambiguous words. You are likely to make mistakes by either mispronouncing words or using them in the wrong context. Mistakes can affect your final band score.

Conclusively, always use a range of vocabulary that you know is relevant to the topic being discussed.

4. Work on your pronunciation

Pay attention to your pronunciation, intonation, and stress. Make sure you are pronouncing words correctly and clearly.

In addition, don’t speak in a monotone. When we talk, we sometimes create a flat, monotone sound with little variance. This makes it more difficult to articulate yourself and for the audience to determine which portions of your message are essential. Putting stress on specific terms and stopping at key points in your speaking can help you have a more interesting discussion with the IELTS tester.

When we emphasize specific words, we make it simpler to compare and contrast concepts by emphasizing important words. It also improves the pace of discussion, so keep this in mind:

• Don’t speak in a monotone
• Alter the stress and intonation to add emphasis
• Use your hands to gesture and help the rhythm of the conversation

We also have relevant Past Questions for various Recruitment Tests Like UBA bank recruitment, First Bank Recruitment and lots more.

5. Be concise and to the point

Ensure you answer the questions directly and concisely. Avoid rambling or going off-topic. When answering questions, you can use examples to support your answers. This will show that you can communicate effectively and in detail.

6. Don’t worry about your accent

With a face-to-face meeting Unlike an AI computer, the IELTS examiner knows a broad variety of accents and will be able to comprehend what you say during the speaking examination. There is nothing to fear if you can converse effectively. However, be mindful of any sounds that you find challenging, and remember to use emphasis and intonation because English is a stress-timed language. Practice with people who will let you know if they don’t comprehend what you’re saying.

Don’t worry about your Nigerian accent, just speak naturally and confidently. Your focus should be on communicating effectively and clearly and not worrying about making mistakes, and your Nigerian accent.

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7. Stay calm and confident

Try to stay calm and confident during the test. Take deep breaths if you need to and remind yourself that you have prepared well. Don’t forget to smile at intervals, it calms the nerves and helps you pronounce words properly.

8. Practice time management

Make sure you manage your time well during the test. Don’t spend too much time on one question, as this can affect your performance in other parts of the test. For this reason, you need to get familiar with the IELTS speaking section by going through our study guide repeatedly. Click here to get yours.

9. Avoid using filler words

Speak with confidence and prevent unnecessary use of fillers. When we don’t know what to say, we usually use fillers; however, this shows the evaluator that you can’t access the proper words or ideas, so it’s essential to avoid them.

Avoid the following fillers:

• Like
• You know
• Umm…
• Ahh…
• Ehh…
• Well
• Yeah…

Is The IELTS Exam Hard For Nigerians?

While many Nigerians may not be fully convinced that they are a native-English-speaking country, just like the fellows in the U.S., U.K., Australia, etc, scoring high has nothing to do with native English speakers but continuous practice.

With this, mystudentkit team is of the opinion that the IELTS exam is not hard for Nigerians that practice for the exam. One of the things that scare people is the lack of practice

No, it is not. One of the things that make a lot of people fail is FEAR which is not real. It is crucial to remember that the IELTS test is an English language test, thus if English is your first language, all you need to do to succeed is prepare as you would for any other significant exam.

Is It Possible To Fail The IELTS Exam?

It’s impossible to fail the IELTS exam. This is because the IELTS does not have the pass or fail option. Candidates are scored based on how well they perform in the test, with scores ranging from 1 to 9 for each of the four test sections. After the section scoring, you’ll get a total score based on the outcome of your performance in the four sections of the test.

According to a survey conducted on ieltsfreeway.com, over 51% of IELTS test takers don’t get their desired score on their first trial. What this means is that most test takers get to experience the test twice before hitting their desired score. However, there are exceptions.

To score high on your first attempt, you need to first, identify your current level, strengths, and weaknesses, create a realistic plan for your preparation, give yourself enough time to prepare before the exam, and work with a tutor that can provide you with feedback to help you improve and achieve the band level you need.

READ ALSO: How To Prepare For IELTS Exam At Home In 2023 | Expert Advice

What Is The IELTS Pass Rate In Nigeria?

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a globally recognized English language proficiency test used for education, migration, and work purposes. The IELTS pass rate in Nigeria varies depending on the test taker’s proficiency level and the purpose of taking the test.

According to the British Council, which is one of the organizations that administer the IELTS in Nigeria, the average pass rate for the IELTS in Nigeria is around 60%. However, the pass rate can vary depending on the specific test center and location.

It is also important to note that the IELTS does not have a pass or fail score. Instead, test takers receive a score between 0 and 9 for each of the four language skills tested: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The overall band score is an average of these four scores, rounded to the nearest half-band.

Most educational institutions and immigration programs require a minimum band score for admission or eligibility, which can vary depending on the program and institution. In general, a band score of 6.0 or higher is considered a good score for academic and work purposes, while a score of 7.0 or higher is often required for admission to top universities or professional programs.

How Can I Register For IELTS In Nigeria?

You can register for the IELTS in Nigeria by taking the following 3 steps:

Step 1 – Find your nearest test centre

With over 1,500 IELTS test locations in over 50 countries, you can simply search the website for a nearby test location in Nigeria.

Step 2 – Visit the website

You can register or IELTSin Nigeria on the website and pay online. To get started, all you need to do is select the country and the city, then choose the test type module – IELTS Academic or IELTS General Training and IELTS on paper or IELTS on a computer – then choose your preferred date, and that’s it. Follow the same process if you wish to register for IELTS for UKVI.  

In the course of registration, you must present a copy of your valid identification document, which will also be needed on the day of the test.

Step 3 – Your IELTS test is booked

When you schedule your IELTS test – IELTS on paper or IELTS on a computer – and your application is approved, your test center will send you an email with the date and time of your exam. Your test center will also clarify whether or not your Speaking exam will be moved to a different day.

How Much Does It Cost To Register For IELTS In Nigeria

As of the day of this writing, to register for IELTS in Nigeria costs:

Tests we offer	Fee
IELTS Academic – in centre (paper or computer)	₦83,000
IELTS General Training – in centre (paper or computer)	₦83,000
IELTS Academic for UKVI – in centre (paper or computer)	₦89,500
IELTS General Training for UKVI – in centre (paper or computer)	₦89,500
IELTS Life Skills (A1 and B1)	₦80,000

PLEASE NOTE: From 1 May 2023, there will be a price increase for IELTS tests offered by the British Council. The new prices will be NGN 89,500 for IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training, NGN 96,500 for UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), and NGN 86,250 for Life Skills. The new prices are necessary to sustain the high quality of standards for your testing experience.
Thank you for choosing the British Council.

IELTS test fees can be paid in three different ways:

• You can pay online using a credit card
• You can pay in cash if you register for IELTS offline at any of our IDP IELTS branches
• You can pay through a bank transfer

FAQs On How To Pass IELTS In Nigeria

Conclusion

Passing the IELTS exam with a 7.5 band score requires discipline, dedication, and a solid study plan. By following the ten easy steps outlined in this post, you can increase your chances of success and achieve the band score you need to achieve your academic or professional goals. Remember to stay focused, practice consistently, and seek guidance from experienced tutors or mentors. With perseverance and effort, you can successfully pass the IELTS exam in Nigeria and open up new opportunities for your future.

References

• britishcouncl.org.ng – Take IELTS with the British Council
• ieltsfreeway.com – Failed IELTS? Here’s What You Need To Know
• livexp.com – 6 Reasons Why Students Don’t Achieve a Band 7 in IELTS

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