The Canadian Experience Class will require you to demonstrate your proficiency in English or French. A test that is acceptable, among a few, is the IELTS test for English. This is a hurdle that many immigrants face before coming to Canada. Below are some helpful tips to bolster your confidence and get you on the path to the high test scores you seek.

Research the Test

Knowing as much as you can about the test itself is just as helpful as knowing the material. Having an understanding of what to expect will help you anticipate what and how you need to study. There is a wealth of information online about the test format, the sections, mock questions/tests etc., that will help prepare you for what to expect when you are writing the test. Preparation is half the battle, and you will want to walk into the exam knowing what to expect rather than be surprised.

Know your Weaknesses

Knowing yourself and where you need the most work is the first place you should begin when preparing your study material. You should address your weakness and not shy away from them in order not only to increase your chances for success but also to improve your proficiency genuinely. Write a mock test and gauge where you need the most work. Let that be your starting point, and build from there.

Comprehend, Don’t Memorize

There is a difference between knowing what you are saying and simply repeating commonly used phrases. You will be no further ahead as a student of English, and you won’t be fooling anyone, including your adjudicator. Take the time to comprehend what you are trying to express, and before you know it, you will be saying a lot more than you think.

Read, Speak and Think in English

Immerse yourself in English as much as you can. Try to even think in English. It will take some determination, but the more you expose yourself to the language, the more you will pick up naturally. Get some local magazines, library books or other reading material in English, watch English TV, and encourage other English speakers to converse with you in English. Soon it will become second nature.

Practice, Practice, Practice and Repeat

You should set aside time every day to learn new concepts as well as review and strengthen what you have already learned. Repetition is the key to learning any language, and it takes a great deal of practice to master a language.

Practice on Retention

The listening portion of the exam will test your ability to understand what you are hearing. With the written portion, if you do not understand something, you can simply go back to read it. This is obviously not the case with the listening portion of the exam. You will need to be able to listen, retain the information and express it correctly.

Know your Timing

The IELTS test is a timed exam. When you are ready, start writing mock exams and testing your time. The test is composed of listening, reading and writing tests that, all together, add up to 2.5 hours long. Work hard at increasing your personal speed to be sure you complete each section to the best of your ability.

A Formal Class may Help.

You can do anything you put your mind to if you work hard enough at it. For those who like a little guidance, there are a variety of courses available to you to help get you prepared for your test.