Your Ultimate Guide to IELTS Preparation: Free Resources & Tools

Welcome to your one-stop guide for IELTS success, curated especially for you by Mira Book Gem! Preparing for the IELTS exam can feel like a huge challenge, but with the right resources and a structured plan, you can achieve your target score. Here at Mira Book Gem, we’ve hand-picked a comprehensive list of the best free resources, lessons, practice tests, and tools to support you on your journey. Whether you’re just starting or looking to perfect a specific skill, you’ll find everything you need right here.


First Steps: Understanding the Test

Before you start practicing, it’s crucial to understand exactly what you’re up against. Knowing the test format, question types, and scoring criteria will shape your entire study plan.

  • Official IELTS Test Format

    • Description: Get a detailed breakdown of the Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking sections directly from the official IELTS source. Understand the timing, number of questions, and what to expect on test day.
    • View Test Format

  • Official Band Score Descriptors

    • Description: This is a key document that explains what examiners are looking for at each band level (from 1 to 9) for the Speaking and Writing tests. Understanding this is essential for scoring high.
    • See Scoring Criteria


Free Preparation Courses & Lessons (Learn from Experts)

These websites provide structured lessons, strategies, and tips from experienced IELTS teachers.

  • IELTS Liz (Highly Recommended)

    • Description: Run by Liz, a former IELTS examiner, this is one of the most trusted free resources available. You’ll find clear, accurate, and easy-to-follow video lessons, sample answers, and tips for all parts of the exam.
    • Visit IELTS Liz

  • British Council: Learn English

    • Description: As one of the co-owners of the IELTS test, the British Council offers a wealth of high-quality free preparation materials, including articles, videos, and online exercises.
    • Explore British Council Resources

  • E2 Test Prep (YouTube)

    • Description: This popular YouTube channel provides excellent strategy videos, live classes, and mock tests. Their methods for approaching different question types are particularly helpful.
    • Watch on YouTube


Practice Tests & Level Assessment (Check Your Progress)

Consistent practice under exam conditions is the key to improving your score.

  • Cambridge English: Test Your English

    • Description: Not sure where you stand? Take this free general English test from Cambridge (a co-creator of IELTS) to get a quick assessment of your current level before you dive deep into IELTS-specific practice.
    • Take the Assessment

  • IELTS Online Tests

    • Description: This website contains a massive library of free, full-length practice tests. It’s an excellent resource for getting extensive practice and building your stamina for the real exam.
    • Access the Test Library

  • Official IELTS Free Practice Tests

    • Description: Always practice with official materials. IELTS.org provides free sample test questions and downloadable practice tests so you can get familiar with the real format.
    • Get Official Practice Materials


Official Test Information & Booking

When you’re ready to take the next step, use the official links to ensure you have the correct information.

  • Find an Official Test Centre

    • Description: Use the official search tool to find your nearest approved IELTS test centre, check available dates, and get contact information.
    • Find a Test Centre Near You


Take Your Preparation Further with Mira Book Gem

While these free resources are excellent, sometimes personalized feedback is what you need to break through to a higher band score. If you’re struggling with a specific area like Writing or Speaking, Mira Book Gem offers one-on-one coaching to give you that expert edge.

  • Description: Book a personalized coaching session with Miranda to review your essays, practice your speaking, and get targeted advice to boost your score.
  • Book a Coaching Session