Move to Canada with IELTS General Training
Get the score your immigration file needs. Prepare in person at our school in Algiers. Here is which test to take, when to take it and how to register in Algeria.
What is IELTS General Training?
IELTS General Training measures your English in everyday and work situations. It is the version of IELTS used for migration.
It tests the same four skills as IELTS Academic: listening, reading, writing and speaking. Listening and Speaking are identical in both versions. Reading and Writing are different.
What Canada requires
These rules come from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), for Express Entry.
General Training only
IRCC asks for the IELTS General Training option. IELTS Academic is not accepted for Express Entry.
No One Skill Retake
IRCC does not accept the IELTS One Skill Retake for Express Entry. If you need a better score, you retake the full test.
Results under two years old
Your result must be less than two years old when you complete your profile and when you submit your application.
Requirements change and depend on your programme. The Nest teaches English and does not give immigration advice: always check the IRCC website for your own file.
When should you take it?
Know your target first
Your programme sets the minimum level you need. Higher scores can also give you more points. Decide your target before you start preparing.
Watch the two-year limit
If you test too early, your result can expire before you are invited to apply. Plan the test around your file, not the other way round.
Leave room for a second try
If you miss your target, you retake the full test. Book early and keep a few weeks free.
Prepare before you book
Take full mock tests first. When your practice scores reach your target, you are ready to book.
The test, section by section
In Algeria, the British Council has offered all IELTS tests on computer since 30 April 2026. The format, the questions and the scoring are the same as on paper.
From IELTS bands to Canadian levels
Express Entry does not use your bands directly. IRCC converts the score of each skill into a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level. Here are three common levels.
Each skill is converted on its own. Check the full IRCC chart for your programme.
How to register for the official test in Algeria
The Nest is not a test centre. You register and pay with the British Council, which runs the official IELTS test centres in Algeria.
Choose IELTS General Training
Not Academic. Check which one your programme asks for. For university study, see Study abroad.
Pick a centre and a date
Check the test centres and the available dates on the British Council Algeria website.
Get your ID ready
Use a valid passport or national ID card. You must bring the same document on test day.
Register and pay
Follow the British Council instructions, by bank transfer or cash, and send your payment receipt as they ask.
Take the test, then use your result
On computer, results usually arrive within a few days. Keep the date: your two years start there.
Fees and dates change: always check the official website.
Prepare for IELTS General Training
With a teacher, one to one
In person in AlgiersLive onlineA pack of 24 hours, with 6 hours for each skill. Prices on request.
Online practice
First mock test availableA full General Training mock test is available on the platform. More tests and the mini exercises are coming soon.
Frequently asked questions
Can I prepare in person?
Yes. We prepare students for IELTS General Training one to one, at our school in Algiers or live online. Online practice on the platform is coming soon.
Can I use IELTS Academic for Canada?
Not for Express Entry. IRCC asks for IELTS General Training.
Which score do I need?
It depends on your programme. Check the IRCC requirements for your own file, then set your target.
How long is my result valid?
It must be less than two years old when you complete your profile and when you apply.
Can I retake only one skill?
Not for Express Entry. IRCC does not accept the One Skill Retake.
Do you give immigration advice?
No. We prepare you for the English test. For your file, check the IRCC website or ask a regulated professional.
Is The Nest an official test centre?
No. We are an independent preparation school. The official test is run by the test centres.