IELTS test takers from smaller cities on rise

Chinese takers of the International English Language Testing System, more commonly known as IELTS, are becoming increasingly diverse in their motivations and regional backgrounds, reflecting how globalization and workplace demands are reshaping English learning across the country, according to an industry report.

Studying abroad remains the primary goal, though more candidates are now taking IELTS to advance their careers and strengthen their international competitiveness, according to the latest 2024-25 IELTS test-taker performance data report released by the British Council during the 26th China Annual Conference and Expo for International Education (CACIE).

The report, based on IELTS data points, highlights a widening geographic participation base. Test takers from second- and third-tier cities in China are closing the gap with those in top-tier regions, as digital learning tools and broader access to English education help level the playing field.

"The role of English has evolved from a communication tool to a key competency for global engagement," said Tiffany You, director of examinations for British Council China.

"Through its communication-oriented philosophy, the IELTS test not only supports test takers in achieving academic and career goals, but also promotes the shift in English education toward contextualized application and competency development."

For the 2024-25 testing year, the Chinese mainland IELTS Academic test takers achieved an average overall score of 5.9, ranking 35th globally. Around 60 percent scored 6.0 or above — a slight decrease from last year, but still indicating overall stability.

The familiar pattern of "strong reading, weaker speaking" persists. Writing (5.7) and speaking (5.5) remain challenging for many test takers, yet both skills have shown the most improvement since 2018-19, suggesting steady progress in output language abilities.

Shanghai continues to lead in average scores, though regional gaps are narrowing as English education resources become more evenly distributed. The growing emphasis on scenario-based learning, online preparation tools and supportive education policies has accelerated improvement in second to third-tier cities, according to You.

The report shows a diversification of study destinations and application strategies. While the United Kingdom remains the top destination, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region has climbed to second place, followed by Australia, with more students now considering options in Asia and Europe.

At the same time, motivations are shifting. Over half of Chinese IELTS candidates plan to apply to institutions in multiple countries, and a growing proportion cite career advancement and employability — not just academic study — as key reasons for choosing the destinations.

Workplace demand for English proficiency is also rising. According to the British Council's survey, 55 percent of working professionals reported job or promotion requirements involving IELTS scores, while 86 percent said IELTS preparation improved their professional communication skills. Eighty-five percent believed the test's skill set directly aligns with real workplace needs.

These insights reinforce the view of IELTS as a "bridge from academic to professional success", supporting both educational and career mobility.

You said that since the British Council began co-operating with China's National Education Examinations Authority in 2004, the two sides have served tens of millions of test takers and accumulated extensive data insights.

"We hope this report provides valuable references for educators, training institutions and researchers, while continuing to inspire innovation in English education in China," she said.