IELTS Academic Exam Preparation

Our IELTS Course offers a programme of study for students over the age of 18, who want to improve their level of confidence, accuracy, and fluency in Communicative English language skills in preparation for the IELTS Academic Exam.  Helpful strategies and tips are part of the course.

Our English language school has gained a reputation for providing first class English language tuition and excellent student services.

We are proud to be recognized as a NZQA Category 1 provider.

‍You will be taught by our qualified and professional ESL teachers with small classes – maximum of 10 students per class (minimum 4 students) ensuring maximum individual attention.

• Lessons will take place in the morning between 8.30am and 1.00pm in the afternoon, with a half hour break included.
• Students undertake the General English morning class to improve the essential English skills needed for this exam. In the afternoon class the focus is on IELTS examination skill development.
• Students below the required examination course entry level are advised to take a General English Course until they reach the required level. Please contact ABC College of English for examination dates and for examination entry procedures. Examination fees are not included in the tuition fees for these courses

Yes, you should have an Upper Intermediate level of English to study the IELTS Academic IELTS course.  If you haven’t sat an official assessment before the following information may help you.  We can offer General English classes to get you to the level you require for Academic IELTS.

Please note: When you apply you will be directed to our pre-course English Level Indicator test. You’ll need to pass this test to enrol.

A1 (Beginner):

• You know simple phrases like “Hello” or “How are you?”
• You can introduce yourself and give basic information like your name and age.

Example Sentences:

• “My name is Maria.”
• “I am from Spain.”

A2 (Elementary):

• You understand common words and simple sentences about things like shopping or asking for directions.
• You can ask and answer questions in short conversations about everyday topics.

Example Sentences:

• “How much does this book cost?”
• “The bank is next to the supermarket.”

B1 (Intermediate):

• You understand the main ideas when people speak clearly about familiar topics like work, school, or travel.
• You can talk to people about simple subjects and write short emails or notes.

Example Sentences:

• “I have to finish this project by Friday.”
• “The museum is very interesting, and the art is beautiful.”

B2 (Upper Intermediate):

• You understand main ideas in complex conversations about more general topics like news, sports, or hobbies.
• You can talk to people easily, even about new or unfamiliar topics, and write longer emails or reports.

Example Sentences:

• “I believe the new law will have a big impact on the economy.”
• “We need to improve our team’s performance to win the next match.”

C1 (Advanced):

• You understand longer texts and can recognize hidden meanings in conversations.
• You can speak and write English confidently in school, work, and social situations.

Example Sentences:

• “Although the new policy has some advantages, its implementation poses challenges that need addressing.”
• “I think the author’s use of symbolism adds depth to the novel.”

C2 (Proficient):

• You can understand almost everything you read or hear in English.
• You can speak, write, and explain complex ideas fluently and clearly.

Example Sentences:

• “The intricacies of international trade require a comprehensive understanding of both economic and geopolitical factors.”
• “The philosopher’s argument is compelling because it balances theoretical rigor with practical application.”

A variety of nationalities from throughout Asia, South America and Europe.

The classes start at 8.30am. There is a 30-minute break at 10.30am and the second class is from 11.00-13.00.

You study for a total of 4 hours a day and 20 hours per week.

We currently offer General English Courses as well. If you’re not sure if your English is at a high enough level for the IELTS Academic Exam Prep Course, you can enrol in our General English course to get up to speed. More courses are coming in the future.

ABC College of English is located in central Queenstown. We have classes at the QRC Campus (Sir Eion Edgar House), and our additional classroom facilities located around the corner.  Our main campus is at 7 Coronation Drive, Queenstown.

Queenstown has a public bus system for the area.  The closest bus stop to ABC College of English is just a 3-minute walk from the school.

Queenstown Airport is only a 20-minute bus ride away.  Shotover Lodge is about 7 minutes by bus.

ABC College of English has a long-standing reputation for quality education in a family atmosphere where teachers and professional and caring.  “A small school with a big heart’ is how it has been described.   It is conveniently located in the centre of Queenstown, across from Queenstown Gardens and close to the shops, banks and bus stop.

As Queenstown is NZ’s premier tourism destination, you will have the ability to combine English language learning and exciting activities and amazing experiences such as snowboarding, jet boating, bungy jumping, mountain biking and hiking.

You must be 18 years of age to enrol.

Generally, yes. If you study for 14 weeks or more on a student visa you may be entitled to 20hrs per week. You can also work if you have a working holiday visa. Always check the conditions on your visa for specific details.

Yes, we have a Student Residence and Homestays.

95% of our students reside at our popular Student Residence – Shotover Lodge. Our Homestays are lovely families that have been checked and selected to work with us.  Please book early to avoid disappointment.

We aim to provide students with their accommodation requests. Please note that Queenstown is a very busy place and occasionally accommodation does book out. You will be notified if this is the case, and we always recommend booking with plenty of time in advance to avoid disappointment.