Before IELTS preparation, we conduct a consultation with our methodologist for each student. This helps us determine the individual's starting level and design a daily study plan.

• Her grammar level was approximately 5.5-6.0. She had many passive skills, but she did not use them actively.
  
  
• Her vocabulary was also at 5.5-6.0.
  
  
• Her speaking fluency was around 5.5-6.0.
  
  
• Her coherence in speech was at 5.5. She struggled with organizing and expressing her ideas correctly.
  
  
• Her pronunciation was at a level of 6.0.
  
  

During the consultation, we always assess which areas to focus on to achieve the desired score. Some skills are easier to develop, while others are more challenging. Maria immediately expressed her difficulties. She found it very hard to speak and write in English. Therefore, we could not place the main emphasis on the Speaking and Writing sections.

However, she had a solid foundation in vocabulary and grammar. This could be further developed.

In this case, we decided to focus on improving her English level. Our goal was to activate her grammar and vocabulary. We also aimed to train the Listening and Reading sections to maximize her scores in those areas. At the same time, we aimed to raise her Writing and Speaking scores to at least 6.5. This would confirm her Upper-Intermediate level. By excelling in the other sections, she could achieve a higher overall score. Our strategy was successful.

Maria's preparation strategy began with improving her General English level in the "Fluent Boost" course, which lasted for 1.5 months.

Course Content for Improving Spoken English:

• Grammar: Clear and practical grammar was taught using real-life examples. This enabled Maria to not only identify grammatical structures but also use them effectively.
  
  
• Vocabulary: The course focused on high-frequency topic vocabulary. This vocabulary was reinforced through reading, writing, and speaking tasks.
  
  
• Reading: The texts were designed based on the grammar and vocabulary covered. Working with these texts helped Maria recognize and use them naturally.
  
  
• Listening: The course included practice with audio recordings featuring familiar language patterns. This trained her listening skills and improved comprehension.
  
  
• Writing Tasks: These assignments helped Maria review and enhance the accuracy and clarity of her writing.
  
  
• Videos with Native Speakers: Authentic English was presented in real-life contexts. These videos helped Maria grasp intonation, pronunciation, and rhythm.
  
  
• Speaking Practice: Both group and individual sessions allowed Maria to actively use her English in conversation.
  
  

Immediately after that, we started the "IELTS YouSkill" exam preparation course, which lasted 1.5 months. In this course, we cover 15-20 vocabulary and grammar topics. These topics help students master the essential subjects and demonstrate their active use in both spoken and written English during the exam.

This course also includes:

• 24 individual sessions with a personal tutor, based on real IELTS exam tasks.
  - Each session lasts 20 minutes.
  - Each lesson focuses on the most challenging areas.
  - Homework is reviewed separately to maximize active practice time.
  
  
• 120 structured lessons on the learning platform.
  
  
• 120 homework assignments, evaluated by a professional course mentor.
  
  
• A personalized daily study plan.
  
  
• A complete final mock IELTS exam with detailed evaluation in the speaking and writing sections.
  
  
• Seven in-depth assessments of written assignments according to official IELTS criteria.
  
  

At our school, each student follows a personalized learning program. This ensures that they achieve results every day. Students know exactly what they need to accomplish today, tomorrow, and the day after to reach their desired score on time.

• During the language improvement phase, we provided Maria with 20 essential checklists and 15 grammar topics. These resources helped her understand how to enhance the beauty of her speech using these structures.

• During the preparation phase for the Listening section, we provided strategies to help Maria capture the necessary information on the first attempt. She practiced these strategies with her personal tutor and successfully applied them in her active listening skills.

• During the preparation phase for the Reading section, we also provided speed reading strategies. These strategies enable students to quickly grasp the necessary information and complete tasks within the allotted time.

• During the preparation phase for the Writing section, Maria's main challenge was the difficulty of using academic writing style. We assisted her in building the necessary vocabulary. Additionally, we provided practice assignments that were evaluated by a professional mentor. This included feedback based on all assessment criteria.

• The Speaking section was the most challenging for Maria. We allocated the highest number of individual lessons for this part. This allowed her to practice live conversation with her instructor. Additionally, we provided her with 20 ready-to-use strategies.

As a result, the checklists combined with the strategies produced excellent outcomes. In the IELTS exam, Maria achieved a score of 6.5 in the Speaking section, which was the most challenging for her. This score represents the Upper-Intermediate level!

At our school, we have a section titled "Non-standart Situations During the IELTS Exam". On one hand, the exam seems universal, as it is administered in all testing centers. However, technical issues can often arise. For example, microphones may fail, power outages may occur, or there might be violations of the exam regulations and timing.

In this section, we provide comprehensive information on how to handle specific situations. While we cannot predict every scenario, understanding the range of unusual situations will help you feel more prepared for anything that may happen during the exam.

In Maria's case, there was an unusual situation. The Speaking section for her was shorter than the standard duration. Typically, this part lasts between 11 to 14 minutes. However, Maria's Speaking section lasted only 9 to 10 minutes. The examiner constantly interrupted her and moved on to the next question without allowing her to respond fully.

What should you do in this situation?

The most important thing is to remain calm. The examiner is there to assist you. If you are asked many questions, it is not a negative sign. In fact, even if it feels like you are being interrupted, it is normal. The examiner wants to get more information. For instance, in the first part, you might receive 8 questions instead of the usual 4. This approach is intended to help you demonstrate a broader vocabulary on various topics.

Typically, two topics are chosen, with four questions for each. In the first part, Maria was asked many questions. She barely had time to answer one before the next question was posed. However, due to her solid preparation with the checklists and strategies we provided before the training, she was able to quickly recall and use the key vocabulary covered in the course.

In the second part, the examiner does not interrupt. Additional questions may be asked to encourage you to speak more, but only if you are providing very brief responses. Maria practiced Speaking Part 2 extensively with her personal tutor and on our educational platform. As a result, she was well aware of how long she needed to speak and could manage her time effectively without a timer.

Her response in Speaking Part 2 lasted about one and a half minutes. She needed to describe a person who had the most influence on her. Ultimately, she provided characteristics related to the person's appearance, as specified in the prompt, and also discussed various personality traits.

Thanks to her determination and our strategic preparation plan, she was able to save a significant amount of money.

Key factors in Maria's IELTS preparation included:

• Accurate Assessment of Language Proficiency: We focus on identifying each student's strengths and weaknesses. We do not create identical programs for all students. Instead, we analyze individual capabilities to enhance existing skills and elevate weaker areas to a higher level.
  
  
• Personalized Program with a Daily Schedule: This approach allowed Maria to understand the beginning and end of her training. She clearly knew what she needed to accomplish today, tomorrow, and the day after to achieve her goals. This clarity helped her remain calm and focused throughout her preparation.
  
  
• Individual Lessons in an Exam Format: Maria practiced all challenging parts of the exam with her personal tutor. Each lesson provided guidance and consistent feedback based on her strengths and weaknesses.

We congratulate Maria on her outstanding results and wish her the best of luck in her studies abroad!