The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is an internationally recognized examination that has been designed for evaluating a student or working professional that aspires to migrate to an English speaking nation.

The test is effective in checking the readiness of individuals to communicate efficiently at their new destination. 

For dedicated foreign-educated nurses wanting to take their career to the United States, the IELTS needs to be passed before a US Visa can be issued. The IELTS offers two different exams; Academic and General, with the former being the requirement for international registered nurses to migrate.

The exam is marked from 1 (non-user) to 9 (expert). To pass the IELTS and be eligible for a US Visa, one has to obtain an overall band score of 6.5 but must score a 7 for the speaking section to meet the US Visa standards.