UNHCR Provides Free IELTS Tests to Empower Refugees

The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has announced a collaboration with IELTS to offer complimentary English language proficiency tests for refugees, aiming to enhance their educational and employment prospects, Khaama Press reported yesterday.

This initiative seeks to address the significant challenges faced by refugees, especially in low- and middle-income nations, where only 7% of university-aged refugees have access to higher education, compared to a global average of 42%.

With over 4 million IELTS tests administered in 2023 across more than 140 countries, this partnership aims to empower displaced individuals by granting them internationally recognized qualifications. UNHCR will identify eligible refugees and facilitate testing arrangements, providing both paper-based and computer-based options.