The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is setting itself apart in an increasingly competitive English language assessment market by preserving human oversight in its examinations while selectively integrating artificial intelligence (AI), according to the British Council, a co-owner of IELTS.

IELTS is jointly owned by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia, and Cambridge University Press & Assessment, and is recognized by more than 12,000 organizations across over 150 countries, including universities, professional bodies, and immigration authorities in the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and the United States.

Danica Tuliao, senior exams marketing manager at British Council Philippines, said in an interview during the organization's annual exams partner gathering that the human element remains central to IELTS' identity.

"With IELTS, what we're really proud of when it comes to the service and the test that we offer is that there is still human intervention," Ms. Tuliao said.

She emphasized that the speaking test, in particular, relies on a live human examiner rather than an automated system. "In our speaking test, we have a live human examiner that test takers speak with because that's actually the best measure of how you communicate with people," she added.

The local English language assessment landscape has grown more competitive in recent years, with new providers offering specialized examinations tailored to industries such as healthcare, as well as fully AI-based tests — such as the Duolingo English Test and Pearson PTE Academic — that eliminate any interaction with a human examiner. The competitive pressure is particularly acute in the Philippines, which is one of the world's largest sources of international students and overseas workers, populations for whom English proficiency certification is often a prerequisite for visas, professional registration, and university admission abroad. Despite these trends, Ms. Tuliao said IELTS continues to pursue a hybrid approach, integrating AI features while retaining human assessment in key components of the testing process.

"We really feel strongly that the IELTS (approach) can definitely address the purpose of each test taker and help them achieve their dreams and goals," Ms. Tuliao said in mixed English and Filipino.

On the technology front, the British Council has incorporated AI-powered tools into its IELTS Ready Premium preparation platform, enabling test takers to monitor their progress and receive automated support as they prepare for the exam.

The broader market context underscores the stakes. The global English proficiency testing market is valued at an estimated $3.1 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach $5.5 billion by 2032, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.5% over that period, according to market research firm Metastat.

Ms. Tuliao noted that English language assessments such as IELTS remain essential for individuals pursuing opportunities abroad, whether for study, work, or migration to countries that require proof of English proficiency. Different institutions, professions, and countries maintain varying score requirements depending on the level of English competency needed.

— Edg Adrian A. Eva