Language used on the IELTS
Although IELTS is a British test, you don’t necessarily have to use British English in the writing module. American English is equally acceptable. However, you must make sure that you use the same form throughout the exam.
The main differences between British and American English are in spelling.
Here is a list of words which have different spellings in British and American English.
| American English | British English |
| Program | Programme |
| Check | Cheque |
| Center | Centre |
| Theater | Theatre |
| Organize | Organise |
| Apologize | Apologise |
| Color | Colour |
| Honor | Honour |
| Flavor | Flavour |
| Dialog | Dialogue |
| Catalog | Catalogue |
| Analyze | Analyse |
| Paralyze | Paralyse |
| Appall | Appal |
| Enroll | Enrol |
| Fulfill, fulfillment | Fulfil, fulfilment |
| Skillful | Skilful |
| Willful | Wilful |
| Jewelry | Jewellery |
| Counselor | Counsellor |
| Modeling | Modelling |
| Traveler | traveller |
The same idea is sometimes expressed using different words in British and American English. Here is a list of them.
| American English | British English |
| Gasoline | Petrol |
| Major | Subject |
| Truck | Lorry |
| Pants | Trousers |
| Faculty | Staff |
| Trash | Rubbish |
| Vacation | Holiday |
| Store | Shop |
| Restroom | Toilets |
| Flashlight | Torch |
