As more Nepali students and professionals look abroad for higher education, employment and migration opportunities, demand for the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) continues to grow. Responding to this trend, the British Council is modernising its testing services through computer-delivered exams and candidate-friendly features such as One Skill Retake, while expanding its contribution to education and skills development through programmes including Cambridge International A Levels, ACCA and Corporate English Solutions. In this interview with Republica, Pratishtha Thapa Rayamajhi, Country Examinations Director at the British Council Nepal, talks to Ruby Rauniyar about the Council's efforts to make internationally recognised qualifications more accessible and equip Nepali youth with the skills needed to succeed in an increasingly interconnected world. Excerpts:
The British Council recently recognised Nepal's top IELTS partners. How important are these partnerships in expanding Nepali students' access to international education and opportunities?
Our B2B partners and education consultants are invaluable to us. They serve as a vital link between the British Council and prospective IELTS candidates, and the majority of our test takers register through these partners. We continue to invest in these relationships and strengthen our collaboration so that we can better meet the evolving needs of candidates. While we work directly with many partners, we also engage with others through professional associations.
These partnerships enable us to organise IELTS orientation sessions, mock tests, education fairs and other outreach programmes, allowing us to connect directly with prospective candidates and provide them with accurate information and guidance. We also collaborate with our partners to reach IELTS instructors and deliver teacher training programmes. Since high-quality instruction is essential for effective test preparation, these initiatives indirectly benefit candidates by helping improve the quality of IELTS teaching.
IELTS has traditionally been offered as a paper-based exam in Nepal, but computer-delivered testing has now been introduced. What benefits does this bring to candidates?
The introduction of computer-delivered IELTS gives candidates greater flexibility to choose the test format that best suits their preferences and comfort level. We have also introduced the **One Skill Retake** option, which allows candidates to retake only the module in which they wish to improve their score instead of sitting the entire examination again. This transition is particularly significant because IELTS testing is undergoing a global digital transformation. Many countries have already moved from paper-based testing to computer-delivered exams. During this transition, we recognise that candidates have different preferences. Some find computer-based testing faster and more convenient, while others still prefer the familiarity of writing on paper.
To further support candidates, we also offer IELTS Ready Premium (IRP), which includes 40 practice tests and 25 AI-powered mock tests with personalised feedback. These resources help candidates prepare more effectively for the actual examination. The shift to digital testing reflects global trends while continuing to provide candidates with the flexibility to choose either paper-based or computer-delivered exams. It also addresses the growing demand for faster results for university admissions, visa applications and employment opportunities. However, it is important to note that the examination content, assessment standards and international recognition remain exactly the same, regardless of the test format. IELTS continues to be an essential qualification for those seeking higher education or career opportunities abroad.
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Interest among Nepali students and professionals in international opportunities appears to be growing. What trends are you observing?
Nepali students and professionals increasingly view international education, skilled migration and global careers as long-term investments in their future. Although individual aspirations differ, the desire to pursue international opportunities continues to grow. Students seeking higher education in English-speaking countries such as Australia, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada and New Zealand still account for the largest share of IELTS candidates. At the same time, an increasing number of skilled professionals are taking IELTS to pursue international employment, professional registration and migration opportunities. Today, IELTS is recognised by more than 13,000 organisations worldwide, making it one of the most widely accepted English language proficiency tests.
Candidates also expect greater convenience than ever before. They increasingly look for faster results, digital services and flexible test schedules. At the same time, the use of official preparation materials, digital learning resources and mock tests has grown significantly. Today's candidates are making more informed decisions. They are not only considering where to study but also evaluating post-study employment prospects, long-term migration opportunities and the overall return on their educational investment.
Besides IELTS, the British Council also promotes qualifications such as A Levels and ACCA. How do these programmes contribute to Nepal's education system, skills development and the creation of a competent workforce?
The internationally recognised UK qualifications promoted by the British Council make a significant contribution to strengthening Nepal's education system and skills ecosystem. A Levels help students develop critical thinking, analytical ability and subject-specific expertise. Because these qualifications are internationally recognised, they enable Nepali students to gain admission to leading universities around the world. At the same time, they encourage higher standards of teaching, learning and assessment within Nepal's education system. Similarly, professional qualifications such as the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) help produce globally competent professionals in finance and accounting. These qualifications bridge the gap between academic learning and industry requirements, improving both employability and professional competence.
Overall, internationally recognised qualifications such as A Levels and ACCA equip learners with skills that are increasingly valued in today's job market. They enhance employability, expand access to international opportunities and encourage educational institutions to maintain high academic standards. They also promote digital literacy, innovation and adaptability—qualities that are becoming essential in a rapidly changing world. Taken together, these qualifications help strengthen Nepal's human capital and lay the foundation for long-term economic growth.
The British Council is expanding its Corporate English Solutions programme. In Nepal's evolving economy, what role does English language proficiency play in employment and workforce development?
As Nepal becomes increasingly integrated into the global economy, English is no longer just an academic subject—it has become a practical workplace skill. Proficiency in English opens doors to better employment opportunities, international trade, access to global knowledge and professional training, as well as overseas employment and migration. However, English proficiency alone is no longer enough. Today's employers place equal importance on technical expertise, digital literacy, problem-solving ability, teamwork and effective communication skills. Success in the workplace depends on a combination of these competencies.
Our research also shows that students from rural and resource-constrained communities continue to face challenges in accessing quality English-language education. Addressing these disparities remains an important priority. At the same time, in a multilingual country like Nepal, proficiency in Nepali and local languages is equally important. The most successful professionals are those who can communicate effectively in both English and their local languages, enabling them to operate confidently in both domestic and international environments.
What is the British Council's vision for examinations and assessment in Nepal in the years ahead? How will this create greater opportunities for Nepali youth?
Our goal is to ensure that young people in Nepal have access to internationally recognised examinations and qualifications that open pathways to higher education, employment, entrepreneurship and global careers. Looking ahead, we aim to make our examination and assessment systems more accessible, flexible and future-ready. Expanding digital testing, enhancing the overall candidate experience and delivering international-standard services tailored to local needs will remain our key priorities.
We will also continue strengthening partnerships with schools, universities, professional institutions, government agencies and other stakeholders in the education sector. Through these collaborations, we seek to enhance the quality of assessment, promote internationally recognised qualifications and build greater confidence in the knowledge and skills of Nepali youth. In today's world, academic achievement alone is no longer sufficient for success. Effective communication, critical thinking, digital literacy, collaboration and adaptability have become equally important.
Through our examinations, English language services and education programmes, we remain committed to equipping young people with these essential life skills. By working closely with our partners, we aim to help nurture a generation of skilled, confident and globally competitive Nepali youth.
Students in Nepal can now choose between different providers for the IELTS test. In an increasingly competitive market, how is the British Council differentiating its services?
We welcome healthy competition because it encourages all providers to continuously improve the quality of their services and enhance the overall experience for test takers. At the British Council, our focus is on delivering a high-quality, internationally consistent testing experience while supporting candidates throughout their IELTS journey. Those who register with us have access to a range of official preparation resources, including IELTS Ready Premium, practice tests, mock examinations with AI-powered feedback and other learning materials designed to help them prepare effectively.
We have also expanded our services by introducing computer-delivered IELTS alongside the traditional paper-based format, giving candidates greater flexibility. In addition, the One Skill Retake option allows eligible candidates to retake only the section in which they wish to improve their score, rather than the entire test. Ultimately, candidates choose a test provider based on the quality of service and the support they receive. Our priority is to ensure that every candidate enjoys a seamless testing experience backed by internationally recognised standards.
More importantly, IELTS itself remains one of the world's most widely accepted English language proficiency tests. It is recognised by more than 13,000 organisations worldwide, including universities, employers, professional bodies and immigration authorities. We remain committed to maintaining those high standards while continuing to improve our services for candidates in Nepal.
Beyond administering examinations, how extensive is the British Council's engagement with Nepal's education sector?
Our role extends well beyond conducting examinations. We work closely with schools, education consultancies, universities and other stakeholders to improve access to internationally recognised qualifications and support the development of quality education in Nepal. The British Council does not accredit institutions to teach IELTS. Instead, we provide professional support, training, guidance and learning resources to education consultancies and IELTS preparation centres.
According to the Ministry of Education, around 1,400 education consultancies are registered in Nepal, of which approximately 800 regularly renew their registration. We work directly with around 500 education consultancies, while our engagement reaches many more through professional associations.
In addition, we currently partner with 16 schools in Nepal that offer Cambridge International A Level qualifications. Through these partnerships, we seek to strengthen educational standards, expand access to internationally recognised qualifications and help ensure that Nepali students receive reliable guidance as they pursue higher education and global career opportunities.
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