The Academic Module assesses whether a  candidate is ready to study or train in the medium of English at an undergraduate or postgraduate level. Admission to undergraduate and postgraduate courses should be based on the results of this module.

The General Training Module emphasises language skills in broad social and workplace contexts. It is suitable for candidates who are going to migrate to an English-speaking country, for example, to Australia, Canada, New Zealand or the UK. It is also suitable for candidates planning to undertake work experience or training programmes not at degree level, or to complete their secondary education. The General Training Module is not designed to test the full range of formal language skills required for academic purposes.

You can get more information regarding the differences between the two modules by visiting IELTSessentials website.