From Application to Victory: My IELTS Prize Story
(By Thoon Than Thar, One Out of Five Winners)
I applied for the IELTS Prize with a very simple but meaningful reason: the prize money could help my family. After taking the IELTS exam with the British Council, I was preparing to move to Bangkok for my university studies. Studying abroad is expensive, and I knew my parents especially my father would have to carry a heavy financial responsibility. If I won the prize, even a small part of that burden could be reduced. That thought alone motivated me to apply.
During the process, I felt calm and focused. I planned everything carefully - from writing the script to filming and editing the video. I didn’t rush it. I wanted to clearly share my IELTS journey and how the British Council supported me along the way. Even though I felt confident deep inside, I still took the process very seriously and gave it my full attention.
The biggest challenge was creating the video itself. Writing the script took time, and I had to film many times to get it right. Editing also required patience. I was even worried about whether my video would reach enough people on social media. Still, I reminded myself to focus on quality rather than fear.
Winning the IELTS Prize means more than financial support. It taught me that trying always brings value. Even if you don’t win, you will have new experience. My advice to future applicants is simple: be authentic. Share your real story honestly, speak clearly, and present your video with care. There is nothing to lose, only something to gain.
About the British Council IELTS Prize 2025
The IELTS Prize is an annual video competition organised by the British Council. This year, the British Council proudly presents the British Council IELTS Prize 2025, celebrating inspiring journeys from IELTS test takers across the Philippines, Indonesia, and Myanmar.
We are looking for authentic and heartfelt stories from IELTS test takers who sat the test with the British Council between 1 April 2024 and 25 September 2025. Participants are invited to share their personal IELTS journey and how the test has supported their study, work, or migration goals.
The prize includes five cash awards and five City Mart e-vouchers worth 200,000 MMK each.
The competition consists of two phases:
- Phase 1: Evaluation based on content quality and creativity
- Phase 2: Evaluation based on inspiration, engagement level, and the logic of the video
The competition is open to Myanmar citizens aged 16 and above. Applicants must have taken IELTS or IELTS for UKVI with the British Council, with a minimum overall/individual band score of 4.0.