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IELTS Online: FAQs
IELTS Online FAQs
What is IELTS Online?
IELTS Online is the new way to take the IELTS Academic test. You can now choose to take the world’s leading English language test at home or in a private location with a stable internet connection. It has the same test format and duration as IELTS Academic taken in a test centre, but IELTS Online gives you the opportunity to choose where you want to take the test from.
The Speaking test is conducted online via video call with an IELTS Examiner.
It uses the same IELTS multi-layered security processes in pre-test, test day and post-test operations. Recognising Organisations (ROs) will use the same online verification system as the one used to verify in-centre results.
Is IELTS Online the same as IELTS on paper and on computer?
The test format, scoring, and timing of the test are the same as the IELTS Academic test taken on paper or computer in a test centre.
The Writing, Reading, and Listening tests are done in the same way as IELTS on computer. You will do the Speaking test with an IELTS Examiner in a live video call.
Is the Speaking test face-to-face?
Yes, you will do the IELTS Online Speaking test through a video call with a certified IELTS Examiner.
Do I have to be at home to take my test?
No, you do not need to be at home to take your test. You need a private, well-lit space where you will not be interrupted, and a stable internet connection.
Who accepts IELTS Online test scores?
We advise you to check with your chosen institution(s) directly before booking IELTS Online
Is there a minimum age requirement for IELTS Online?
IELTS Online is currently available to test takers aged 18 and above.
Will the test be timed?
Yes, the test will be timed the same as IELTS Academic on paper and computer. Each section has a fixed duration, so you will not be able to pause the test and go back to it later.
How long is the IELTS Online test?
IELTS Online has the same format as IELTS Academic in a test centre. Reading is 60 minutes, followed by Writing for 60 minutes. Next up is the 30-minute listening test. The Speaking test is usually held before the Reading, Writing, and Listening tests and lasts 11–14 minutes.
Will there be IELTS Online General Training?
IELTS Online is currently only available for the Academic test. It is not accepted for immigration purposes.
Is the test suitable for immigration purposes?
No, IELTS Online is not currently accepted for immigration purposes.
Set-up and equipment
What type of computer/laptop do I need?
To take IELTS Online you must have a laptop or desktop computer with
one
screen only; multiple screens are not allowed.
To check if your laptop/computer is suitable, please read about the minimum technical requirements on our
IELTS Online page
.
Can I take the test on a mobile or tablet?
No, you cannot take IELTS Online using a mobile phone, tablet or Chromebook.
Do I need headphones?
No, headphones are not permitted.
For more information,
visit the IELTS Online page
.
Do I need a microphone and speakers?
Yes, you need a microphone and speakers to take IELTS Online.
For more information, please go to the
IELTS Online page
.
What internet speed do I need?
To check if your internet speed is suitable, please read the
IELTS Online equipment, technical and environment requirements
.
What type of environment do I need?
To take IELTS Online you need:
a quiet, private and well-lit space with a desk
a stable internet connection
a laptop or desktop computer
a microphone and speakers (headphones not allowed)
a camera (internal or external)
a passport
a mobile phone or tablet with a camera for use during the room scan at check-in only.
For more information, please read the
IELTS Online equipment, technical and environment requirements
.
Should I use LAN connection or wi-fi?
Provided the connection is stable, you can use either a LAN connection or wi-fi.
Booking IELTS Online
How do I book my IELTS Online test?
IELTS Online is easy to book – just
visit our website
.
How far in advance can I book an IELTS Online test?
Please book your IELTS Online test at least 48 hours in advance of your planned test date.
How much does IELTS Online cost?
Please visit the
IELTS Online booking page
to see the price.
Which countries is IELTS Online available in?
IELTS Online is being rolled out around the world in 2022. For the latest updates, please keep checking our
website
.
What ID do I need to book IELTS Online?
You will need a valid passport to book and to take IELTS Online. You will need to have this with you during your test too.
What special requirements are available for IELTS Online?
If you require any other adjustments, we recommend that you book IELTS on paper or IELTS on computer, taken in a test centre, where reasonable adjustments can be provided.
Preparing for IELTS Online
What preparation resources are available for IELTS Online?
To help familiarise yourself with the IELTS Online test, we have created the following preparation resources:
IELTS Online tutorial videos
.
IELTS Online Speaking test video
.
You can also use the
IELTS practice materials
already available on our website.
Can I use the existing IELTS Academic preparation materials for IELTS Online?
Yes, IELTS Online is the same test as IELTS Academic, which means that you can use the same
practice materials
already available on our website.
During the test
Can I take notes during my test?
You cannot take notes using pen and paper during your test; however, you can make notes on screen during your Writing, Reading and Listening tests, and for part 2 of your Speaking test.
To find out about the key features of the test platform, including how to make notes or flag a question, along with information on how the test is supervised, watch our
IELTS Online tutorial videos
.
If I make a mistake during my test, can I go back and change my answers?
Yes, if you have time left during a test section, then you can go back and change your answers in that same test section. To find out about the key features of the test platform, including how to flag a question, watch our
IELTS Online tutorial videos
.
Will I be able to take a break during my test?
You are allowed one 5-minute bathroom break during your Reading, Writing, and Listening tests. This must be taken in between tests, e.g. between the end of the Reading test and the start of the Listening test.
To take a bathroom break, raise your hand and wait for the proctor to call you. Do not leave your desk without the proctor's permission.
Will I be able to speak to the proctor?
Yes, you can contact the proctor by raising your hand and waiting for them to contact you.
Will I see the remote proctor?
No. They will only appear if something seems wrong, or if you raise your hand to take a bathroom break or to ask a question.
What will happen if my internet cuts out?
If you lose your internet connection briefly during your test, you will be given extra time equal to the time lost to complete your test.
If you lose your internet connection for a substantial amount of time and need to retake your test, this will be organised by our customer support team on ieltsonline@idp.com.
Can I access other programs or browsers?
No, you will not be able to access any other programs or browsers during the test.
Results, scores, and Test Report Forms (TRFs)
When will I receive my results?
You will receive your results from 1 to 5 days after taking your test.
How will I receive my results?
You will receive an email telling you your results are available and how to access them electronically.
No paper Test Report Forms (TRFs) will be available.
Will I be given a score for each test (Writing, Reading, Listening, and Speaking), including an overall score?
Yes, you will be awarded an overall band score and band scores for each of the four tests: Writing, Reading, Listening, and Speaking.
Who will mark my IELTS Online test?
IELTS Online is marked by official IELTS Examiners, using the same IELTS marking criteria as IELTS on computer and IELTS on paper.
Can I use the IELTS Online results the same way as results from a test centre?
IELTS is widely recognised by universities and other education providers around the world. If your preferred organisation accepts IELTS Online, you can use your results in exactly the same way as if you have taken IELTS at a test centre.
Before you book, check with your preferred organisation directly to make sure they accept IELTS Online. IELTS Online is not suitable for immigration or professional registration purposes.
How do I share my test results with my chosen institution(s)?
As part of the booking process, you can select which institution(s) you would like to share your IELTS Online results with. Your results will be sent to them directly.
How will my chosen institution(s) receive my test results and how will they verify my score?
Educational institutions and organisations will receive your electronic IELTS Online Test Report Form (e-TRF) and use the IELTS Results Verification Service to verify your IELTS scores.
What is the Enquiry on Results (EOR) process for IELTS Online?
The Enquiry on Results (EOR) process for IELTS Online is the same as IELTS taken in a test centre. For more information, please visit the IELTS results page in your
IDP IELTS account.
Technical troubleshooting
How can I check my equipment is compatible with IELTS Online?
Before you book, we advise that you read the visit the
IELTS Online page.
Once you have booked the test you will be emailed information about how to carry out a pre-test system check on your laptop/computer.
What if I fail the pre-test system checks?
Your IELTS Online booking confirmation email will include instructions to help you and provide contact details for our support team.
What if I have an issue immediately before my test starts?
If you experience any issues before your test, please contact us on
ieltsonline@idp.com
as soon as possible.
What if I have a technical issue during my test?
If you have a technical issue during your test and if it is possible to do so, contact the support team via the Live Chat. If that is not possible, contact the support team via email at
ieltsonline@idp.com
.
You will be given extra time equal to the time lost from the technical issue to complete your test.
How do I book my IELTS Online test?
IELTS Online is easy to book –
just visit our website.
How far in advance do I need to book my test?
We recommend booking your IELTS Online test as early as possible to secure your preferred time and date.
If you are a
national of the country
where you’re taking the test, you can book up to
48 hours before
your test time.
If you are
not a national
, you must provide proof of residency, and you need to book at least four days in advance to allow time for
residency verification
. Please note that four days is the minimum — booking earlier is strongly recommended to ensure your documents can be processed in time.
If you book within three days of the test and your ID is not from the country of registration, your test may be
cancelled and refunded
. If you're not currently residing in the country, you may prefer to book an IELTS on Computer test at a test centre, which does not require proof of residency.
How much does IELTS Online cost?
Please visit the
IELTS Online booking page
to see the price.
What ID do I need to book IELTS Online?
You will need a current passport to book and to take IELTS Online. You will need to have this with you during your test too.
What special requirements are available for IELTS Online?
If you need extra support, we recommend that you book IELTS on paper or IELTS on computer at a test centre. They can make special arrangements for you there.
How can I prepare for the IELTS test?
To prepare for the IELTS test, familiarise yourself with the format across all four test sections – Writing, Reading, Listening, and Speaking – by reviewing official practice materials and test guides available on IDP’s website. Practise English daily, both written and spoken, to enhance your fluency and confidence when communicating in English. You should also take advantage of online resources, including practice tests, to build your confidence and help identify areas for improvement.
What is the IELTS Online cancellation policy?
You can cancel your IELTS Online test up to 72 hours before your test date.
Find out more about the
IELTS Online cancellation policy.
Is One Skill Retake available for IELTS Online?
No, One Skill Retake is not currently available for IELTS Online. To take One Skill Retake you must have sat your original test in a test centre.
Do I need to be a resident of the country I’m taking the IELTS Online test in?
Yes. To take IELTS Online, you
must be a resident of the country
where you are booking and sitting the test. You also
must be physically present in that country on test day
. If your ID was not issued in the country where you're registered to take the test, you may be asked to provide
proof of residency
.
Acceptable documents include:
A valid visa or residence permit
A utility bill or bank statement (dated within the last 3 months)
A rental agreement
A university enrolment letter (for international students)
An employment letter or recent payslip
If you cannot provide proof of residency, your test may be
cancelled and refunded
. If you are not a resident, you may instead consider booking an
IELTS on Computer test at a test centre
, which does not have this requirement.
Data and privacy
How is my personal data being used?
For IELTS Online we collect and store your personal data to:
administer your IELTS Online test
make sure the test if fair and prevent fraud
improve the way in which IELTS Online is administered
For more information about how we use your personal data, read the
IELTS Online Privacy Notice.
How can I access my personal data?
If you would like to access your personal data, please email:
privacyofficer@idp.com
Is my test recorded, and if so, how long is it kept for?
Yes, IELTS Online records both a video of you and the audio of the test, and what is on your computer screen.
Your Writing, Reading, and Listening test audio and video recording is held for 60 days after your IELTS Online test
Your Speaking test video recording is held for 3 months after your IELTS Online test
Your Speaking test audio recording is held for 3 years after your IELTS Online test
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