Are you wondering what to wear for your IELTS Speaking test? Don’t worry. Read on to find out what to wear for your Speaking test.
What is the IELTS Speaking test?
The IELTS Speaking section is the same for both General Training and Academic test takers. It assesses your use of spoken English. All Speaking tests are conducted face-to-face with a certified IELTS examiner and are recorded in case they need to be reviewed.
The Speaking section takes between 11 and 14 minutes and consists of 3 parts. You will see the available Speaking test slots when you book your test, or you may contact your test center to find out when the Speaking test is held. After registration, you may confirm with your test center the date and time of your Speaking test.
What should I wear for the IELTS Speaking test?
When you think about what to wear for the IELTS Speaking test, the most important thing is to wear comfortable clothes that make you feel relaxed and confident. In other words, there is NO dress code for the IELTS Speaking test.
When you feel comfortable during your test, you will focus on showing the examiner your English skills.
A formal suit is optional
You don’t need to wear a full suit and tie to your IELTS Speaking test unless you feel comfortable and confident when you wear it.
The IELTS test is a formal test, but it isn’t a job interview.
So, if you’re thinking about what to wear for the IELTS Speaking test, you just need to wear whatever makes you comfortable.
Just comfortable shoes
Remember that the most important thing is to feel comfortable. If your shoes are too tight, your feet will hurt, which may affect your performance. You’ll feel distracted and will not be able to make your best effort during the test.
For ladies, it is better not to wear high heels. They look beautiful, but you don’t want to suffer in those high heels - you need to feel comfortable!
Not too much perfume
You may consider wearing perfume to your IELTS Speaking test. That’s fine.
Putting on a little bit of your favorite cologne or perfume can boost your self-confidence but don’t overdo it!
Can I wear jeans in the IELTS Speaking test?
Of course, you can. Wear whatever you feel comfortable in.
Take a jacket or sweater
Are you taking your IELTS test in a country that has air conditioning? If you tend to feel cold in an air-conditioned room, you may want to take a light jacket or sweater with you. As mentioned before, the key message about what to wear for your IELTS test is this – dress for comfort!
Should I wear a mask during the IELTS Speaking test?
Test takers, center staff and examiners are required to abide by country governmental regulations when it comes to wearing a face mask as a precautionary health measure. You should bring your own mask. However, you may be requested to uncover your face temporarily for some security checks.
Wearing a mask during your IELTS test will not affect your Speaking score. Remember you can always ask your examiner to repeat or rephrase a question. That’s one of the benefits of speaking with a real person!
Try not to worry
With all that said, stay calm and don’t worry too much! Treat the IELTS Speaking test like a catch up with a friend. You are just having a discussion with someone about a range of topics, so relax!
Enjoy the conversation, express yourself well and try to be spontaneous in your speech.
Make sure you get enough sleep the night before.
Wake up early and eat a full breakfast so you have the energy you need for the test.
Breathe!
Get to your testing venue feeling relaxed. This will boost your chances of obtaining the score that you need on the IELTS Speaking test!