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We've collected the most frequently asked questions from our IELTS test takers, covering every stage of your IELTS journey. Our IELTS experts have provided answers and shared their unique insights.

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Last answered by Rocco

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Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
If you have any variation in test scores, it has nothing to do with the location. All IELTS tests go through a rigorous process to ensure all test takers have a standardised test.
Jun 17, 2025
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Last answered by Rocco

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Rocco Nigro
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No. IELTS uses human raters for their tests. All examiners go through a rigorous training process and are closely monitored to ensure they rate to standard.
Jun 17, 2025
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Last answered by Rocco

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Rocco Nigro
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At band 6, a speaker can develop their ideas more deeply with fewer hesitations. The range of vocabulary enables them to talk more deeply on topics. Grammar includes more complex sentences with better accuracy. As for pronunciation, the speaker has more chunking and can use intonation.
Jun 17, 2025
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Last answered by Rocco

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Rocco Nigro
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These are words or phrases that you do not hear so often, but carry the same meaning as words that are used all the time. E.g. 'obtain' can have the same meaning as 'got' but is used less often.
Jun 17, 2025
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Last answered by Rocco

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Rocco Nigro
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Using a variety of sentence types, using complex and compound sentences, plus the amount and type of errors you make.
Jun 17, 2025
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Last answered by Rocco

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Rocco Nigro
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A couple of important ones could be: answering briefly or in short sentences, using memorisation, personalising Part 3 answers and not checking the meaning of a question that you don't understand.
Jun 17, 2025
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Last answered by Rocco

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If you provide extended answers, they can help you obtain a better rating for your Fluency & Coherence or even for your Grammatical Range & Accuracy band scores. However, make sure that what you say is relevant and on topic.
Jun 17, 2025
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Last answered by Rocco

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Rocco Nigro
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No. These notes are only for your benefit. Examiners will only rate you on what you produce verbally.
Jun 17, 2025
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Last answered by Rocco

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It is not a good idea. The questions in Part 3 are non-personal, so it is better to reply in a broader way. Besides, you are more likely to use a wider range of language in this way.
Jun 17, 2025
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Last answered by Rocco

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No. You just have to be at least 16 years of age.
Jun 17, 2025
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Last answered by Vincent

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Vincent Blokker
IELTS Expert
Yes, your IELTS results are a testament of your English language proficiency. You can submit your IELTS Test Report Form to multiple institutions or organisations, including universities, immigration authorities, and professional bodies. You don't need to take a new IELTS test for each application. When you take IELTS on computer, you can download your own Test Report Form in PDF-file format and share this with as many organisations are you require.

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Jun 16, 2025
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Last answered by Vincent

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Vincent Blokker
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When you’re thinking about applying for Permanent Residency (PR) in Canada, you can use either IELTS or CELPIP as proof of English language proficiency. What are the main differences? - IELTS on computer results are typically available in 1 day. With CELPIP, you have to wait up to 4 business days and at busier times up to 10 business days. If you need your results fast, IELTS is the better choice. - CELPIP is primarily available in Canada, with a few locations in India, the UAE, the USA, and the Philippines. IELTS is available worldwide, which makes it more accessible. - IELTS is trusted by over 12,500 government bodies, universities, and professional regulators around the world. CELPIP lists less than 200 organisations on its website that accept the test. If you want a test that is more trusted, choose IELTS.

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Jun 16, 2025
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Fahad Rafique

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Canada

16 years

Experience

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IELTS Expert

Hello! I'm Fahad, and I've been a part of IELTS since April 2010. Having been born and raised in the UAE and then migrating to Canada, I can truly say that IELTS takes you places. I firmly believe that success belongs to those who actively seek it. I'm here to help answer any questions you may have about IELTS and guide you on how to take that crucial first step toward achieving your international dreams – whether it's study, migration or work. I look forward to supporting you!!

Last online Aug 2, 2025

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Jess Christie

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Australia

8 years

Experience

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IELTS Expert

Hi, I'm Jess and I’m an IELTS Expert who has worked in the world of IELTS for 7 years. I help test takers do the best they can in the IELTS test by providing them with helpful tips to ensure they have a smooth test day. I am originally from regional Victoria in Australia, but I was an international student when I went to Ireland for University. I came back and decided to work in the world of international education, which led me to IELTS.

Last online Jun 25, 2025

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Lewis Crannitch

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New Zealand

2 years

Experience

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IELTS Expert

Hi, I’m Lewis. I’ve worked with IELTS in New Zealand since 2017 and taught English in Japan, China, and NZ. Having also learned a language myself in China, I understand the challenges test takers face. I track English proficiency requirements in NZ and deliver IELTS Masterclasses and familiarisation sessions to support preparation, share resources, and make test day easier. I look forward to connecting with you on your IELTS journey.

Last online Sep 15, 2025

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Linda Alley

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Australia

11 years

Experience

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IELTS Expert

Hi! I’m Linda. I’m here to help you reach your IELTS goals by answering any questions you might have about the test and how to prepare. You may have seen me on our video podcast, IELTS Prepare by IDP. I also create learning materials and blog posts for IELTS test takers. Over the past 10 years, I’ve taught English as a Second Language to students from all over the world, so please get in touch if you have any questions on how to improve your language skills.

Last online Sep 16, 2025

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Reza Tasviri

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Australia

18 years

Experience

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IELTS Expert

Hi, I’m Reza. I’m here to help you with advice on how to effectively use your knowledge of English to get the best outcome in your IELTS test. I can answer questions on what the test asks you to do, how it assesses your performance, and how you can show you have what it takes. I’ve been involved with IELTS for 17 years now. I’ve been an English Language teacher for 27 years and a lifelong learner (English is not my first language. I started when I was 17 and haven’t stopped since).

Last online Jul 9, 2025

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Rocco Nigro

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Australia

26 years

Experience

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IELTS Expert

Hello, my name is Rocco and I am one of the IELTS Experts here at IDP. Since 1995, I've been involved in English language teaching, teacher training, assessment and academic management, which has helped me develop a wealth of knowledge about the IELTS test. I enjoy meeting students and test takers from all over the world. If you have any questions about how to do your best in the IELTS Listening, Reading, Writing or Speaking tests, I can give you some good approaches to help you on test day.

Last online Jun 18, 2025

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Vincent Blokker

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Australia

11 years

Experience

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IELTS Expert

Hi! I’m Vincent, and I'm here to help you succeed in your IELTS journey. I live in the beautiful city of Melbourne, Australia, but I work with students from all over the world. I can help with advice and resources and answer your questions about IELTS. I also write blogs with tips for the test and have created study materials for IELTS. I’m an expert on any questions about the organisations, universities, and governments that accept IELTS for work, study, or your visa. Feel free to contact me!

Last online Jul 1, 2025

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