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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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iconJun 17, 2025

Last answered by Rocco

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Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
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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iconJun 30, 2025

Last answered by Reza

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Reza Tasviri
IELTS Expert
There is one way to know and that is to look at how IELTS is scored and what band 9 means. I highly recommend having a look at IELTS Scoring . It will give you a good idea of what kind of ability and knowledge you should show in the test to reach the highest score.
Jul 1, 2025
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Last answered by Reza

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Reza Tasviri
IELTS Expert
I'd like to say first that there is no specific grammar for IELTS you need to focus on, but there is thenowledge of grammar of English, so basically anything you do that means you listen and watch in English more, you read in English more, you use English more in speaking and writing improves your grammar. The other exercise that really helps is to use books on grammar, or grammar exercises online and focus on one grammar lesson for a day or two and do as many exercised you can. This directly improves your grammar.

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Jun 30, 2025
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Last answered by Fahad

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Fahad Rafique
IELTS Expert
IELTS Preparation can be done through plenty resources available on our IELTS Prepare website and also through Macquarie free courses available once you register for an IELTS Test. You may also be able to join the various Master Classes or Training courses that may be free and provided by a Test Centre by IDP closer to you. Please check with the test centres in your vicinity.

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Aug 4, 2025
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Last answered by Linda

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Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
It’s different for everyone as there are a lot of factors to consider such as your current level of English, your target band score, your first language and how many hours you can study/practise. Instead of focusing on the amount of time you have, I recommend concentrating on using your preparation time efficiently. Start by setting goals for your study sessions and make these as specific as possible. If you want to get a higher score in IELTS Writing, think about what areas of writing you want to improve and work on these. For example, do you need to use a wider range of vocabulary? Or do you need to get better at supporting your ideas in the Task 2 essay?

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Aug 5, 2025
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Last answered by Reza

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Reza Tasviri
IELTS Expert
There is no definite answer because it depends on how much you practise, which skills you need to improve most in and in which areas (e.g. grammar, vocabulary, or pronunciation e.g.). What is clear is that you need to work out what you need to work most on and practice daily.
Jun 30, 2025
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Last answered by Rocco

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Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
It depends on how much work you are prepared to do. Consider setting some goals to help you stay motivated as you need to be consistent in your practice. Remember, there is no short cut, so be prepared to put in the effort.
Jun 17, 2025
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Last answered by Linda

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Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
These question types can be challenging because you have to think about where you are on the map while you listen. I’d recommend reviewing vocabulary related to location and giving directions e.g. take the second street on the right, it’s on the corner in front of the pharmacy etc. Become familiar with compass directions in English (north, northeast, east, southeast etc) to orientate yourself during the recording.

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May 13, 2025
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iconJun 19, 2025

Last answered by Linda

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Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
The best place to begin is the IELTS Prepare Hub on our website. You’ll find a section on essential resources for IELTS preparation as well as the option to search for study materials by test skill (Listening, Reading, Writing or Speaking).   In the Prepare Hub, you can also find our video podcast series, IELTS Prepare by IDP , which covers everything you need to know about IELTS. Over 10 episodes, you’ll learn about the IELTS test structure, how to prepare, what to expect on test day and more.

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Jun 19, 2025
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iconAug 5, 2025

Last answered by Linda

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Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
IELTS preparation classes are a good option if you’d like feedback on your writing and speaking. A teacher can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses and give you advice on how you can improve before you take your test. But don’t worry if you can’t make it to classes - there are also plenty of ways to prepare by yourself. Just make sure you choose official IELTS preparation materials, which you can find on our website . If you can’t attend classes, a self-paced online IELTS preparation course might suit you better. Our IELTS by IDP app offers two free taster courses by Macquarie University and E2 Test Prep.

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Aug 5, 2025
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iconJun 17, 2025

Last answered by Rocco

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Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
Get plenty of rest so you can focus and concentrate well. Get to the test venue in plenty of time ao you are not under pressure. Do something relaxing like listening to music or meditation.
Jun 17, 2025
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Last answered by Linda

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Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
It’s best to use the surname of the person you’re writing to with the appropriate salutation. For example, you can start the letter ‘Dear Mr. Smith’ if you’re writing to a man. For women, you can use ‘Dear Mrs. Smith’ or ‘Miss. Smith’ depending on whether she is married or single. If you’re unsure, simply use ‘Ms. Smith.’ You can end the letter with ‘Yours sincerely’ followed by your full name. If you don’t know the name of the person you’re writing to, simply start the letter with ‘Dear Sir or Madam’ and finish with ‘Yours faithfully’ followed by your full name. Don’t forget to add a comma after each greeting and closing remark e.g. Dear Sir or Madam,

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Jun 17, 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

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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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Vishal Ramesh

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India

1 year

Experience

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IELTS Expert

Your friendly neighbourhood community manager

Last online Mar 4, 2025

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