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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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iconMay 28, 2025

Last answered by Vincent

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Vincent Blokker
IELTS Expert
No, human examiners are not biased. While AI can mark simple tasks like multiple-choice questions accurately, it can struggle with understanding different accents and the complexity of human language. IELTS uses trained language experts to assess Speaking and Writing. That’s because human examiners can understand context, tone, creativity, and diverse accents, something which AI often misinterprets. Human examiners ensure fairness by following strict marking guidelines and undergoing regular training. This way, IELTS provides a more accurate and reliable assessment of real-world English skills compared to AI-only tests, and why more organisations trust your IELTS scores.

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May 28, 2025
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iconJun 17, 2025

Last answered by Rocco

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Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
An actual IELTS test goes through a rigorous process to ensure it is standardised for candidates. Mock tests may not go through the same process, but it can depend on who produced it.
Jun 17, 2025
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iconSep 15, 2025

Last answered by Lewis

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Lewis Crannitch
IELTS Expert
Yes, IELTS tests are held on public holidays in New Zealand, though this depends on the test centre. At IDP Auckland, for example, tests typically run on all public holidays except Christmas Day and Boxing Day. For the most up-to-date information on test dates and availability, please check our booking page here: Book IELTS test dates

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Sep 15, 2025
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iconAug 4, 2025

Last answered by Fahad

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Fahad Rafique
IELTS Expert
Listening skills can be improved using IELTS prepare materials available here I would suggest listening to podcasts and radio, watching movies, or listening to e-books. A great exercise is to prepare through doing past practice tests and completing a comprehension test on audio or e-books you have heard. Practice improves your technique and there are various podcasts by IDP on the IELTS prepare website or the IELTS by IDP App. You would also receive a Macquarie prep course allowing you to improve one skill for free when you register for an IELTS test with IDP.

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Aug 4, 2025
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iconJul 29, 2025

Last answered by Fahad

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Fahad Rafique
IELTS Expert
You are able to apply for Enquiry on Result (EOR) / Remark once your results are released. You may opt for a One Skill Retake (OSR) once the EOR/remark is completed. Both of these options can't be fulfilled simultaneously. You may also request for an EOR/Remark of the OSR result. Information is available on our website and IELTS by IDP app for both EOR and OSR processes.

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Jul 29, 2025
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iconJun 26, 2025

Last answered by Jess

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Jess Christie
IELTS Expert
If you don't understand the instructions or you are having trouble navigating the test platform you can definitely ask for help from the test day staff. They are there to help you navigate the test. However, they will not be able to answer any questions or provide help regarding the actual questions. For example, they will help you if you can't figure out how to move on to the next question, but they won't be able to help if you are unsure what a word means.

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Jun 26, 2025
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iconJun 26, 2025

Last answered by Jess

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Jess Christie
IELTS Expert
Yes, you can! Please just make sure it is clear and see-through with no labels or words on it.
Jun 26, 2025
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iconJun 2, 2025

Last answered by Jess

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Jess Christie
IELTS Expert
Most IDP centres will provide you with all the stationery you require for your IELTS test. If they don’t, they will let you know beforehand what you need to bring.
Jun 2, 2025
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iconMay 28, 2025

Last answered by Vincent

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Vincent Blokker
IELTS Expert
Usually, organisations that ask for your IELTS scores will only accept scores from one single test report form – that can be a full IELTS test, or an IELTS One Skill Retake. Most organisations that accept IELTS won’t allow you to mix-and-match scores from two different tests. There are some exceptions, so always check with the organisation where you intend to send your scores to.

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May 28, 2025
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iconMay 28, 2025

Last answered by Vincent

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Vincent Blokker
IELTS Expert
No, you can’t convert scores from an Academic test to a General Training test. That’s because some of the questions in the Academic test are different from the General Training test. My recommendation: always check with the organisation where you intend to use your scores to learn what IELTS test they require: Academic or General Training.
May 28, 2025
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iconJul 22, 2025

Last answered by Fahad

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Fahad Rafique
IELTS Expert
Fair marking policies and protocols are in place for IELTS tests across the globe. Rigorous measures are in place to ensure that you are not disadvantaged. You do have the option of getting an Enquiry on Result (EOR) done if you feel the score is not what you expected.
Jul 22, 2025
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iconMay 21, 2025

Last answered by Vincent

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Vincent Blokker
IELTS Expert
No, you can’t “buy” and IELTS certificate without taking the test. You might see people across social media or on certain websites offering fake Test Report Forms if you pay them money. Sometimes they pretend to work for IELTS. Don’t waste your money and risk your future opportunities. Immigration authorities and universities always check the validity or IELTS scores directly with us. If you’re caught using fake IELTS results, you risk a visa refusal or cancellation, withdrawal of an offer of study, and you may get banned from taking IELTS in the future.

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May 21, 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

role

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

role

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

role

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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