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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 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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iconMay 27, 2025

Last answered by Linda

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Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
You can’t ask your examiner for a different Speaking test question. However, what you can do is build up your confidence by practising with a wide range of different questions before your test.
Oct 30, 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
Please contact your Test Centre as soon as possible if you need to change any times relating to your test booking and they will do their best to accommodate you.
Jun 2, 2025
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iconJun 26, 2025

Last answered by Jess

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Jess Christie
IELTS Expert
No, you must remain for the entire duration of the test.
Jun 26, 2025
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iconJun 26, 2025

Last answered by Jess

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Jess Christie
IELTS Expert
No, you cannot bring a calculator in with you during the IELTS test.
Jun 26, 2025
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iconJun 17, 2025

Last answered by Rocco

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Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
Yes, they can be useful as they can help give you a moment to gather your thoughts. However, try not to use them too much as you would have too much hesitation, which can affect your Fluency & Coherence and Pronunciation band scores.
Jun 17, 2025
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iconJun 17, 2025

Last answered by Rocco

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Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
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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iconMay 27, 2025

Last answered by Linda

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Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
It’s okay to use some informal language or slang in your IELTS Speaking test, but make sure it’s appropriate for the situation. Avoid using slang that is considered to be impolite or too informal. It’s important that you communicate your ideas clearly, so if you’re use slang, make sure it is widely understood across the English-speaking world.
May 27, 2025
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iconJun 26, 2025

Last answered by Jess

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Jess Christie
IELTS Expert
No, you are not able to wear a watch during your IELTS test. This covers all forms of watches, not just smart watches. There will be clocks and/or regular time checks provided throughout your test so you can accurately manage your time.
Jun 26, 2025
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iconJul 22, 2025

Last answered by Fahad

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Fahad Rafique
IELTS Expert
You are only allowed to bring a valid passport or national ID (if acceptable) on the day of the test. If there are exceptional circumstances and you don't have any of the acceptable IDs available, you may reach out to the test centre in your country to review the options available to you.
Jul 22, 2025
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iconFeb 7, 2025

Last answered by Linda

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Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
Yes, you will need to bring your passport with you on test day so we can check your identity. In some situations, a national identity card may be accepted instead of a passport, but it is best to check with your local test centre if you are unsure.
Feb 7, 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

role

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

role

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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