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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 Vincent

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Vincent Blokker
IELTS Expert
No, usually you don’t have to take a separate IELTS test for different countries. IELTS results are trusted around the world and are accepted by more than 12,500 organisations. So, your IELTS test can be used to apply in almost all countries where IELTS is accepted. There is one important exception: when you are migrating to the United Kingdom, you might need to take a special UKVI IELTS test.

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May 28, 2025
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Last answered by Vincent

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Vincent Blokker
IELTS Expert
Legislation about immigration changes frequently. When you’re looking to move to Canada, it’s important to check the Immigration, Refugees & Citizenship Canada website for changes that may apply to you. If you are interested in a Canadian study permit, work visas, or looking to migrate permanently, you may need to lodge an application with the Canadian Government. You may want to consider getting support from a lawyer or a qualified migration expert.

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May 28, 2025
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Last answered by Vincent

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Vincent Blokker
IELTS Expert
The Academic IELTS test is designed for those who want to study at a university that teaches in English at an undergraduate or postgraduate level, including New Zealand. However, if you are looking to study secondary education, work experience or vocational training programs, sometimes IELTS General Training is also accepted. So, always check with the institution where you want to study before you book your IELTS test.

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May 28, 2025
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Last answered by Vincent

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Vincent Blokker
IELTS Expert
Medical professionals in Australia need to demonstrate high levels of English language proficiency. That’s important, because people’s lives and wellbeing depend on it. The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra) sets English requirements for nurses and currently requires the Academic IELTS test. But, always check with the organisation which regulates your profession before you book your IELTS test.

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May 28, 2025
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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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Last answered by Vincent

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Vincent Blokker
IELTS Expert
No, when you do the Listening test for IELTS Online, you will need speakers and a microphone that are integrated into your laptop or desktop computer. You can’t wear a headset or ear buds. Don’t worry, before you do your IELTS Online test, we’ll do a readiness check to ensure your system meets the IELTS Online requirements.
May 28, 2025
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Last answered by Vincent

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Vincent Blokker
IELTS Expert
Both IELTS and TOEFL are high-stakes English test. They are both used for work, study and immigration. But there are some important differences: - Results with IELTS on computer are typically available in 1 day. TOEFL results can take 4–8 days after your test date. - Missed out on your desired score? With IELTS on computer, you can retake just one part of your test. With TOEFL, you must pay for an entire test again. - With IELTS, your Speaking test is done is face-to-face with a human examiner, reflecting real-life communication. With TOEFL, your spoken English is recorded. - IELTS lets you choose between an Academic or General Training test. TOEFL only assesses academic language.

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May 28, 2025
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Last answered by Vincent

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Vincent Blokker
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IELTS is the world’s most trusted English test for work study and migration. Some institutions around the world also accept the PTE test. However, there are key differences: - Results with IELTS on computer are typically available in 1 day, while PTE results usually take 2–5 days. - Missed out on your desired score? With IELTS on computer, you can retake just one part of your test. With PTE, you must pay for an entire test again. - IELTS Speaking is conducted face-to-face with a human examiner, in a quiet room. It provides a more natural, conversational experience. In contrast, your PTE speaking test is done in a room together with lots of other people also talking in a microphone. It is entirely automated, time-limited, with your responses recorded.

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May 28, 2025
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Last answered by Vincent

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Vincent Blokker
IELTS Expert
You can book your IELTS test as soon as a day before you take the test. This depends on the demand and availability in your city or country. But my recommendation is to book at least two weeks in advance. Why? When you book your IELTS test with IDP, you get access to a free online preparation course, developed by Macquarie University in Australia. People who prepare for their test usually get a higher score. So, take advantage of this free course!

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May 28, 2025
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Last answered by Vincent

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Vincent Blokker
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IDP and British Council are both co-owners of IELTS. The third co-owner is Cambridge English (part of Cambridge University Press & Assessment). Both IDP and British Council deliver the IELTS test around the world. IDP is a leader in global education services. We help people achieve their international education goals. We operate in more than 50 countries around the world. IDP has helped more than 650,000 people change their lives through global education. It is something we are incredibly proud of, and we’re confident that we can support you too!

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May 28, 2025
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Last answered by Linda

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Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
It’s best to speak at a normal pace. If you speak too quickly, you might not express yourself clearly. If you speak too slowly, you might sound unnatural as it could affect your pronunciation in areas such as rhythm or intonation.   My tip: Imagine you’re talking to a colleague at work and speak at a natural pace.
May 27, 2025
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Last answered by Linda

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Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
IELTS band scores range from a band 0 to a band 9, with 0 being the lowest and 9 being the highest level of English language proficiency. There is no pass or fail score. Score requirements are set by governments, universities and other recognising organisations, not IELTS. These vary, depending on the level of English they require. If you’re taking IELTS for work, study or migration, check with the organisation you’re applying to, so you know the minimum score you need to achieve.

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May 27, 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

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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