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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 Jess

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Jess Christie
IELTS Expert
All IELTS on Computer tests around the world use the same testing platform. If you click here you can see what the platform looks like and practice all 3 components before your test. Test out what all the buttons and options do. You will see you can change the font size, screen and text color. Knowing what to expect will help you massively on test day!

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Feb 7, 2025
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Last answered by Jess

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Jess Christie
IELTS Expert
If you do your IELTS test on Computer your results will be available within 1-5 days of your test. You will receive an email as soon as they are released, and you can log back into your account here to download your Test Report Form. If you do your test on IELTS on Paper your results will be released 13 days after your test. You will receive an email or SMS to say your results have been released. Some test centres allow you to come in and pick up the paper Test Report Form, or others will post it out to you. You cannot get an electronic copy of your Test Report Form for IELTS on Paper as these are only available for IELTS on Computer.

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Feb 7, 2025
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Last answered by Jess

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Jess Christie
IELTS Expert
Neither is better than the other. It just comes down to what you are comfortable with. Some people don't feel comfortable using a computer or just feel more comfortable using pen and paper. In which case IELTS on Paper would be the best way to go. However, if you are comfortable using computers and navigating around a keyboard then IELTS on Computer is probably a good choice. You just need to reflect on which option will make you more comfortable.

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Feb 7, 2025
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Last answered by Jess

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Jess Christie
IELTS Expert
If you do your IELTS on Computer test, you will be given individual headphones for the Listening test. You will be able to adjust the headphones size and volume yourself to what is comfortable for you. If you do your IELTS on Paper test, the Listening test is often played over a loudspeaker to the room, so you do not have your own headphones. However, some centres may have headphones for the IELTS on Paper test. I suggest you contact your test centre beforehand to see if they have headphones for the IELTS on Paper test.

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Feb 7, 2025
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Last answered by Jess

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Jess Christie
IELTS Expert
For the Listening and Reading tests you can write your answers in all capital letters if you want to. There are no rules about writing in Lower or Upper case for the Listening and Reading.
Feb 7, 2025
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Last answered by Jess

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Jess Christie
IELTS Expert
You can use either American or British English spellings in your IELTS test. However, I suggest being consistent with the kind that you use. So, if you are using American English, stick with it, don't swap halfway through your Writing test to British English
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

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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

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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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