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How can I prepare for the IELTS test for free?
Academic & Academic UKVI Preparation Free preparation
Answers from experts
- Most recent
- Oldest
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
Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
Correct spelling is very important in the IELTS Listening test. If you spell an answer incorrectly, it will be marked as wrong. If you’re taking the IELTS on paper test, you’ll be given 10 minutes to transfer your answers from the question book to the answer paper so make sure you check your spelling carefully when you do this. You can use British or American spelling.
Our blog post How to improve your spelling in the IELTS test has some good tips if you struggle with spelling.
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May 14, 2025
Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
Good question! Our IELTS Prepare Hub has lots of free resources you can use to get ready for your test. These include practice tests, masterclasses, videos, articles and our IELTS Prepare by IDP video podcast series. You can find these resources on our website: IELTS Prepare Hub
Feb 18, 2025
Answers
How can I prepare for the IELTS test for free?
Academic & Academic UKVI Preparation Free preparation
Last answered by Fahad
Answers from experts
- Most recent
- Oldest
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.
Read more
Aug 4, 2025
Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
Correct spelling is very important in the IELTS Listening test. If you spell an answer incorrectly, it will be marked as wrong. If you’re taking the IELTS on paper test, you’ll be given 10 minutes to transfer your answers from the question book to the answer paper so make sure you check your spelling carefully when you do this. You can use British or American spelling.
Our blog post How to improve your spelling in the IELTS test has some good tips if you struggle with spelling.
Read more
May 14, 2025
Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
Good question! Our IELTS Prepare Hub has lots of free resources you can use to get ready for your test. These include practice tests, masterclasses, videos, articles and our IELTS Prepare by IDP video podcast series. You can find these resources on our website: IELTS Prepare Hub
Read more
Feb 18, 2025
How can I manage my time in the IELTS Reading test?
Reading Academic & Academic UKVI Preparation Test tips
Last answered by Linda
Answers from experts
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Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
The IELTS Reading test has 3 parts and you have 60 minutes to answer 40 questions. It’s best to spend no more than 20 minutes on each part. The reading passages get more challenging as you move through the test, so make sure you leave enough time to complete the final part.
During your preparation, focus on learning and practising reading techniques that help you read more quickly and accurately. Some examples include skimming, scanning and strategies for guessing words you don’t know.
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Aug 5, 2025
Reza Tasviri
IELTS Expert
As a rule of thumb, become a good reader: read for pleasure daily. It can be anything; news, a novel, social media posts, or magazines. When we read for pleasure, we don’t get stuck with words. We try to guess and move on, so make a habit of it. There are some techniques though that can help you: read the questions first, remember key words, and then scan the passage quickly. You don’t need to read every line at this stage. Look at headings and graphs or pictures and read the first couple of sentences of each paragraph to know what it is about and where you can find information. You then only go to the relevant section in the passage to find the piece of information you’re after.
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Feb 7, 2025
Answers
How can I manage my time in the IELTS Reading test?
Reading Academic & Academic UKVI Preparation Test tips
Last answered by Linda
Answers from experts
- Most recent
- Oldest
Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
The IELTS Reading test has 3 parts and you have 60 minutes to answer 40 questions. It’s best to spend no more than 20 minutes on each part. The reading passages get more challenging as you move through the test, so make sure you leave enough time to complete the final part.
During your preparation, focus on learning and practising reading techniques that help you read more quickly and accurately. Some examples include skimming, scanning and strategies for guessing words you don’t know.
Read more
Aug 5, 2025
Reza Tasviri
IELTS Expert
As a rule of thumb, become a good reader: read for pleasure daily. It can be anything; news, a novel, social media posts, or magazines. When we read for pleasure, we don’t get stuck with words. We try to guess and move on, so make a habit of it. There are some techniques though that can help you: read the questions first, remember key words, and then scan the passage quickly. You don’t need to read every line at this stage. Look at headings and graphs or pictures and read the first couple of sentences of each paragraph to know what it is about and where you can find information. You then only go to the relevant section in the passage to find the piece of information you’re after.
Read more
Feb 7, 2025
How can I improve my pronunciation for the IELTS Speaking test?
Speaking General Training & General Training UKVI Results General information
Last answered by Rocco
Answers from experts
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Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
It can be an idea to do a lot of listening practice, especially with video as it you can see how the speaker moves their mouth and face, that is, if you don't have the opportunity to engage with native speakers. Record yourself and listen back to your speaking to compare.
Jun 17, 2025
Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
Try recording yourself and then playing back the recording. This can help you identify areas for improvement like word stress and intonation. If you’re not sure what areas you need to work on, ask a teacher to listen to your recordings to give you feedback.
May 29, 2025
Answers
How can I improve my pronunciation for the IELTS Speaking test?
Speaking General Training & General Training UKVI Results General information
Last answered by Rocco
Answers from experts
- Most recent
- Oldest
Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
It can be an idea to do a lot of listening practice, especially with video as it you can see how the speaker moves their mouth and face, that is, if you don't have the opportunity to engage with native speakers. Record yourself and listen back to your speaking to compare.
Read more
Jun 17, 2025
Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
Try recording yourself and then playing back the recording. This can help you identify areas for improvement like word stress and intonation. If you’re not sure what areas you need to work on, ask a teacher to listen to your recordings to give you feedback.
Read more
May 29, 2025
How can I get better at understanding charts and graphs for the Academic Writing Task 1?
Writing Academic & Academic UKVI Results General information
Last answered by Rocco
Answers from experts
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Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
It can be a good idea to pair together the items that have similar trends, changes and differences. This will help you focus more on language of comparison and contrast and more aware of the main trends. Also look out for any exceptions and make a note of them in your description.
Aug 7, 2025
Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
Look at the overall trends first. Group them together according to which ones are similar. E.g. put the categories that have had an increase or positive change in one paragraph. Describe how they are similar and then explain the differences. Then do the same thing for the items that decreased in another paragraph.
Jun 17, 2025
Answers
How can I get better at understanding charts and graphs for the Academic Writing Task 1?
Writing Academic & Academic UKVI Results General information
Last answered by Rocco
Answers from experts
- Most recent
- Oldest
Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
It can be a good idea to pair together the items that have similar trends, changes and differences. This will help you focus more on language of comparison and contrast and more aware of the main trends. Also look out for any exceptions and make a note of them in your description.
Read more
Aug 7, 2025
Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
Look at the overall trends first. Group them together according to which ones are similar. E.g. put the categories that have had an increase or positive change in one paragraph. Describe how they are similar and then explain the differences. Then do the same thing for the items that decreased in another paragraph.
Read more
Jun 17, 2025
Do I have to bring my passport when I do my IELTS test or can I use another type of ID?
Academic & Academic UKVI Test day Test day procedures
Last answered by Fahad
Answers from experts
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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
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
Answers
Do I have to bring my passport when I do my IELTS test or can I use another type of ID?
Academic & Academic UKVI Test day Test day procedures
Last answered by Fahad
Answers from experts
- Most recent
- Oldest
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.
Read more
Jul 22, 2025
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.
Read more
Feb 7, 2025
Can you give me some tips for summary completion questions in the IELTS Reading test?
Reading Academic & Academic UKVI Results General information
Last answered by Reza
Answers from experts
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Reza Tasviri
IELTS Expert
Sure. A few things to remember: the questions and answers are in the same order as the passage. It’s always good to do the gaps one after the other instead of jumping or moving around and always look for keywords because they help take you to where the answers in the passage are.
Jun 30, 2025
Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
The missing words in the summary are often different from the words in the text. They might be synonyms e.g. ‘result’ and ‘outcome’. Or they might be the same word in a different form (e.g. a verb in the text and then the noun form in the summary such as ‘succeed’ and ‘success’).
Look at the gaps in the summary to work out what part of speech is missing (e.g. noun, verb, adjective etc)
Read more
May 27, 2025
Answers
Can you give me some tips for summary completion questions in the IELTS Reading test?
Reading Academic & Academic UKVI Results General information
Last answered by Reza
Answers from experts
- Most recent
- Oldest
Reza Tasviri
IELTS Expert
Sure. A few things to remember: the questions and answers are in the same order as the passage. It’s always good to do the gaps one after the other instead of jumping or moving around and always look for keywords because they help take you to where the answers in the passage are.
Read more
Jun 30, 2025
Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
The missing words in the summary are often different from the words in the text. They might be synonyms e.g. ‘result’ and ‘outcome’. Or they might be the same word in a different form (e.g. a verb in the text and then the noun form in the summary such as ‘succeed’ and ‘success’).
Look at the gaps in the summary to work out what part of speech is missing (e.g. noun, verb, adjective etc)
Read more
May 27, 2025
How can I reach band 6 in IELTS Writing?
Writing
Last answered by Linda
Answers from experts
Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
For Writing, look at the Band 6 marking criteria after your next practice test. Compare your response. Did you answer all the parts of the question or did you miss something? Did you divide your essay into logical paragraphs or did you write it as one big block of text? Did you use a range of vocabulary or did you repeat the same words from the question prompts? Did you include some complex sentence structures or did you mainly use simple ones? These are some of the things that can make a difference to your final score.
Read more
Jun 17, 2026
Answers
How can I reach band 6 in IELTS Writing?
Writing
Last answered by Linda
Answers from experts
Linda Alley
IELTS Expert
For Writing, look at the Band 6 marking criteria after your next practice test. Compare your response. Did you answer all the parts of the question or did you miss something? Did you divide your essay into logical paragraphs or did you write it as one big block of text? Did you use a range of vocabulary or did you repeat the same words from the question prompts? Did you include some complex sentence structures or did you mainly use simple ones? These are some of the things that can make a difference to your final score.
Read more
Jun 17, 2026
I’m nervous about taking the IELTS General Training test because I haven’t done any exams since I was in high school 10 years ago. Can you please share some study tips?
General Training & General Training UKVI
Last answered by Lewis
Answers from experts
Lewis Crannitch
IELTS Expert
One of the best ways to build confidence is to become familiar with the IELTS test format before test day.
Some useful tips include:
• Start preparing early and study regularly.
• Complete practice tests under timed conditions.
• Focus on one skill at a time: Listening, Reading, Writing, or Speaking.
• Use official IELTS preparation materials whenever possible.
• Consider taking a mock test before your actual IELTS test.
You can find free preparation materials here
The more familiar you become with the IELTS test format and question types, the more confident you are likely to feel on test day.
Read more
Jun 9, 2026
Answers
I’m nervous about taking the IELTS General Training test because I haven’t done any exams since I was in high school 10 years ago. Can you please share some study tips?
General Training & General Training UKVI
Last answered by Lewis
Answers from experts
Lewis Crannitch
IELTS Expert
One of the best ways to build confidence is to become familiar with the IELTS test format before test day.
Some useful tips include:
• Start preparing early and study regularly.
• Complete practice tests under timed conditions.
• Focus on one skill at a time: Listening, Reading, Writing, or Speaking.
• Use official IELTS preparation materials whenever possible.
• Consider taking a mock test before your actual IELTS test.
You can find free preparation materials here
The more familiar you become with the IELTS test format and question types, the more confident you are likely to feel on test day.
Read more
Jun 9, 2026
I need an IELTS band 4. How should I prepare?
Preparation Free preparation
Last answered by Lewis
Answers from experts
Lewis Crannitch
IELTS Expert
A band score of 4 is an achievable goal for many learners with regular practice and preparation.
I recommend starting by becoming familiar with the IELTS test format and question types. This will help you understand what to expect on test day and identify areas that need improvement.
You can access free preparation resources here:
• IELTS New Zealand preparation materials and practice tests
https://ielts.co.nz/newzealand/prepare-for-ielts
• E2 Test Prep, an official IELTS preparation partner
https://www.e2language.com
If you'd like support from a teacher, IELTS New Zealand also has a list of approved IELTS preparation providers:
https://ielts.co.nz/newzealand/about/ielts-approved-preparation-provider
Consistent study and regular practice are often the key to achieving your target score.
Read more
Jun 9, 2026
Answers
I need an IELTS band 4. How should I prepare?
Preparation Free preparation
Last answered by Lewis
Answers from experts
Lewis Crannitch
IELTS Expert
A band score of 4 is an achievable goal for many learners with regular practice and preparation.
I recommend starting by becoming familiar with the IELTS test format and question types. This will help you understand what to expect on test day and identify areas that need improvement.
You can access free preparation resources here:
• IELTS New Zealand preparation materials and practice tests
https://ielts.co.nz/newzealand/prepare-for-ielts
• E2 Test Prep, an official IELTS preparation partner
https://www.e2language.com
If you'd like support from a teacher, IELTS New Zealand also has a list of approved IELTS preparation providers:
https://ielts.co.nz/newzealand/about/ielts-approved-preparation-provider
Consistent study and regular practice are often the key to achieving your target score.
Read more
Jun 9, 2026
Which IELTS test do I need for my AEWV in New Zealand?
Academic & Academic UKVI
Last answered by Lewis
Answers from experts
Lewis Crannitch
IELTS Expert
Immigration New Zealand accepts both IELTS General Training and IELTS Academic for AEWV applications.
However, IELTS General Training is usually the preferred option as it is the test most commonly taken for migration purposes.
Many applicants who need to provide evidence of English proficiency are currently required to achieve an overall IELTS score of 4.0 or above, but requirements can vary depending on your occupation and circumstances.
Official INZ requirements:
https://www.immigration.govt.nz/process-to-apply/applying-for-a-visa/providing-evidence-and-documents-to-support-your-visa-application/english-language-requirements/english-language-requirements-for-an-accredited-employer-work-visa/
More information:
https://ielts.co.nz/newzealand/about/news-and-articles/article-do-you-need-ielts-for-aewv-application
Please note: After 27 June 2026, IELTS tests in New Zealand will be delivered by computer only.
Read more
Jun 9, 2026
Answers
Which IELTS test do I need for my AEWV in New Zealand?
Academic & Academic UKVI
Last answered by Lewis
Answers from experts
Lewis Crannitch
IELTS Expert
Immigration New Zealand accepts both IELTS General Training and IELTS Academic for AEWV applications.
However, IELTS General Training is usually the preferred option as it is the test most commonly taken for migration purposes.
Many applicants who need to provide evidence of English proficiency are currently required to achieve an overall IELTS score of 4.0 or above, but requirements can vary depending on your occupation and circumstances.
Official INZ requirements:
https://www.immigration.govt.nz/process-to-apply/applying-for-a-visa/providing-evidence-and-documents-to-support-your-visa-application/english-language-requirements/english-language-requirements-for-an-accredited-employer-work-visa/
More information:
https://ielts.co.nz/newzealand/about/news-and-articles/article-do-you-need-ielts-for-aewv-application
Please note: After 27 June 2026, IELTS tests in New Zealand will be delivered by computer only.
Read more
Jun 9, 2026
Do you have any advice for Arabic speakers who want to improve their IELTS Writing?
Writing
Last answered by Fahad
Answers from experts
Fahad Rafique
IELTS Expert
Specifically for Arabic speakers, writing long sentences is the key factor in losing points. You need to be precise and direct in English. While long, connecting sentences work well in Arabic, it is not the case for English writing. Avoid overusing words like and, also, or but as connectors; instead, use full stops and commas to break up your thoughts. Stick to your main points and give a straightforward answer. This doesn't mean you shouldn't explain your points thoroughly, just be concise with your grammar and use separate, shorter sentences. Finally, don't translate directly from Arabic to English. Rather, train yourself to think in English while writing.
Read more
Jun 5, 2026
Answers
Do you have any advice for Arabic speakers who want to improve their IELTS Writing?
Writing
Last answered by Fahad
Answers from experts
Fahad Rafique
IELTS Expert
Specifically for Arabic speakers, writing long sentences is the key factor in losing points. You need to be precise and direct in English. While long, connecting sentences work well in Arabic, it is not the case for English writing. Avoid overusing words like and, also, or but as connectors; instead, use full stops and commas to break up your thoughts. Stick to your main points and give a straightforward answer. This doesn't mean you shouldn't explain your points thoroughly, just be concise with your grammar and use separate, shorter sentences. Finally, don't translate directly from Arabic to English. Rather, train yourself to think in English while writing.
Read more
Jun 5, 2026
How can I speak more fluently?
Speaking
Last answered by Fahad
Answers from experts
Fahad Rafique
IELTS Expert
Fluency is a core component tested during the IELTS Speaking exam. It measures your ability to speak smoothly and at length without unnatural hesitation or pauses. You can improve your fluency by practicing solo: record yourself answering prompts, listen for where you stall, and use professional fillers like "That is an interesting question..." to buy thinking time. Additionally, mimic the rhythm and pacing of speakers on podcasts or interviews to build natural confidence. Finally, immerse yourself by conversing with family and friends in English the week before your test to stay fully "in sync" with the language.
Read more
Jun 5, 2026
Answers
How can I speak more fluently?
Speaking
Last answered by Fahad
Answers from experts
Fahad Rafique
IELTS Expert
Fluency is a core component tested during the IELTS Speaking exam. It measures your ability to speak smoothly and at length without unnatural hesitation or pauses. You can improve your fluency by practicing solo: record yourself answering prompts, listen for where you stall, and use professional fillers like "That is an interesting question..." to buy thinking time. Additionally, mimic the rhythm and pacing of speakers on podcasts or interviews to build natural confidence. Finally, immerse yourself by conversing with family and friends in English the week before your test to stay fully "in sync" with the language.
Read more
Jun 5, 2026
Trending
Fahad Rafique
Canada
16 years
Experience
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
Trending
Jess Christie
Australia
8 years
Experience
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
Trending
Lewis Crannitch
New Zealand
2 years
Experience
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
Trending
Linda Alley
Australia
11 years
Experience
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
Trending
Reza Tasviri
Australia
18 years
Experience
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
Trending
Rocco Nigro
Australia
26 years
Experience
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
Trending
Vincent Blokker
Australia
11 years
Experience
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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Last answered by Fahad