What is the difference between IELTS and IELTS for UKVI?

IELTS and IELTS for UKVI are exactly the same test in terms of format, content, scoring and level of difficulty. The only difference is an IELTS for UKVI test is approved by the UK Home Office for work, study and migration purposes. If you take an IELTS for UKVI test, your test report form will be a little different to show that you have taken an IELTS for UKVI test at an approved IELTS test centre.

Are the questions tested before they get used in the IELTS test?

Of course! Every test question that appears on the IELTS test is designed, screened and tested by Cambridge Assessment English (CAE) to ensure it meets standard requirements before being released as test material. This can take up to two years to ensure every question complies with our high standards for all test takers. Our research ensures IELTS remains fair and unbiased for anyone who sits the test, regardless of nationality, background, gender or lifestyle. Our highly trusted team ensures every version of the test is of comparable difficulty.

What is the difference between IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training?

If you plan to migrate to Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the UK or the USA, taking an IELTS General Training test makes sense. Or if you are planning on studying in secondary education, or enrolling in vocational training, this might still be the right choice. But if you plan to study in higher education or want professional registration in an English-speaking country, you might need to take an IELTS Academic test.

What band score do I need to study abroad?

The band score you need to study abroad is set by the institution to which you are applying and not by IELTS. The score needed to apply for a course may vary based on the institution or programme you want to apply for. If you are not sure which band score you need to apply for your desired course, check out our Who accepts IELTS page or double-check with the institution you wish to apply to.

What is the difference between IELTS on paper and IELTS on computer?

If you choose to take IELTS on computer, you will take the Listening, Reading and Writing test parts using a computer. If you choose to take the IELTS on paper, you will complete the Listening, Reading and Writing test parts on paper. The Speaking test for both paper and computer are face to face with an examiner. This is the best way to measure your speaking skills as it takes a more realistic approach: a life-like conversation with an examiner.

Will the IELTS test centre send my results to universities overseas?

When booking your IELTS test, you are given the option to have your IELTS results sent up to up to 5 nominated institutions. If you have already taken the test and would like to send your results to a recognising organisation, contact the test centre where you sat your exam. They will be able to help. Note that there may be additional fees for this.

What is the price of the IELTS for UKVI Academic test?

The price of the IELTS for UKVI Academic test is approx $270 USD. Check the IELTS booking system for accurate prices.

IELTS for UKVI Academic Indonesia

If you're planning to study abroad from Indonesia—especially in the UK—choosing the right IELTS test is one of the most important first steps. Two options are commonly available: IELTS Academic and IELTS UKVI Academic. While both versions assess your English proficiency across listening, reading, writing, and speaking, they serve different purposes depending on your visa and institution requirements.

Understanding the differences between these two test types can help you avoid delays, extra expenses, or even a rejected visa application. This guide is designed to help Indonesian students make an informed decision when selecting the appropriate IELTS test for studying or migrating abroad.

Find Available Test Dates Here!

What’s the Difference Between IELTS Academic and IELTS UKVI (Academic)?

Feature	IELTS Academic	IELTS UKVI Academic
Purpose	For studying at undergraduate or postgraduate level	For UK student visa and higher education
Test Content	Same as UKVI Academic	Same as IELTS Academic
Security & Administration	Standard security	Extra security required by UKVI
Accepted by	Institutions in the UK, Australia, Canada, USA, etc.	UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI) and academic institutions
Location Availability	More widely available	Only at approved UKVI test centres
Fee	Slightly lower	Slightly higher due to added security

Quick Summary: Which Test Should You Take?

It all depends on your study destination and whether you need a student visa for the UK. If you're applying to countries like Australia, New Zealand, Canada, or the USA, then the standard IELTS Academic is usually sufficient.

However, if you're applying to a UK university and need a Tier 4 student visa, then IELTS UKVI Academic is typically required. Always confirm with your school and immigration advisor before registering.

✅ Choose IELTS Academic if:

You are applying to universities outside of the UK.
You do NOT need a UK student visa.
Your university or college does not specifically ask for the UKVI version.

✅ Choose IELTS UKVI Academic if:

You need a Tier 4 UK Student Visa.
You are applying to a UKVI-listed sponsor institution.
Your course or visa application specifically requires UKVI.

Remember, taking the wrong test could lead to additional costs, delays, or having to retake the exam.

IELTS UKVI Academic vs Academic at a Glance

This comparison helps Indonesian students decide based on visa needs, location, and institutional preferences.

Criteria	IELTS Academic	IELTS UKVI Academic
Accepted in the UK	Sometimes	✅ Always
Student Visa Compliance	❌ Not suitable for visa	✅ Meets visa requirement
Available in Indonesia	✅ Yes, widely	✅ Yes, at select centres
Test Cost	💲 Lower	💲💲 Higher due to security
Globally Recognized	✅ Yes	✅ Yes

📌 Pro Tip for Indonesian Students

Find Available Test Dates Here!

Step-by-Step Guide to Choosing the Right Test

Choosing the right IELTS test doesn’t have to be complicated. Follow these steps to ensure you're selecting the version that matches your study or visa goals.

Check the visa requirements for your study destination
1. If you’re applying to the UK, visit the official UKVI website or contact your education agent.
2. For Australia, Canada, or the USA, IELTS Academic is typically accepted.
Contact your university or college
1. Universities in the UK may require IELTS for UKVI to meet visa requirements.
2. Ask them directly which version of the test is accepted for your course.
Find a test centre near you
1. IELTS Academic is available in multiple Indonesian cities.
2. IELTS UKVI is offered at UKVI-approved centres in major cities like Jakarta and Surabaya.
Book your test online through IDP
1. You can register for either test via IELTS IDP Indonesia.
2. Use your IDP account to access free preparation tools and check available dates.
Prepare using official resources
1. Download the IELTS by IDP App for sample tests, tips, and practice exercises.
2. You can also attend free webinars and info sessions hosted by IDP Indonesia.

Ready to Book Your IELTS Test?

If you're ready to take the next step, booking your IELTS test is quick and easy through IDP Indonesia. Here’s what you need to do:

Book your test for either IELTS Academic or IELTS UKVI Academic.
Choose your preferred test location — available in major cities like Jakarta, Surabaya, Bandung, and others across Indonesia.
Gain access to exclusive preparation materials, including practice tests, expert tips, and mock exams.
For added convenience, download the IELTS by IDP app to prepare on the go with mobile-friendly study tools and progress tracking.

Booking your IELTS with IDP Indonesia means more than just securing a test date — it’s your first step toward global study opportunities.