At IDP IELTS, your safety and comfort on test day are our top priorities. To support our commitment to child protection, we offer an optional chaperone service for test-takers under 20 specifically for the one-on-one Speaking test.
This article will help you understand this optional service and clarify what is required. Please note that a parent or guardian must sign the "Chaperone/Guardian Consent Form" regardless of your choice, so it's important to understand your options before completing it.
What Is a Chaperone?
A chaperone is an accredited IDP invigilator assigned to be present for a candidate’s welfare during their one-on-one Speaking test. It's important to distinguish between a guardian and a chaperone:
Guardian: The parent or legal guardian who signs the consent form.
Chaperone: An on-site invigilator assigned by IDP for the Speaking test portion of your day.
The chaperone’s role is strictly observational to ensure a safe and appropriate testing environment. They will not speak to you, make eye contact, or communicate with the examiner. Their presence is silent and neutral.
An Optional Service for Your Peace of Mind
We want to be clear: choosing a chaperone for your Speaking test is entirely optional. This choice will never affect your band score. Consider these points:
The chaperone service is an additional measure for those who want extra reassurance during the one-on-one interview.
For the Listening, Reading, and Writing sections, you will be in a main test hall with other candidates and standard invigilators. A special chaperone is not part of these sections.
How to Indicate Your Choice & Submit the Consent Form
Whether you opt for a chaperone or not, your parent or guardian must complete the official consent form.
Download the "Chaperone/Guardian Consent Form.” This is available on the IDP IELTS Thailand website.
Make Your Choice. On the form, your parent or guardian will indicate whether you wish to have a chaperone for the Speaking test or waive this option.
Provide an Original Signature. Your parent/guardian must sign the form with an ink signature.
Bring the Physical Form. You must bring the original, completed consent form to the test-centre reception on test day. Digital copies will be rejected.
ID Check. Your ID will be checked upon arrival as per standard procedure.
Pro-Tip: Before downloading, discuss with your parent or guardian whether you really need a chaperone. Remember to always bring the original signed consent form, regardless of your decision.
How to fill a consent form
What to Expect on Test Day (If a Chaperone is Requested)
If you choose to have a chaperone, here is what the day will look like:
Timeline | Candidate | Chaperone (Invigilator Role) |
|---|---|---|
Arrival | Present your ID & the consent form at reception. | Registers with IDP staff and receives an invigilator badge. |
Listening/Reading/Writing | Focus on your test in the main test room. | The chaperone is not present for these sessions. |
Speaking Test | You enter the interview room with the examiner. | Stays in the room silently, maintaining full neutrality. |
Departure | Collect your belongings and sign out. | Escorts you to the venue exit. |