At IDP IELTS, your safety and comfort on test day are our top priorities. To support our commitment to child protection, we require a chaperone for all test-takers under 18 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" , to acknowledge this requirement, so it's important to understand how it works 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.
A Mandatory Safety Requirement for Minors
We want to be clear: having a chaperone present for your Speaking test is mandatory for all candidates under 18. Consider these points:
The chaperone service is a standard safety protocol to ensure the protection of both the candidate and the examiner.
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 Fill & Submit the Consent Form
Download the "Chaperone/Guardian Consent Form.” This is available on the IDP IELTS Thailand website.
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, ensure your parent or guardian understands that a chaperone is required by IDP policy for all minors.
How to fill a consent form
What to Expect on Test Day
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. |