IELTS Online test: Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

For information on how to prepare for your IELTS Online test please see our IELTS Online tutorial videos here .

Please see here for Equipment, System requirements, and Support.

General questions

How does IELTS Online work?

You will need a laptop or desktop computer with the right hardware and software installed. Your microphone and camera must be on for the whole test. For a full list of system and equipment you need see equipment, system requirements, and support.

Before taking the test, you will also need to download and install Inspera Exam Portal (IEP). We recommend you install the portal at least a day before your test, and run the systems check to make sure it runs on your computer.

How is the test monitored?

IELTS Online uses human and artificial intelligence (AI) proctoring to supervise your test. Your remote proctor is an IELTS invigilator who will monitor your Listening, Reading, and Writing tests online, just as they would if you took your test in a test centre. Having remote proctors ensures IELTS Online maintains the high security standards set by IELTS and trusted by recognising organisations around the world.

Is One Skill Retake available for IELTS Online?

No. One Skill Retake is not currently available for IELTS Online. take One Skill Retake you must have sat your original test in a test centre.

Is IELTS Online available for both IELTS Academic and General Training?

No. IELTS Online is currently only available for IELTS Academic. IELTS Online is not accepted for migration purposes. 

How old do you need to be to take IELTS Online?

IELTS Online is currently available to test takers aged 18 and above.

Where is IELTS Online available?

IELTS Online is available in over 60 countries and territories worldwide. Please see our booking page to see if IELTS Online is available where you are.

Who accepts IELTS Online test scores?

IELTS is widely recognised by universities and other education providers around the world. If your preferred organisation accepts IELTS Online, you can use your results in exactly the same way as if you have taken IELTS at a test centre.

Before you book, check with your preferred organisation directly to make sure they accept IELTS Online. IELTS Online is not suitable for immigration or professional registration purposes.

Is the test suitable for immigration purposes?

No, IELTS Online is not currently accepted for immigration purposes.

Do I have to be at home to take the test?

No. You don’t need to be at home to take your test. You will need a private, well-lit space where you won’t be interrupted, with a stable internet connection. For full information on how to set up your test space, please see our IELTS Online tutorial videos here.

Are special arrangements available for IELTS Online?

Special arrangements are not available for IELTS Online but, if you are vision impaired, have a speech impediment, or any other medical condition which means you can only take IELTS under special arrangements, our IELTS test centres can help you. We can offer braille paper, larger paper, enlarged written prompts on the Speaking task card, special Listening test, lip reading version of Listening test, special amplification equipment, word processing software and voice-activated software. It is best to contact your test venue before booking your IELTS test and they will be able to advise on the next available test dates. The notice time can vary depending on the modifications needed for your test.

Data and privacy

How is my personal data being used?

For IELTS Online we collect and store your personal data to:

administer your IELTS Online test

make sure the test if fair and prevent fraud

improve the way in which IELTS Online is administered

For more information about how we use your personal data, read the IELTS Online Privacy Notice.

How can I access my personal data?

If you would like to access your personal data, please email: privacyofficer@idp.com

Is my test recorded, and if so, how long is it kept for?

Yes, IELTS Online records both a video of you, the audio of the test, and what is on your computer screen.

Your Listening, Reading, and Writing test audio and video recording is held for 60 days after your IELTS Online test

Your Speaking test video recording is held for 3 months after your IELTS Online test

Your Speaking test audio recording is held for 3 years after your IELTS Online test

IELTS Online: FAQs

General questions

Booking, Cancellation, refunds, and retakes

During the test

Results, scores, and Test Report Forms (TRFs)

Data and privacy

IELTS Online Checklist

The day before your test

On Speaking test day

On Listening, Reading and Writing test day