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Need more information about the IELTS Online test? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions.
IELTS Online FAQs
IELTS Online is the new way to take the IELTS Academic test. You can now choose to take the world’s leading English language test at home or in a private location with a stable internet connection.
It has the same test format and duration as IELTS Academic taken in a test centre, but IELTS Online gives you the opportunity to choose where you want to take the test from.
The Speaking test is conducted online via video call with an IELTS Examiner.
It uses the same IELTS multi-layered security processes in pre-test, test day and post-test operations. Recognising Organisations (ROs) will use the same online verification system as the one used to verify in-centre results.
The test format, scoring, and timing of the test is the same as IELTS Academic on paper and computer taken in a test centre.
The Listening, Reading, and Writing tests are delivered in the same way as IELTS on computer. The Speaking test is conducted online via video call with an IELTS Examiner.
Yes, at IELTS we believe face-to-face conversational English is important, therefore the IELTS Online Speaking test is conducted online via video call with a certified IELTS Examiner.
No, you do not need to be at home to take your test. You need a private, well-lit space where you will not be interrupted, and a stable internet connection.
We advise you to check with your chosen institution(s) directly before booking IELTS Online
IELTS Online is currently available to test takers aged 18 and above.
Set-up and equipment
To take IELTS Online you must have a laptop or desktop computer with one screen only; multiple screens are not allowed.
To check if your laptop/computer is suitable, please read about the minimum technical requirements on our IELTS Online page.
No, you cannot take IELTS Online using a mobile phone, tablet or Chromebook.
No, headphones are not permitted.
For more information, visit the IELTS Online page.
Yes, you need a microphone and speakers to take IELTS Online.
For more information, please go to the IELTS Online page.
To check if your internet speed is suitable, please read the IELTS Online equipment, technical and environment requirements.
To take IELTS Online you need:
- a quiet, private and well-lit space with a desk
- a stable internet connection
- a laptop or desktop computer
- a microphone and speakers (headphones not allowed)
- a camera (internal or external)
- a passport
- a mobile phone or tablet with a camera for use during the room scan at check-in only.
For more information, please read the IELTS Online equipment, technical and environment requirements.
Booking IELTS Online
IELTS Online is easy to book – just visit our website.
Please book your IELTS Online test at least 48 hours in advance of your planned test date.
Please visit the IELTS Online booking page to see the price.
IELTS Online is being rolled out around the world in 2022. For the latest updates, please keep checking our website.
You will need a valid passport to book and to take IELTS Online. You will need to have this with you during your test too.
If you require any other adjustments, we recommend that you book IELTS on paper or IELTS on computer, taken in a test centre, where reasonable adjustments can be provided.
Preparing for IELTS Online
To help familiarise yourself with the IELTS Online test, we have created the following preparation resources:
IELTS Online tutorial videos.
IELTS Online Speaking test video.
You can also use the IELTS practice materials already available on our website.
Yes, IELTS Online is the same test as IELTS Academic, which means that you can use the same practice materials already available on our website.
During the test
You cannot take notes using pen and paper during your test, however, you can make notes on screen during your Listening, Reading and Writing tests.
To find out about the key features of the test platform, including how to make notes, watch our IELTS Online tutorial videos.
Yes, if you have time left during a test section, then you can go back and change your answers in that same test section.
To find out about the key features of the test platform, including how to flag a question, watch our IELTS Online tutorial videos.
You are allowed one 5-minute bathroom break during your Listening, Reading and Writing tests. This must be taken in between tests, e.g. between the end of the Listening test and the start of the Reading test.
To take a bathroom break, raise your hand and wait for the proctor to call you. Do not leave your desk without the permission of the proctor.
Yes, you can contact the proctor by raising your hand and waiting for them to contact you.
No. They will only appear if something seems wrong, or if you raise your hand to take a bathroom break or to ask a question.
If you lose your internet connection briefly during your test, you will be given extra time equal to the time lost to complete your test.
If you lose your internet connection for a substantial amount of time and need to retake your test, this will be organised by our customer support team on ieltsonline@idp.com.
Results, scores, and Test Report Forms (TRFs)
IELTS Online is marked by official IELTS Examiners, using the same IELTS marking criteria as IELTS on computer and IELTS on paper.
You will receive your results typically within 6 days after taking your test.
You will receive an email telling you your results are available and how to access them electronically.
No paper Test Report Forms (TRFs) will be available.
Yes, you will be awarded an overall band score and band scores for each of the four tests: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking.
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.
As part of the booking process, you can select which institution(s) you would like to share your IELTS Online results with. Your results will be sent to them directly.
Technical troubleshooting
Before you book, we advise that you read the visit the IELTS Online page.
Once you have booked the test you will be emailed information about how to carry out a pre-test system check on your laptop/computer.
Your IELTS Online booking confirmation email will include instructions to help you and provide contact details for our support team.
If you experience any issues before your test, please contact us on ieltsonline@idp.com as soon as possible.
If you have a technical issue during your test and if it is possible to do so, contact the support team via the Live Chat. If that is not possible, contact the support team via email on ieltsonline@idp.com.
You will be given extra time equal to the time lost from the technical issue to complete your test.
Cancellations, refunds, and retakes
Yes, you can retake the test as soon as you are ready.
You can cancel your IELTS Online test up to 72 hours before your test date.
Find out more about the IELTS Online cancellation policy.
Data and privacy
For IELTS Online we collect and store your personal data to:
- administer your IELTS Online test
- ensure test integrity 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.
If you would like to access your personal data, please email: privacyofficer@idp.com
Yes, both a video and audio recording of you and your computer screen is captured during your IELTS Online test.
- 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 Checklist
On Listening, Reading and Writing test day
Learn about the dos and don'ts for your Listening, Reading and Writing tests!
