Question 1

How does IELTS Online work?

Accepted Answer

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 Integrity Browser (IIB). 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.

Question 2

How is the test monitored?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 3

Is One Skill Retake available for IELTS Online?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

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

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

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

Question 6

Where is IELTS Online available?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 7

Who accepts IELTS Online test scores?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 8

Is the test suitable for immigration purposes?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 9

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

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 10

Are special arrangements available for IELTS Online?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 11

Is IELTS Online the same as IELTS on paper and on computer?

Accepted Answer

The test format, scoring, and timing of the test is the same as the IELTS Academic test taken on paper or computer in a test centre.
The Listening, Reading, and Writing tests are done in the same way as IELTS on computer. You will do the Speaking test with an IELTS Examiner in a live video call.

Question 12

Is the Speaking test face-to-face?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you will do the IELTS Online Speaking test through a video call with a certified IELTS Examiner.

Question 13

How long is the IELTS Online test?

Accepted Answer

IELTS Online has the same format as IELTS Academic in a test centre. Listening is 30 minutes, followed by Reading for 60 minutes and then Writing for 60 minutes. The Speaking test is usually held a day before the Listening, Reading, and Writing tests and lasts for 11–14 minutes.

Question 14

How do I book my IELTS Online test?

Accepted Answer

IELTS Online is easy to book – just visit our website.

Question 15

How far in advance do I need to book my test?

Accepted Answer

We recommend booking your IELTS Online test as early as possible to secure your preferred time and date.

If you are a national of the country where you’re taking the test, you can book up to 48 hours before your test time.

If you are not a national, you must provide proof of residency, and you need to book at least four days in advance to allow time for residency verification. Please note that four days is the minimum — booking earlier is strongly recommended to ensure your documents can be processed in time.

If you book within three days of the test and your ID is not from the country of registration, your test may be cancelled and refunded.If you're not currently residing in the country, you may prefer to book an IELTS on Computer test at a test centre, which does not require proof of residency.

Question 16

How much does IELTS Online cost?

Accepted Answer

Please visit the IELTS Online booking page to see the price.

Question 17

What ID do I need to book IELTS Online?

Accepted Answer

You will need a current passport to book and to take IELTS Online. You will need to have this with you during your test too.

Question 18

What special requirements are available for IELTS Online?

Accepted Answer

If you need extra support, we recommend that you book IELTS on paper or IELTS on computer at a test centre. They can make special arrangements for you there.

Question 19

How can I prepare for the IELTS test?

Accepted Answer

To prepare for the IELTS test, familiarise yourself with the format across all four test sections – Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking – by reviewing official practice materials and test guides available on IDP’s website. Practise English daily, both written and spoken, to enhance your fluency and confidence when communicating in English. You should also take advantage of online resources, including practice tests, to build your confidence and help identify areas for improvement.

Question 20

What is the IELTS Online cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

You can cancel your IELTS Online test up to 72 hours before your test date.
Find out more about the IELTS Online cancellation policy.

Question 21

Is One Skill Retake available for IELTS Online?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 22

Do I need to be a resident of the country I’m taking the IELTS Online test in?

Accepted Answer

Yes. To take IELTS Online, you must be a resident of the country where you are booking and sitting the test. You also must be physically present in that country on test day.If your ID was not issued in the country where you're registered to take the test, you may be asked to provide proof of residency.

Acceptable documents include:

A valid visa or residence permit

A utility bill or bank statement (dated within the last 3 months)

A rental agreement

A university enrolment letter (for international students)

An employment letter or recent payslip

If you cannot provide proof of residency, your test may be cancelled and refunded.If you are not a resident, you may instead consider booking an IELTS on Computer test at a test centre, which does not have this requirement.

Question 23

Can I take notes during my test?

Accepted Answer

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, and for part 2 of your Speaking test.
To find out about the key features of the test platform, including how to make notes or flag a question, along with information on how the test is supervised, watch our IELTS Online tutorial videos.

Question 24

If I make a mistake during my test, can I go back and change my answers?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 25

Will I be able to take a break during my test?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 26

Will I be able to speak to the proctor?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can contact the proctor by raising your hand and waiting for them to contact you.

Question 27

Will I see the remote proctor?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 28

What will happen if my internet cuts out?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 29

Can I access other programs or browsers?

Accepted Answer

No, you will not be able to access any other programs or browsers during the test.

Question 30

When will I receive my results?

Accepted Answer

You will receive your results typically within 6 days after taking your test.

Question 31

How will I receive my results?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 32

Will I be given a score for each test (Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking), including an overall score?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you will be awarded an overall band score and band scores for each of the four tests: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking.

Question 33

Who will mark my IELTS Online test?

Accepted Answer

IELTS Online is marked by official IELTS Examiners, using the same IELTS marking criteria as IELTS on computer and IELTS on paper.

Question 34

Can I use the IELTS Online results the same way as results from a test centre?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 35

How do I share my test results with my chosen institution(s)?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 36

How will my chosen institution(s) receive my test results and how will they verify my score?

Accepted Answer

Educational institutions and organisations will receive your electronic IELTS Online Test Report Form (e-TRF) and use the IELTS Results Verification Service to verify your IELTS scores.

Question 37

What is the Enquiry on Results (EOR) process for IELTS Online?

Accepted Answer

The Enquiry on Results (EOR) process for IELTS Online is the same as IELTS taken in a test centre. For more information, please visit the IELTS results page in your IDP IELTS account.

Question 38

How is my personal data being used?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 39

How can I access my personal data?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 40

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

Accepted Answer

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