The official IELTS by IDP app is here! Download it today.

Close

Effective 16th of January 2025, non-residents in the Philippines can no longer take IELTS on Paper. However, they can still take IELTS on Computer, which offers a modern and convenient test format.

Residency Requirements for IELTS on Paper

Non-residents booking an IELTS on Paper test will be required to provide acceptable proof of residence in the Philippines, valid for a minimum of 3 months, via email at least 3 days before their scheduled test date.

If a test taker is unable to provide acceptable proof of residence within the stipulated deadline, then their IELTS on Paper booking will be cancelled.

Test takers unable to provide acceptable proof of residence will be allowed to take an IELTS on Computer test without any proof of residence.

Acceptable Proof of Residence:

  1. Student Visa – Must clearly state the purpose, duration, and expiry date, stamped in the passport.

    1. Special Study Permit (SSP) is also acceptable in lieu of a Student Visa.

  2. Work Permit – Includes both:

    • A valid Employment Visa (stating status and expiry) stamped in the passport.

    • A Work Permit document (showing expiry date).

  3. Residence Permit – Includes valid Long-Term Stay or Dependent Visa (showing expiry date).

  • If you are unsure about the validity of your residency proof, please contact our Customer Support team at ielts.philippines@idp.com.

Key Points to Note:

  1. Existing Bookings:

    Non-residents who registered for IELTS on Paper before 16 January 2025 will not need to provide proof of residence. This requirement applies only to bookings made on or after this date.

  2. Response Timeline: Once notified, test takers must provide proof of residence within 72 hours. Failure to do so will result in the cancellation of the booking and a full refund.

  3. Test Day Requirements: Approved non-resident test takers must present the same residency documents used during registration on the test day. Failure to present the required documents will result in being denied entry to the test.

  4. Alternative Option: Test takers who cannot provide acceptable proof of residence can register for the IELTS on Computer test, which does not require proof of residence.

Exceptions to Residency Requirements

  1. Passport Holders of Countries Where IELTS is Not Offered
    Passport holders of countries where IELTS is not available will be allowed to sit for IELTS in any format without needing to provide evidence of residency.

  2. Refugee Status
    Test takers holding refugee status will be allowed to sit for IELTS in any format without needing to provide evidence of residency. In cases where a test taker’s status is unclear due to lack of formal documentation, the matter will be referred to regional teams for approval.

Why Choose IELTS on Computer?

IELTS on Computer offers all the benefits of the traditional paper-based test with added convenience:

  • Smaller Groups: Conducted in smaller batches, ensuring a more personalized experience.

  • Faster Results: Receive your results within 1 - 2 days.

  • Same-Day Speaking Test: Enjoy the convenience of completing all test components on the same day.

  • Modern Test Environment: Take the test on a user-friendly interface with advanced technology.

Registered test takers will also get access to IDP’s exclusive preparation materials, including:

  • IELTS Masterclass Sessions

  • Practice Tests

  • Tips from IELTS Experts

Need Assistance?

  • If you have questions about the residency requirements or IELTS on Computer, contact our team at ielts.philippines@idp.com or call us at (+632) 8535-3320.

Ready to Book Your Test?

Visit to register for IELTS on Computer and start your journey toward achieving your dream band score!

Book now