Got a question about IELTS? Instead of sorting through different forums, blogs and social media posts, get answers from a source you can trust.
IELTS Community by IDP gives you free access to reliable information. As one of the co-owners of the IELTS test, you can feel confident that all the advice you receive is accurate and up to date.
To get you started, we’re sharing five of our most popular IELTS questions from our community this month, along with answers from our in-house IELTS experts.
This month’s most viewed IELTS FAQs: September 2026
We've chosen these IELTS questions based on the topics that got most attention in our IELTS Community this month.
FAQ #1: Can I bring my own pen to the IELTS test?
We know that feeling prepared for your IELTS test is not just about studying. It’s about knowing what to expect on test day so you can focus on what matters. If you’re wondering if you should take your own pen to your IELTS test, here’s the answer that IELTS expert Jess Christie shared in IELTS Community:
“Most IDP centres provide you with all the stationery you require for your IELTS test. If they don’t, they will let you know beforehand what you need to bring.”
FAQ #2: What is the difference between ‘Do you agree or disagree?’ and ‘to what extent do you agree or disagree’ in IELTS essay questions?
IELTS preparation is a frequently searched topic in IELTS Community and test takers want to know how to approach specific question types.
‘Do you agree or disagree’ asks you whether you share the same view as the statement. ‘To what extent’ is asking you how much you agree or disagree with it.
IELTS Community expert Rocco Nigro points out that in questions beginning with ‘to what extent’, you can choose to partially agree but you need to make sure you have a clear position throughout your essay.
FAQ #3: Are IELTS tests held on New Zealand public holidays?
Another popular question this month was about IELTS test bookings in New Zealand. Our Auckland-based IELTS expert Lewis Crannitch confirms that while you can take IELTS tests on some New Zealand public holidays, there are exceptions like Christmas Day, so it’s best to check the booking page for the most up to date information.
FAQ #4: Can I apply for Enquiry on Results and IELTS One Skill Retake at the same time?
If you didn’t get the IELTS score you were hoping for you, you might be eligible to retake one section of your IELTS test. IELTS is the only major English proficiency test to offer One Skill Retake, which allows you to retake one skill without having to repeat the whole test. You must take IELTS One Skill Retake within 60 days of your original test date.
Enquiry on Results is when you request a review of your score and have one or more sections re-marked.
While you can't apply for both at the same time, you may choose to apply for one and then the other later.
IELTS expert Fahad Rafique explains the process:
“You are able to apply for Enquiry on Result (EOR) / Remark once your results are released. You may opt for a One Skill Retake (OSR) once the EOR/remark is completed. Both of these options can't be fulfilled simultaneously. You may also request for an EOR/Remark of the OSR result. Information is available on our website and IELTS by IDP app for both EOR and OSR processes.”
FAQ #5: Who can apply for the IDP IELTS Future Award?
Did you know that if you’ve recently taken an IELTS test with us, you might be eligible to apply for the opportunity to win one of six $5000 IDP IELTS Future Awards? This award is designed to make a meaningful impact on your journey by providing financial support to help you take the next big step toward your future ambitions.
Our IELTS Community expert Linda Alley explains who can apply:
“To be considered for one of the 2026 awards, you need to meet the following requirements: 1. Be 18 years or older 2. Be living in these countries or territories: Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nepal, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Taiwan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Nigeria or Mexico. 3. Book an in-centre IELTS test (either Academic or General Training) with IDP in one of the countries/territories on the list above and get your IELTS results between 1 April 2025 to 18 September 2026. You can find all the details on how to apply on our website .”
Applications close on 2 October 2026.
What is the IELTS Community by IDP?
IELTS Community by IDP is an online platform that gives you free access to trusted answers from IDP IELTS experts.
Our FAQ library is regularly updated based on real questions from IELTS test takers from around the world. From test preparation to understanding scores, our community experts provide guidance on every aspect of IELTS.
Browse topics that interest you or use the search function to quickly find the answers you're looking for.
How our community can help you with your IELTS journey
Getting started: Discover which IELTS test matches your needs and how IELTS compares with other English tests.
Preparing for IELTS: Explore answers to frequently asked questions about the test format, marking criteria and question types.
Test day: Learn exactly what to bring, what to expect during your test, and how to access special arrangements if required.
Receiving your results: Understand your score report, learn about IELTS One Skill Retake and see how your results can help you achieve your goals.
IELTS Community gives you the information you need to prepare with confidence and make informed decisions throughout your IELTS journey.