IELTS test takers now have more flexibility with the introduction of IELTS Online. This means that you now have the possibility to take an IELTS test at a location other than at official test centres. You could even take the test in your own home, as long as you meet the technical and procedural requirements. At this stage, this is only possible for the IELTS Academic test.
Why IELTS Online?
Before booking your IELTS test, you now have an extra option when deciding where and when to take it. Selecting a date and time at an official test centres of course is one choice, but would taking the test at home be more suitable to your needs?
Convenience
Is the official test centre far from your home, or do you have to battle through a lot of traffic to reach it? IELTS Online can be a more suitable option if time and distance is an issue for you. As for the test results, IELTS Online is quick, as a validated result can be given typically within 6 days after taking your test.
Personalised Test Experience
A variety of dates and times will be presented to test candidates, from which you can choose what suits you the most – all without leaving your home. Unlike at an official test centre, you don’t have to share the test room with others when taking the Listening, Reading and Writing tests. The Speaking test is still conducted one-to-one with an accredited IELTS examiner, but via a live video call.
What you need
There are some minimum system, equipment and software requirements you need to meet to be able to access IELTS Online on your computer.
Check this list to make sure you have them ready before you book your test.
Installation and pre-system check
To run IELTS Online on your computer, you will need to download Inspera Exam Portal (IEP) on your system. Plus you’ll be required to do a pre-system check before your test.
Follow this simple step-by-step guide make sure you are ready to go.
Accessing IELTS Online on test day
Accessing IELTS Online on test day is easy. There are a few steps involved.
Speaking test journey
Launch the exam portal 15 minutes before your test start time
Select the Speaking test called IELTS Online Speaking A1 T1
Log in with your username, password and Speaking PIN Code provided in 'My Account' login area
Check your audio and video
Take a photo of yourself and your photo ID page
Join the waiting room
Take your test with the examiner
Exit the test when you finish Part 3
Listening, Reading and Writing test journey
Launch the IELTS Exam Portal at the start time of your Listening, Reading and Writing test
Log in with your user name, password and Listening, Reading and Writing PIN code
Select the Listening, Reading and Writing test called IELTS Online AC Written T1
Complete the system check and take a photo of yourself and your photo ID to confirm your identity
Meet your IELTS greeter. They will confirm your identity, advise you how to complete the room scan and go through test day rules. Then your test will begin.
When your test begins, your browser will be locked down. You won't be able to access anything other than the test platform.
During the test do not click the exit button unless you are instructed to do so
Identity verification
To confirm your identity, IELTS Online requires your photo and snap of the photo page on your identity document.
Follow the steps on how to take your photo to make sure it is accepted.
Do's and dont's
Make sure that your space meets the minimum requirements for the test and that it is:
Quiet
Private
Well-lit
Make sure you have the Inspera Exam Portal (IEP) installed on your computer before the test
Make sure your speakers and microphone are on for the entire duration of the test
Check your camera is switched on and uncovered
Have with you the passport or photo ID you booked your test with
Make sure no one else is in the room with you (including pets)
Headphones are not allowed for any part of the test
Items NOT allowed in the room during the test:
watches
electronic devices; video or voice recorder
note paper, pens or pencils
reference materials
You are only allowed a transparent bottle (without any labels) and your original identity document
Read the IELTS Online Checklist to know more about the dos and don'ts before your test day!
FAQs
Do I have to be at home to take my test?
No, you don’t need to be at home to take your test. You need a private, well-lit space where you won’t be interrupted with a stable internet connection.
Will the test be timed?
Yes, the test will be timed just like IELTS on paper and computer. Each section has a fixed duration, so you will not be able to pause the test and come back later.
Will there be IELTS Online General Training?
IELTS Online is currently available for the Academic test only. It is not accepted for immigration purposes.
Is the test suitable for immigration purposes?
No, IELTS Online is not currently accepted for immigration purposes.