IELTS booking and registration in Singapore

IELTS test types and costs

How to choose the right test type for you

Selecting the correct IELTS test type to register for will depend on your future plans. Let's explore each to help you make an informed decision.

IELTS Academic

The IELTS Academic test assesses readiness to handle academic or technical language, and is designed for individuals applying for higher education or professional registration in an English-speaking environment.

IELTS General Training

IELTS General Training measures English language proficiency in a practical, everyday context, ideal for those going to English-speaking countries for secondary education or work experience.

IELTS for UKVI (Academic)

IELTS for UKVI (Academic) is specifically for those who need to prove their English language skills as part of their UK Visa and Immigration application.

IELTS for UKVI (General Training)

Similar to its Academic counterpart, IELTS for UKVI (General Training) is for visas that require a practical understanding of English for secondary education, work, or migration to the UK.

IELTS Life Skills

IELTS Life Skills is a test for those who need to prove their English speaking and listening skills at levels A1 or B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR).

Test dates for IELTS in Singapore

IELTS tests are available at IDP’s branches throughout the year, offering flexibility in test registration and booking to candidates. View the latest IELTS test date schedules for more information.

How to book Your IELTS test

You can either book your IELTS test online for convenience or visit an IDP office for in-person registration. 

IELTS booking requirements

To complete your IELTS test booking, ensure you have:

• A valid ID

A valid government-issued ID, such as an NRIC (for Singapore citizens or Permanent Residents) or passport.

• For test takers under 18

Test-takers under 18 are required to provide additional documentation showing consent from guardians.

• Payment for IELTS test registration

Payment is required to finalise your IELTS test registration. Make sure to check the current test fees and available payment methods.

What to expect after IELTS test registration

After registering for your IELTS test, you'll receive confirmation details, including your test date, time, and location.

How to prepare for the test

Preparing for the IELTS requires a strategic approach to maximise your English proficiency across all four modules: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Some ways to ensure comprehensive preparation include:

• Familiarising yourself with the test formats for all modules.

• Consistently practising with sample tests and questions.

• Exposing yourself to a variety of media to build good English proficiency habits .

• Stimulating exam conditions by booking full-length mock tests to understand your areas for improvement as well as get you used to the test duration.

• Seeking feedback from other peers.

• Taking time to recharge between revision sessions so you’re well-rested, well-prepared, calm, and focused on test day. Staying calm is key so you won’t overthink during your IELTS test , which may lead to careless mistakes that affect your band score.

Test day information

The test day experience can vary slightly between the IELTS on Computer and IELTS on Paper, but general procedures remain the same:

• Arrival: Arrive at the test centre early. Late arrivals may not be allowed to take the test.

• Identification: Bring the same valid ID you used for test registration (i.e. your passport or NRIC).

• Storing personal items: Note that personal items, including mobile phones and watches, are not allowed in the test room. Storage facilities will be provided, but it's best to bring only what you need in a clear, see-through stationery case.

• IELTS Listening, Reading, and Writing tests: These are completed in one sitting without any breaks.

• IELTS Speaking test: This may be scheduled on the same day as your other tests or on a different day, within a week before or after your other test components.

Familiarise yourself with the detailed test procedures ahead of time to reduce any test-day anxiety and ensure a smooth experience.

After your test

Once you've completed your registered IELTS test, the anticipation for results begins. Here's what you need to know about accessing your scores:

• Results timeline: For the paper-based test, results are released 13 days post-test. For IELTS on Computer, results are available between three to five days after the test date.

• Accessing your results: You will receive an email notification once your test results are available. You can then view your scores online through the test centre's website where you registered.

• Understanding your score: IELTS results are reported on a 9-band scale. Each component of the test (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking) receives a band score, which is then averaged for your overall band score.

• Using your IELTS score: Your IELTS score can open doors to international education, professional opportunities, and visa applications for English-speaking countries. Make sure to understand the score requirements for your specific goals and plan accordingly.

Achieving a successful IELTS score is the culmination of careful preparation, understanding the test structure, and knowing what to expect both on the test day and afterwards. With the right approach, you can confidently use your IELTS results as a stepping stone to global opportunities.