At IDP IELTS, your safety and comfort on test day are our top priorities. To support our commitment to child protection, we require a chaperone for all test-takers under 18 specifically for the one-on-one Speaking test.
This article will help you understand this optional service and clarify what is required. Please note that a parent or guardian must sign the "Chaperone/Guardian Consent Form" , to acknowledge this requirement, so it's important to understand how it works before completing it.
What Is a Chaperone?
A chaperone is an accredited IDP invigilator assigned to be present for a candidate’s welfare during their one-on-one Speaking test. It's important to distinguish between a guardian and a chaperone:
Guardian: The parent or legal guardian who signs the consent form.
Chaperone: An on-site invigilator assigned by IDP for the Speaking test portion of your day.
The chaperone’s role is strictly observational to ensure a safe and appropriate testing environment. They will not speak to you, make eye contact, or communicate with the examiner. Their presence is silent and neutral.
A Mandatory Safety Requirement for Minors
We want to be clear: having a chaperone present for your Speaking test is mandatory for all candidates under 18. Consider these points:
The chaperone service is a standard safety protocol to ensure the protection of both the candidate and the examiner.
For the Listening, Reading, and Writing sections, you will be in a main test hall with other candidates and standard invigilators. A special chaperone is not part of these sections.
How to Fill & Submit the Consent Form
Starting July 30, 2026, minor test takers registering for IELTS with IDP will no longer need to bring a paper consent form to the test centre on test day. Learn about the new digital consent form here. For Test taker who booked before July 30, 2026 still need to bring the physical form.
Download the "Chaperone/Guardian Consent Form.” This is available on the IDP IELTS Thailand website.
Provide an Original Signature. Your parent/guardian must sign the form with an ink signature.
Bring the Physical Form. You must bring the original, completed consent form to the test-centre reception on test day. Digital copies will be rejected.
ID Check. Your ID will be checked upon arrival as per standard procedure.
Pro-Tip: Before downloading, ensure your parent or guardian understands that a chaperone is required by IDP policy for all minors.
How to fill a consent form
What to Expect on Test Day
Timeline | Candidate | Chaperone (Invigilator Role) |
|---|---|---|
Arrival | Present your ID & the consent form at reception. | Registers with IDP staff and receives an invigilator badge. |
Listening/Reading/Writing | Focus on your test in the main test room. | The chaperone is not present for these sessions. |
Speaking Test | You enter the interview room with the examiner. | Stays in the room silently, maintaining full neutrality. |
Departure | Collect your belongings and sign out. | Escorts you to the venue exit. |
