Is the Video Call Speaking (VCS) test easier or harder than the Face-to-Face test?

Neither. The test is exactly the same in content, difficulty, and scoring. The only difference is the delivery method. Both tests are marked by certified examiners using the same strict criteria.

What if there is a technical problem, like a bad connection?

The VCS test uses a secure system with a high-speed connection to prevent issues like lag. However, if any problem occurs, an invigilator is on-site and ready to assist immediately.

Will the examiner be able to hear me clearly through the headset?

Yes. High-quality headsets are used to ensure crystal-clear sound and to eliminate background noise, allowing both you and the examiner to hear each other perfectly.

Can I take the VCS test from my home?

No. The Video Call Speaking test must be taken in a private room at an official IDP IELTS test center to ensure security and test integrity.

How can I make sure I get the Face-to-Face (or Video Call) format I want?

The most reliable way to get your preferred format is to contact IDP IELTS Thailand directly before you book your test. While the format is generally tied to the location (e.g., central Bangkok is often F2F, other provinces are often VCS), this can sometimes change. By calling ahead and confirming the format for your specific date and location, you can book with confidence.

IELTS Speaking Test Formats: Face-to-Face (F2F) vs. Video Call (VCS) Thailand

The IELTS Speaking test is always a one-on-one conversation with a certified examiner. At IDP, this is conducted in one of two formats: Face-to-Face (F2F) or Video Call Speaking (VCS). Both formats are identical in terms of content, timing, scoring, and structure. The only difference is the medium used to connect you with the examiner.

Please note: You cannot choose the Speaking test format directly. Instead, the format depends on the test center you select. Some centers offer only one format, while others may switch between F2F and VCS depending on availability. If you have a preference, please refer to the table below or contact our customer service team for up-to-date information on test format availability at your chosen location.

Face-to-Face vs. Video Call Speaking: At a Glance

While the test content, scoring, and timing are identical, the experience and environment have some key differences. Here’s a quick comparison to help you know what to expect.

Face-to-Face (F2F)

Examiner is in the room with you
Conducted in a quiet, private test room
Uses a physical cue card for Part 2
Traditional in-person conversation
ID checked by examiner before test
Audio recorded for review

Video Call Speaking (VCS)

Examiner connects via live video call
Held in a private room with computer setup
Part 2 topic appears on the screen
Real-time video conversation
ID checked by invigilator before test
Video call is recorded for review

Face-to-Face (F2F) Speaking Test

This is the traditional format where you and the examiner are physically in the same room. You will be in a quiet, private room with only the IELTS examiner.

The Process:

Arrival & ID Check: You will arrive at the test center, and your identity will be verified by the examiner at the start of the test.
The Conversation: The test proceeds as a natural conversation. The examiner will ask you questions for all three parts of the test.
Part 2 Topic: For Part 2, the examiner will hand you a physical cue card with the topic and give you a pen and paper to make notes.
Recording: The entire session is recorded using an audio device for quality and integrity purposes.

Video Call Speaking (VCS) Test

For Video Call Speaking (VCS), an IELTS invigilator will guide you to a private test room equipped with a computer, high-definition camera, microphone, and headphones. You will be alone in the room during the test.

The Process:

Arrival & Set-up: An IELTS invigilator will check your ID and lead you to the room. They will set up the computer and equipment for you do not need any technical skills.
Connecting with the Examiner: Once you are comfortable with the noise-canceling headset, the video call will begin. You will see the examiner on the screen, and they will see you, allowing for a real-time, face-to-face conversation.
Part 2 Topic: For Part 2, the topic will be displayed on the screen. You will have a pen and paper to prepare your notes, just as in the face-to-face test.
Recording: The entire video call is recorded for security and integrity.

List of Test Centres and Speaking Test Formats

While you can choose your test location, the Speaking test format (Face-to-Face or Video Call) is generally determined by the test centre.

As a general guide, centres in central Bangkok are often Face-to-Face, while centres in other provinces are typically Video Call Speaking. However, this can vary. If you have a strong preference, it is highly recommended that you contact IDP IELTS Thailand to confirm the format for your specific test date and location before booking.

IDP IELTS Test Centres & Speaking Formats

Province	Test Centre Name	Speaking Type
Bangkok	IDP IELTS Silom	Face-to-Face (F2F)
Bangkok	AUA Language Center, Rajdamri	Face-to-Face (F2F)
Bangkok	English Parks, Phaya Thai	Face-to-Face (F2F)
Bangkok	Ignite by OnDemand, MBK Tower	Face-to-Face (F2F)
Bangkok	International House, Asok	Face-to-Face (F2F)
Bangkok	InterPass Institute, Siam	Face-to-Face (F2F)
Bangkok	New Cambridge Institute, Silom	Face-to-Face (F2F)
Bangkok	KroJeab IELTS (PromptMind), Thonburi	Face-to-Face (F2F)
Pathum Thani	New Education World, Rangsit	F2F / VCS (Please check before booking)
Chiang Mai	I-Genius Language Institute, Chiang Mai	Face-to-Face (F2F)
Chiang Mai	Hui Zhong Language School	Video Call Speaking (VCS)
Chiang Mai	Regent School of English	Video Call Speaking (VCS)
Chiang Rai	The Learning Centre (TLC)	Video Call Speaking (VCS)
Pattaya	MEE FAH Pattaya Diving and Language School	Video Call Speaking (VCS)
Chumphon	IELTS Langsuan - Chumphon	Video Call Speaking (VCS)
Hat Yai (Songkhla)	C-Bright Language School	Video Call Speaking (VCS)
Phuket	Billion Brilliant Education	Video Call Speaking (VCS)
Phuket	Phuket PALS	Video Call Speaking (VCS)
Khon Kaen	Greater Good Education	Video Call Speaking (VCS)
Nakhon Ratchasima	Well-Balanced English	Video Call Speaking (VCS)
Ubon Ratchathani	LEAD Language Centre	Video Call Speaking (VCS)
Udon Thani	E-sarn Technological College	Video Call Speaking (VCS)