IELTS FAQs

No, you are required to use pens instead of pencils when taking IELTS on paper. The staff at the test centre will provide black ink pens for you to use. No other stationery is allowed inside the test room.

IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is a test of your English skills for study, work or living abroad.

You’ll need to understand, balance and analyse views or problems to identify trends, make comparisons, and present data objectively, without giving opinions.

Examples include the University of Nottingham Ningbo (opens in a new tab) China and Monash University (opens in a new tab) Malaysia.

Whether you can transfer will depend on the policy of your chosen institution. You may need to meet certain criteria regarding your academic performance or visa regulations, among others. Always check with the institution you are considering applying to.

You’ll need to analyse questions and provide thoughtful responses that are supported with reasons and examples. Part 3 may require you to compare and contrast different viewpoints, or discuss causes, effects, advantages, and disadvantages.

You'll need to show that you can use a variety of sentence structures (simple, compound, and complex), use different tenses accurately, and use conditionals, passive voice, and relative clauses when appropriate.

Complete the labels on a diagram with information from the text.

You'll need to show that you can respond appropriately to the examiner's questions and organise your ideas logically. Use linking words and phrases to connect thoughts, and signposting words, e.g. 'Firstly', 'then', and 'finally', to help the examiner follow your response.

European universities that require you to take a test like IELTS will usually accept IELTS Academic. It is important to check the university’s website to know its requirements.

Many TNE programmes require proof of English proficiency. IELTS Academic is widely accepted as evidence that students can study and communicate effectively in an English-speaking education environment.

Most visa types from Australia, Canada, USA and the UK require proof of English proficiency via a secure English language test. The tests that are accepted differ by country and visa type, so you should always check the official government website of the country you wish to move to. IELTS is a good choice because it is accepted by all of these four immigration authorities, plus thousands of educational institutions, employers and programmes. (opens in a new tab)

Immigration authorities such as the UK Home Office often require IELTS for spouse visas. This test proves that a spouse can speak and understand English at CEFR A1 level or above.

For work permits, Canada generally accepts IELTS General Training. IELTS Academic is generally preferred for professional licensing and registration. Be sure to always check the requirements for your work visa on the government's website before booking your IELTS test.

No, IELTS does not provide visas. Visa decisions are made by government authorities.

USCIS doesn’t require IELTS or any other English proficiency test. However, companies and licensing bodies might ask for proof of English proficiency. Always check that your chosen company or organisation accepts IELTS before taking your test. 

These permits restrict you to work for one specific Canadian employer, job and, often, location. Employers usually need a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to prove no suitable Canadian or permanent resident is available for the role, though some jobs are exempt. 

Common visa pathways include:

• Temporary Foreign Worker Program   
• Global Talent Stream 
• Intra-Company Transfers
• International Mobility Program 

Large programmes such as Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters and Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions support international mobility and postgraduate study across European countries. Many doctoral programmes are fully funded, meaning students receive a salary or stipend rather than paying tuition.

Availability and eligibility vary by country and programme, and there is a lot of competition. So, it’s important to check university and national funding pages early and have a financial plan in case you don’t receive a scholarship. 

Earn prestigious international degrees from institutions like the University of London (opens in a new tab) and Central European University (CEU) without leaving Europe

Canada categorises jobs according to its National Occupational Classification (NOC) system, with categories 0-3 being skilled workers. If you work in one or more of these categories and want to get permanent residency, you may be able to apply for one of these visas: 

• Canadian Experience Class
• Federal Skilled Worker Programme
• Federal Skilled Trades Programme

Choose the correct words from the recording to complete the summary, notes, table, or flow chart.

If you are an undergraduate student on an Australian student visa (subclass 500), you can typically work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the academic year. If you are a post-graduate student, you can work unlimited hours if you meet certain conditions.

You need to speak clearly and pronounce individual sounds accurately. You’ll also need to be able to use the correct word and sentence stress and employ natural intonation patterns to convey meaning. Our examiners are trained to understand a diverse range of accents.

Many European countries (for example, France, Germany, the Netherlands or Sweden) offer government schemes for international students, often covering tuition fees, living costs or both.

The Government of Canada funds several scholarships for international students, including the Study in Canada programme and the Emerging Leaders in the Americas Program. Both aim to attract the best international talent to Canada from specific countries. Local governments may also offer programmes, like the Ontario Trillium Scholarship, created to attract high achievers to the region. ​​
 

To confirm countries accepting 5.5 IELTS for nurses, check with national nursing councils or immigration websites. IELTS requirements for NHS nurses may be higher than in other countries, though most countries prefer a higher IELTS score than 5.5.

You can take your IELTS test on computer or on paper at one of our official test centres. Availability of different modes is dependent on your location.

IELTS on computer: Take all test sections except Speaking on a computer at a test venue.

IELTS on paper: Handwrite all sections - except Speaking - in a booklet at a test venue.

In some countries and territories, you can take IELTS Online at home with the right equipment. This option is not available for IELTS for UKVI tests. Go to our IELTS online page to find out where this test is available.

Take a free practice IELTS test (opens in a new tab) or use an approved English language assessment tool. Your results will indicate if you have the necessary English level to study, work or apply for a visa to Australia.

You can assess your English level using our free practice tests (opens in a new tab) for IELTS Academic or IELTS General Training. We also offer lots of free materials (opens in a new tab) and resources to help you study and prepare.

Use official IELTS practice materials (opens in a new tab) or other tests to assess your English level. Your results will show whether you meet the language requirements for universities or work purposes in the USA. 

Once your test score is ready, you’ll be able to find it on the Test Taker Portal. It takes 1-5 days to get your score, but you will usually receive it within 2 days.

You’ll receive an IELTS for UKVI Life Skills Test Report Form (TRF) with your result – PASS or FAIL.

We use strict security measures and standardised procedures to ensure test integrity and fairness.
[OPT] For IELTS Online, the examiner or remote proctor will ask you to show them your room, desk and equipment with your mobile device.

The IELTS test takes about 2 hours and 45 mins: Listening (30 minutes), Reading (60 minutes), Writing (60 minutes) and Speaking (11-14 minutes). If you take IELTS on paper, you will have an additional 10 minutes at the end of the Listening section to transfer your answers from the question booklet to the answer sheet.

Decide if the statements agree with the information in the text by choosing the answer from ‘True,’ ‘False,’ or ‘Not given.’

Decide if the statements agree with the writer’s views by choosing from the options ‘Yes,’ ‘No,’ or ‘Not given.’

You will take the Listening, Reading and Writing sections of the test on the same day with no breaks between the test sections. You will take your Speaking test either 1) on the same day, 2) within 7 days before or after the other test sections. The date of your Speaking test will depend on your local test centre and arrangements.

If you take IELTS Online, your Speaking test will usually be before your Listening, Reading and Writing, either on the same day or a different day.

Scholarships in the USA are in high demand, with thousands of applicants for each one. You will need to research your field and destination to find out what’s available and what you are eligible for. Make sure you also have a realistic financial plan, in case you can’t get a scholarship. It is also worth researching scholarship opportunities from the government in your home country.

Your educational institution may organise internships or work placements so you can apply the skills and knowledge you gained in the classroom. Companies in Australia may also offer internships directly to students or graduates, helping to open doors in their industry. 

Yes. Degrees awarded through accredited branch campuses or official partnerships are typically awarded by the home institution and recognised accordingly.

Both IELTS and TOEFL are widely accepted in the USA.  However, TOEFL only offers an academic test, while IELTS also offers General Training, which may be preferred by employers.

Yes, IELTS General Training is accepted for Express Entry applications.

The same questions are used for IELTS on computer and IELTS on paper, so one is not easier than the other. However, IELTS on computer offers additional benefits compared to IELTS on paper, including Faster Results, the option to retake one skill, and a wider choice of test dates and locations.

Yes, Canadian universities often require you to submit language proficiency test scores through providers like IELTS. The specific score and test type can vary by institution and visa type, so always check individual universities’ and official government websites (opens in a new tab).

Volunteering is a great way to build skills and gain practical experience while supporting causes you care about. The Study Australia website lists volunteering opportunities by state, helping you find a placement that suits you.

British citizenship

• Minimum CEFR level required: B1
• Components: Listening and Speaking
• Test and minimum scores required: IELTS for UKVI Life Skills B1 – Pass

Visit GOV.UK: British citizenship overview (opens in a new tab) for more information.

Family route

• Indefinite leave to remain (UK family)
• Minimum CEFR level required: A1
• Components: Listening and Speaking
• Test and minimum scores required: IELTS for UKVI Life Skills A1 – Pass

Visit GOV.UK: Indefinite leave to remain (UK family) overview (opens in a new tab) for more information.

Family visa

• Minimum CEFR level required: A2
• Components: Listening and Speaking
• Test and minimum scores required: IELTS for UKVI Life Skills A2 – Pass

Visit GOV.UK: Family visa (extension) overview (opens in a new tab) for more information.

Indefinite leave to remain

• Minimum CEFR level required: B1
• Components: Listening and Speaking
• Test and minimum scores required: IELTS for UKVI Life Skills B1 – Pass

Visit GOV.UK: Indefinite leave to remain overview (opens in a new tab) for more information.

You will need to manage how much time you spend on each task, giving yourself enough time to do both well. Save time to transfer your answers to your answer sheet and to check your responses for mistakes at the end.

Don’t exceed 20% over the recommended minimum word count. You want to write enough to showcase your skills, but don’t include irrelevant information that doesn’t address the question.

Match a set of statements with a list of options. 

Match the headings to the section they summarise.

Find specific information in the text and answer with the section label: ‘A,’ ‘B,’ ‘C,’ or ‘D.’

Complete sentences with the most appropriate ending. 

Some programmes reward good grades, talent or achievements. For example, the Stamps Scholarship helps exceptional students at partner universities across the USA develop leadership skills. The Jefferson Scholars Program at the University of Virginia also supports outstanding undergraduate students to pursue their passions and develop their talents.

Heriot-Watt University (opens in a new tab) Dubai and Middlesex University (opens in a new tab) Dubai offer globally recognised qualifications locally.

You will hear an extract from a Part 1 recording in which two people are discussing a guide to a library.

For each question, click on the correct answers.

Listening Sample task Multiple Choice (more than one answer) (opens in a new tab)

Listening Sample task Multiple Choice (more than one answer) Answer Key (PDF 23 KB - 1 page) (opens in a new tab)

Listening Sample task Multiple Choice (more than one answer) Recording Transcript (PDF 78 KB - 1 page) (opens in a new tab)

Needs-based scholarships exist to cover tuition or living costs. Examples include Cornell University’s financial aid programme for international students. Also, Harvard’s Griffin Financial Aid Office offers the opportunity to study at this Ivy League university regardless of ability to pay.

Institutions like the University of Essex (opens in a new tab) Online and the University of London’s International (opens in a new tab)Programmes offer online and blended learning options.

These permits let you work for nearly any employer in Canada (except in certain prohibited sectors), without needing a job offer or LMIA upfront. 

Common categories include:

• International Experience Canada
• Post-Graduation Work Permit

Complete the labels on a visual with information from the recording.

In Task 2, you will need to present a clear position, develop your arguments fully, and stay relevant to the topic throughout. The task may involve comparing different views, discussing advantages and disadvantages, or proposing solutions to a problem. Support your position with examples.

Private organisations and foundations also offer international students the chance to study in Canada. For example, Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships allow international PhD students to pursue research and academic goals in specific fields of interest.

Certain Canadian provinces and territories run their own programmes to attract business owners or skilled and semi-skilled workers. See the Canadian government (opens in a new tab) website to find out which skills are in demand and where. 

Other visas are available, and information can change. Always check the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website before applying.

Fill a gap in a sentence by choosing a word or phrase from the text.

Write your answers to the questions about the text. 

Write your answers to the questions using information from the recording. 

You should take IELTS Academic as it assesses the language skills needed for an academic environment and is the most commonly accepted version of IELTS for branch campuses abroad and other forms of TNE. However, always check the university admissions requirements before you book your test.

You’ll need to be able to speak naturally without excessive hesitation or long pauses. You also need to give complete answers rather than brief responses. In Part 3, this will involve developing ideas and justifying opinions or beliefs.

You’ll need to structure your responses to include an introduction, a body and a conclusion, showing that you can organise ideas logically. Use clear paragraphs, logical progression and a range of linking words to aid coherence.

Below degree level:

• Minimum CEFR level required: B1
• Components: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking
• Test and minimum scores required: IELTS for UKVI – must achieve a minimum of 4.0 in each of the four components
   

Visit GOV.UK: Student visa overview (opens in a new tab) for more information.
 

Degree level or above:

• Minimum CEFR level required: Equivalent to B2
• Components: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking
• Test and minimum scores required: IELTS or IELTS for UKVI – must achieve a minimum of 5.5 in each of the four components
   

Visit GOV.UK: Student visa overview (opens in a new tab) for more information.

You’ll need to be able to write in English using a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures. Include an overview sentence on IELTS Academic Task 1 that summarises the main trend or feature of the visual.

Choose the correct words from the text to complete the summary, notes, table, or flow chart.

Most European universities provide merit-based, need-based or subject-specific scholarships for non-EU students, particularly at master’s and PhD levels. These typically cover all or part of your tuition fees.

Many Canadian universities offer scholarships for international students, ranging from a few thousand dollars to full tuition costs. Examples include the University of Toronto’s Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship, which recognises outstanding academic achievement, creativity and leadership potential. ​

You’ll need to be able to use a wide range of words for different contexts, use collocations correctly and adapt your vocabulary to formal and informal situations. Using less common vocabulary and idiomatic expressions appropriately will help you get a good score.

As IELTS is an international test, you will hear a variety of accents from different English-speaking countries, like the UK, USA, Australia, Ireland or New Zealand.

The accent you hear in the Speaking test will depend on your examiner’s nationality and where you take the test. You may hear an accent from an English-speaking country, like the UK, USA, Australia, Ireland or New Zealand. However, non-native speakers can also be IELTS examiners if they have a high level of English, so you may hear an accent from another country. 

A1 spouse visa test questions in IELTS Life Skills focus on simple speaking and listening tasks, such as introducing yourself, asking basic questions and discussing everyday situations.

The British Council offers IELTS Academic (opens in a new tab), IELTS General Training (opens in a new tab), IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) (opens in a new tab) and IELTS for UKVI Life Skills (opens in a new tab). See Which test should I take? (opens in a new tab) to learn which test is right for your purposes. 

Only water in a transparent bottle without any label is allowed in the test room. You must leave everything else outside in an area designated by the supervisor. Mobile phones, pagers and electronic devices of any kind must be switched off and placed with your personal belongings  If you keep your electronic device with you or do not switch it off, you will be disqualified. Personal watches and stationery, including pencils, are also prohibited from the test room.

Bring your identification document that you used to register for the test (passport or national ID), and any other required documents specified in your registration confirmation. You will need these to access the test room.

Australia generally requires an English test like IELTS for visa applications. For detailed information on which visa categories IELTS helps with, visit the official Australian Immigration website (opens in a new tab).

If you fail the test, you cannot use the result for your visa application. You'll need to retake the test and pay the test fee again until you get a pass. We recommend that you use our expert preparation resources (opens in a new tab) to prepare for retaking your test.

IELTS score requirements vary by institution and study level, but typically range from 5.0 to 7.0 overall. However, some programmes may require higher scores. Always check IELTS for local campuses of universities abroad requirements directly with your chosen institution.

US working visas do not require IELTS, but licensing bodies and employers usually require at least 6.5-7 out of 9. Be sure to check with the relevant authority for up-to-date information. 

Every university is different, but most universities will require an IELTS band score between 5.5 and 7.0.

The IELTS score you need will depend on which country you are planning to migrate to, and visa you are applying for. Some may require IELTS C1 level, while others may accept IELTS B2 level or A1 for IELTS for UKVI Life Skills. Always check the official government website of the country you plan to migrate to.

For most Canada Express Entry programmes, you’ll need to achieve a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score of 5-7, depending on your role. The IELTS equivalent of this is 4-6, depending on the test section.

The IELTS score you need to register as a nurse in Canada depends on the province you want to work in and the professional body you need to register with. However, you should aim for an IELTS Academic score of 6-8.

IELTS satisfies skilled worker visa requirements for English proficiency in numerous countries, including the UK, Australia, Canada and New Zealand. The score you need depends on the country you apply to and the visa category. Always check official government websites for the most up-to-date information.

IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training are both widely accepted by employers across the USA. 

Visa requirements vary by country and visa type. That means where you want to go and whether you want to work, study or join family members. For most English-speaking countries, the required English Exams for abroad scores range between IELTS Band Score 4 to 7.5.

The IELTS test assesses four key language skills: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking.

IELTS Listening: This component tests how well you understand spoken English.

IELTS Reading: This component assesses your English reading skills.

IELTS Writing: This component assesses how well you can write in English.

IELTS Speaking: This component tests your spoken English via a live conversation with an official IELTS examiner.

For more detail visit our How does the IELTS format work page.

Minimum scores vary by academic institution and programme. Typically, undergraduate degrees require a minimum of 5.5-6.5. You may need higher for post-graduate courses. Be sure to check official guidelines on the Home Office website (opens in a new tab).

Transnational education (TNE) allows students to earn a qualification from a university in one country while studying in another country. This includes branch campuses, joint or dual degrees, franchise partnerships and online or blended programmes.

For assistance, report any technical issues to the test centre staff immediately.

IELTS for UKVI A1 or B1 tests are available at hundreds of UK Home Office-approved locations around the world. The IELTS for UKVI Life Skills A2 test can only be taken in the UK.

Your test may be at a British Council test centre or at one of our hundreds of partner sites around the world.

Visit our IELTS booking portal to check availability at your local test centre.

IELTS General Training (opens in a new tab) is the best English test for working abroad. Choose IELTS Academic (opens in a new tab) if you want to study abroad rather than work. 

If you're planning to apply to live in the UK via some visa types, Indefinite leave to remain or British citizenship, you'll need to take an IELTS for UKVI Life Skills test.

To apply for an International Sportsperson or Representative of an Overseas Business visa, or for the UK Family route for Indefinite leave to remain, you’ll need to take the IELTS for Life Skills A1 test.

To apply for an extension to a Family visa, you’ll need to take the IELTS for Life Skills A2 test, which can only be taken in the UK.

To apply for British citizenship or Indefinite leave to remain, you’ll need to take the IELTS for Life Skills B1 test.

Always check the UK’s official government website to check which test you should take before booking.

Nurses usually need IELTS Academic with an overall score of 6.5–7, depending on the state and licensing board. 

There is no official language proficiency requirement for US visas, but many academic institutions will require you to submit test scores before accepting you. The band score can vary, but typically ranges from 6.0 to 7.0+, depending on the programme and university.

Many European universities will accept IELTS Academic, particularly if they’re offering courses taught only in English. 

If you're planning to study at a university that teaches its courses in English, or plan to make a professional registration in an English-speaking country, you'll need to take IELTS Academic test.

If you're planning to work or train in an English-speaking country, you'll need to take the IELTS General Training test. You will need to take this test to migrate to Australia, Canada, New Zealand or the UK.

If you're planning to apply for a UK visa or study a course below degree level in the UK, you'll need to take an IELTS for UKVI test. 

Always check official government or institutions' websites to find out which test you should take before booking.

Many global universities have overseas campuses, such as the University of Nottingham Ningbo China, Monash University Malaysia and Middlesex University Dubai. These offer students the opportunity to gain international qualifications without leaving home.

The IELTS test is used to study or work abroad, particularly in countries like Australia, Canada and the US. 

IELTS for UKVI (opens in a new tab) is necessary to apply for a UK visa. IELTS for UKVI Academic and General Training tests have exactly the same content and format as the standard IELTS tests, but they are taken it at an official IELTS for UKVI test centre where there are additional security protocols. 

Health and Care Worker visa

• Minimum CEFR level required: B1
• Components: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking
• Test and minimum scores required: IELTS for UKVI – must achieve a minimum of 4.0 in each of the four components

Visit GOV.UK: Health and Care Worker visa overview (opens in a new tab) for more information.

Innovator Founder visa

• Minimum CEFR level required: B2
• Components: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking
• Test and minimum scores required: IELTS for UKVI – must achieve a minimum of 5.5 in each of the four components

Visit GOV.UK: Innovator Founder visa overview (opens in a new tab) for more information.

International Sportsperson visa

• Minimum CEFR level required: A1
• Components: Listening and Speaking
• Test and minimum scores required: IELTS for UKVI Life Skills A1 – Pass

Visit GOV.UK: International Sportsperson visa overview (opens in a new tab) for more information.
 

Minister of Religion visa (T2)

• Minimum CEFR level required: B2
• Components: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking
• Test and minimum scores required: IELTS for UKVI – must achieve a minimum of 5.5 in each of the four components
   

Visit GOV.UK: Minister of Religion visa (T2) overview (opens in a new tab) for more information.
 

Representative of an Overseas Business visa

• Minimum CEFR level required: A1
• Components: Listening and Speaking
• Test and minimum scores required: IELTS for UKVI Life Skills A1 – Pass
   

Visit GOV.UK: Representative of an Overseas Business visa overview (opens in a new tab) for more information.
 

Skilled Worker visa

• Minimum CEFR level required: B1
• Components: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking
• Test and minimum scores required: IELTS for UKVI – must achieve a minimum score of 4.0 in each of the four components
   

Visit GOV.UK: Skilled Worker visa overview (opens in a new tab) for more information.

You can reschedule your IELTS test within the terms and conditions provided by the British Council. Find out more about the IELTS test rescheduling policy here.

Yes, you can take IELTS as many times as you need, subject to a fee each time.

You can find available test dates and locations in the British Council IELTS booking portal.

You can register online via the British Council’s IELTS booking portal. To register, you will need a valid passport or national identity card.

The IELTS exam fee varies by location and test type. Please choose your test type and location in the booking portal to see the fee for your selection.

You may need to pay a penalty depending on the amount of notice you give. Read our Cancellations and Refunds policy for more information.

Assistive technology is specialist equipment that can give you access to standard technology (a PC or laptop) or enable you to read, write, speak or listen.

Assistive technology can only be used by the test taker and not by someone acting on your behalf. You must be proficient in the use of the equipment and any relevant programmes or software. Operator manuals cannot be used during the test.

These materials are suitable for blind test takers who can read Braille.  A modified Speaking Test booklet is available with test taker cards in Braille or enlarged print.

You can cancel your IELTS test within the terms and conditions provided by the British Council. Find out more about the IELTS test cancellation policy here.

Please log in to the Test Taker Portal to edit your details before the test. You won't be able to make changes after you have taken the test.

No. They will only interrupt the test if something seems wrong, or if you raise your hand to tell them you have issues during the test or need to take a bathroom break.

No. All your work must be on the computer.

• Make sure your speakers, microphone and camera are on. Remember, you can’t use headphones.
• Disconnect your computer from any unnecessary devices like printers and second monitors. Cover these devices.
• Close all browser windows and programmes not needed for the test.
• Keep your phone or device nearby for the pre-test scan, with mobile data switched off. You will switch off your device after the scan.
• Make sure your face is visible. 

Yes. If you need a modified version of the IELTS test, you must provide medical evidence six weeks before your test. Your medical report should be written in English by a medical professional and dated no more than two years before your test date.

• Remember not to do these things during your test:
• Do not constantly look away from the screen.
• Do not leave your desk at any point (unless it’s to take a bathroom break, in which case you must tell the proctor first).
• Do not use keyboard shortcuts like Ctrl +C or Ctrl +V during the Listening, Reading and Writing test.

These materials are suitable for test takers with visual difficulties. Enlarged print question papers are adapted, taking out any ‘visual’ material that is not needed for answering the question, for example, frames around texts.

The standard font size in IELTS question papers is Arial 11-point font and Enlarged Print question papers are in Arial 18-point bold font.

If you need a bigger font size, you may use assistive technology (like a magnifier) to increase the text to a more comfortable size.

• Double-check your test start time, including checking any time zone differences. Please note you will not be allowed to log in to the test if you are more than 30 minutes late.
• Check the email you received and have your username, password, ID and PIN codes ready. You’ll have one PIN code for your Speaking test and another for your Listening, Reading and Writing tests.
• Make sure your passport or photo ID is the same as the one you used to book the test.

This version is for test takers who:

• have difficulty hearing recorded sound but find live, human voices accessible
• can lip-read in English
• can access the test content through a combination of hearing and lip-reading.

Instead of playing a recording, a suitable member of the test centre staff will read a script to you out loud. The member of staff will read each text twice.

If you have severe hearing difficulties you can also apply for extra time in Reading and Writing tests to process what you read.

You can access the Test Taker portal here

The proctors will only remain active for the duration of your test. Once your test is finished, both you and the proctor will exit the Inspera Integrity Browser and access to your camera will be stopped.

Refunds are returned to your original payment method. Processing times vary by country and test centre. Check your local British Council IELTS website for details.

Your new institution will only see the Test Report Form (TRF) that you request us to share, or you share yourself. 

Extra time and pauses cannot be added to the Listening test by stopping the standard test CD. However your test centre can request a modified CD from Cambridge Assessment English which plays the Listening texts twice. It will also include additional pauses for you to write your answers. Any extra time awarded will be at the test centre’s discretion and will depend on your specific needs.

Separate invigilation will be required and the use of a personal CD player is not permitted.

• Make sure you are alone in the room for the pre-test checks and the test.
• Keep all doors closed. If there are glass walls, use curtains or blinds, or add window film to ensure privacy.
• Place your computer on a desk or table and sit comfortably on a chair. You cannot take the test lying down or sitting on a sofa.
• Remove all bags, notes, pens, pencils, headphones and accessories, including wrist watches.
• Remove posters from the walls.
• Keep your water in a transparent bottle without a label.

• Launch the Inspera Integrity Browser
• Log in with your username and password
• Select your test (i.e. Speaking).
• Enter your test PIN code (remember your Speaking PIN code is different from your PIN code for Listening, Reading and Writing).
• Take a photo of yourself and the photo page of the ID you registered with.
• Join the waiting room and wait to be told when the test is starting.
• Let the examiner/proctor scan your room.

Test takers using Enlarged Print papers will normally not need to use a Scribe to write answers. A Scribe can only be used if you cannot write at all and are unable to record your answers using an enlarged answer sheet or assistive technology, e.g. typing them using a PC or a laptop.

However, if you are very severely visually impaired andwish to use a Scribe, this will be possible.  You will need to provide medical evidence to support your request which clearly states your percentage of visual difficulty.

You can request for a Scribe or Reader if you are unable to read or write.

Rules for using a Scribe:

• The Scribe must write down only what the test taker dictates.
• The test taker must dictate their answers clearly, indicating all punctuation and capital letters and the spelling of commonly misspelt or less common words.
• If the Scribe is unclear on the details of the test taker’s intended answer, they must request clarification.
• The Scribe must also ask the test taker to dictate the spelling of words which are less common, likely to cause confusion (e.g. where there is a similar but different word in the test taker’s first language), homophones. The Scribe must underline all words where the spelling has been checked in this way.
• The Scribe must not give factual help to the test taker nor offer any suggestions.
• All dictation and writing must be completed within the time specified for the test.

Rules for using a Reader: 

• A test taker using a Reader must have separate invigilation.
• A Reader should be able to read accurately and at a reasonable rate and must be familiar with the texts and task types in IELTS. 

During the test a Reader must:

• Read accurately.
• Not give factual help to the test taker, nor offer any suggestions.
• Not advise the test taker regarding which questions to do, when to move on to the next question, or the order in which the questions should be done.
• Read, as often as requested, the questions and the answers already recorded. This means that the Reader can repeat one or more of the questions after reading a section of text, or at any point upon the test taker's request.
• If asked, give information regarding time elapsed and remaining.
• If asked, give the spelling of a word which occurs in the question paper; otherwise spellings must not be given.
• Not offer the test taker any other kind of assistance, e.g. indirectly by using intonation.
   

If it’s a short break, you will get extra time to complete your test. If the connection cannot be restored, the British Council will help you organise a test retake. To avoid issues, please make sure you have a stable internet connection.

If you are absent on test day and do not tell the test centre in advance, you will lose your fee. However, if you are sick and you provide a medical certificate within two calendar days of the test, you will receive a refund minus the local administrative fee.

We can make special arrangements for test-takers with disabilities or special needs. Contact the British Council (opens in a new tab) well in advance of your test date for details.

You can take your IELTS test at one of over 1,600 locations in more than 140 countries. This may be at a British Council test centre or at one of our hundreds of partner sites around the world. Visit our booking portal to check availability at your local test centre. 

IELTS for UKVI tests must be taken at a UK Home Office-approved IELTS for UKVI location.

Your new institution will only see the Test Report Form (TRF) that you request us to share, or you share yourself. 

• BANM (opens in a new tab)
• ROOF Academic Training (opens in a new tab)

• Academia (opens in a new tab)
• CF International (opens in a new tab)
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• Futureed Corporation Ltd (opens in a new tab)
• Hexa's Education (opens in a new tab)
• ISITE (opens in a new tab)
• Lexicon (opens in a new tab)
• Mentors Education (Sylhet) (opens in a new tab)
• Mentors' Education Limited (opens in a new tab)
• Mentors Education (Moulvibazar) (opens in a new tab)
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• Beijing New Channel School (opens in a new tab)
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• Beijing New Oriental Xuncheng Network Technology,Inc. (opens in a new tab)
• Beijing Xueweigui Education and Technology Co.,Ltd. (opens in a new tab)
• Chengdu Longre English Training School (opens in a new tab)
• Chengdu New Channel English Training School (opens in a new tab)
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• Nanjing New Oriental School (opens in a new tab)
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• Shanghai New Oriental School (opens in a new tab)
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• Xi'an New Channel School (opens in a new tab)
• Xi'an New Oriental School (opens in a new tab)
• Zhan Education (opens in a new tab)
• Zhejiang Shinway School (opens in a new tab)
• Zhengzhou New Oriental (opens in a new tab)

• Akhmet Yassawi International Kazakh-Turkish University (opens in a new tab)
• Astana ITU (opens in a new tab)
• Caspian University (opens in a new tab)
• Caspian Training Group (opens in a new tab)
• Edu Stream (opens in a new tab)
• GENERATION IELTS Prep Centre
• GSC (opens in a new tab)
• Guarantee
• Interstudent Astana (opens in a new tab)
• Iqanat School
• M.Narikbayev KAZGUU University (opens in a new tab)
• MIA Kazakhstan (opens in a new tab)
• Miras University (opens in a new tab)
• New York (opens in a new tab)
• North Kazakhstan State University, named for M.Kozybaev (opens in a new tab)
• OLS (opens in a new tab)
• RTG Tilmash Kazakhstan LLP
• Scholarship (opens in a new tab)
• Smart School (opens in a new tab)
• Speaking Time (opens in a new tab)
• Top Tier (opens in a new tab)
• Turan University (opens in a new tab)

• English Key Guadalajara (opens in a new tab)
• IPN - CENLEX Unidad Santo Tomás (opens in a new tab)
• IPN - CENLEX Unidad Zacatenco (opens in a new tab)

Platinum Partner

• Orbit Medical Entrance Pvt. Ltd (OME) (opens in a new tab)

Top Association

• Educational Consultancy Association of Nepal (ECAN) (opens in a new tab)

Gold Partner

• K.I.E.C. Learning Center Pvt. Ltd (opens in a new tab)
• THE Next Education Consultancy Pvt. Lt (opens in a new tab)

• ABN Overseas Education Pvt. Ltd (opens in a new tab)
• Alpha Education Services (opens in a new tab)
• Asian Group of Colleges (opens in a new tab)
• Australian Education Counsel
• British Education and Training Systems (BETS) (opens in a new tab)
• Canadian Educare System (opens in a new tab)
• Ed-Bridge Academy of English language (opens in a new tab)
• ELC-English Language Club (opens in a new tab)
• English Council (opens in a new tab)
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• Hall Mark Education System (opens in a new tab)
• Highbrow Institute of Modern Studies (opens in a new tab)
• HR Consultant FSD (opens in a new tab)
• HR Consultants (Pvt) Ltd (opens in a new tab)
• IELTS with ASIF (opens in a new tab)
• Inam Academy of IELTS (opens in a new tab)
• International Learning Centre (Berlitz) (opens in a new tab)
• Kaplan (opens in a new tab)
• KLS IELTS (opens in a new tab)
• London Dialect Institute (opens in a new tab)
• MAKA IELTS ACADEMY (opens in a new tab)
• M.R. Consultants (opens in a new tab)
• NICON Group of Colleges (opens in a new tab)
• Orkans International Education Systems Pvt Ltd (opens in a new tab)
• PIML Education Consultants (opens in a new tab)
• Royal Vision Education Counseling (PVT) (opens in a new tab)
• SEB'S Institute (opens in a new tab)
• Sir Shirazi's Academy (opens in a new tab)
• SNOSZ Foundation (opens in a new tab)
• STEPS Institute (opens in a new tab)
• Superlinks International (opens in a new tab)
• The Ace International School System (opens in a new tab)
• The IELTS Institute Rawalpindi (opens in a new tab)
• The Linguist Institute ® (opens in a new tab)
• Times Consultant (opens in a new tab)
• UCL (United Center of Languages) (opens in a new tab)
• UK CEL Mirpur (opens in a new tab)
• UK Learning Centre Dadyal (opens in a new tab)
• Victoria IELTS College (opens in a new tab)
• Wise Home College of Modern Languages (opens in a new tab)

Gold Partners

• Australian College of Business and Technology - Colombo (opens in a new tab)
• ICBT Colombo Campus (opens in a new tab)
• Headway School of Languages (Pvt) Ltd (opens in a new tab)
• Institute of British Examinations (opens in a new tab)
• Manchester International Private Limited (opens in a new tab)
• Nations Victory Campus (opens in a new tab)

Silver Partners

• ICBT Campus Kurunegala (opens in a new tab)
• ICBT Southern Campus (opens in a new tab)
• Jeewa Education Colombo (opens in a new tab)
• P Sudarsha Kumari Vidyasekara's Centre (opens in a new tab)
• Senek Education

• Akademik Bati Dilleri (opens in a new tab)
• Bilimevi Yurtdisi Egitim Danismanligi (opens in a new tab)
• British Education Bureau - BEB (opens in a new tab)
• British Side (opens in a new tab)
• Go and Study
• GKR Yurtdisi Egitim Danismanligi (opens in a new tab)
• LTTC - Akademin Egitim Orgetim Danismanlik
• Manisa Ingiliz Kultur Dil Kursu (opens in a new tab)
• Nish Education (opens in a new tab)
• Nokta Dil (opens in a new tab)
• Pendik Ingiliz Kultur - Akilli Tahta Ozel Egitim Hizmetleri (opens in a new tab)
• Study in UK (opens in a new tab)
• Study UK (opens in a new tab)
• The Address Education (opens in a new tab)
• Universal Counselor (opens in a new tab)
• Vis Education (opens in a new tab)

• Eva Group
• Innovative centre
• RIKS Education (opens in a new tab)

You cannot pass or fail IELTS; you receive  a band score between 0-9, based on your performance. However, preparation is recommended to improve your English skills, manage time effectively, and understand the test format and assessment criteria.

Yes. When you book IELTS with the British Council, you get free access to IELTS Ready Premium (opens in a new tab), our online preparation platform including over 40 scored practice tests and other learning materials. We also offer free video tutorials (opens in a new tab) and Facebook webinar sessions (opens in a new tab).

Firstly, you need to book your IELTS test with the British Council. Once you've booked your test, you can access IELTS Ready Premium via the Test Taker Portal.

How much preparation you need to do depends on your current English level and the IELTS score you need. To find out your current score, we recommend that you take a scored practice test. For those close to their target score, you may need a few weeks to focus on familiarising yourself with the test so you are prepared for question types, test conditions and timing.

If you are over two bands from your target score, you may need to invest in further English learning and practice to improve your English skills.

Prepare for IELTS Academic by practising your English skills, learning the test format, and trying different question types. When you book with the British Council, you get free access to IELTS Ready Premium for preparation. We also offer intensive teacher-led IELTS Coach courses and a familiarisation test. If you are not ready to book your test yet, you can sign up for IELTS Ready Member and start practising for free.

Preparing in advance boosts your confidence and helps you to perform at your best on test day. We recommend that you spend time practising your English language skills, familiarising yourself with the test format and trying the different task types that you’ll come across in the test.

There are lots of excellent resources available online to help you study for the IELTS General Training test. When you book your test with the British Council, you’ll get free access to IELTS Ready Premium (opens in a new tab), our complete exam preparation toolkit.

We also offer intensive teacher-led IELTS Coach courses (opens in a new tab) and a familiarisation test (opens in a new tab). If you are not ready to book yet, you can sign up for IELTS Ready Member (opens in a new tab).

Test takers can cross out incorrect answers and re-write it inside the designated answer box. Marks are not deducted for making corrections. The test content and assessment criteria remain the same. A response which has overrun the box, will be marked.

Once your test score is ready, you’ll be able to find it on the Test Taker Portal. It takes 1-5 days to get your score if you took IELTS Academic test on Computer, but you will usually receive it in 2 days. It can take up to 14 days for your score to arrive if you took IELTS on Paper.

You’ll receive an IELTS Test Report Form (TRF) with your overall band score (between 1-9), as well as your scores for each section of the exam.

Yes, you will receive an email notification with a link to view and download your IELTS scores as an official Test Report Form (TRF) from the Test Taker Portal. Some test centres may also provide SMS alerts and an Online Results Service. 

Yes, you can request a re-mark (opens in a new tab) if you think your scores don’t accurately reflect your English skills in one or more test sections. For example, if you scored high in mock tests but low on test day. Or if a small adjustment could impact your academic, professional or migration plans.

You will pay a fee for an Enquiry in Results (re-mark), which is refunded if your score improves in any section of the test. Fees vary by test centre.

We can send up to five free copies of your paper Test Report Form (TRF) or 10 free copies of your electronic TRF (eTRF) directly to institutions and organisations within two years of your test date.

To send an eTRF, you need to select the receiving organisation in the Test Taker Portal. Alternatively, you can download your eTRF and share it yourself by post, email or via the portal. To send a paper TRF, you need to add the address of the receiving organisation in the Test Taker Portal.

If your test centre closes permanently within the two-year period since you took your test, you can request to have your results sent to recognising organisations by filling in the Additional IELTS Test Report Form. Note that there is a fee for this service. 

There is no pass or fail in IELTS. Scores are graded on the 9-band system. You will receive a score from 0-9, with 9 being the highest and 0 being 'did not attempt the test'. However, each educational institution, government or organisation sets its own minimum level of IELTS scores to meet its requirements.

IELTS uses a band scoring system to measure and report test scores consistently. You will receive individual band scores on a scale from 0 to 9 for Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. You will also receive an overall Band Score from 0 to 9. This is the average of your band scores in each test section, rounded up or down to the nearest whole or half band (e.g. 6, 6.5, 7, 7.5, etc).   

You must submit your EOR form via the Test Taker Portal within six weeks of the test date on your Test Report Form.

You will receive your re-mark result within 2-21 days after submitting your EOR request, depending on the number of test sections you request to be re-marked. If your scores change, you will receive an updated Test Report Form. Contact your test centre if you haven’t received your results after 21 days. 
Contact your test centre if you haven’t received your results after 21 days. 

Your Test Report Form (TFR) is valid for two years from the date of your IELTS test.

When you receive your results depends on which test mode you choose:

IELTS on computer: 1-5 days, but typically received within 2 days
IELTS on paper: up to 13 days
IELTS Online: 6-8 days
IELTS for UKVI Life Skills: up to 7 days

If you are having issues logging into the Test Taker portal, contact your IELTS test centre directly for support.

An IELTS remark doesn’t guarantee a higher score -  it may stay the same, but it will never go down. Your test is re-marked following strict assessment standards by a senior examiner who doesn’t know your original scores. This ensures the process is fair and impartial. 

If you want to query your results or have a section re-marked, you can submit an Enquiry on Results (EOR) request up to six weeks after your test. You can do this online through the Test Taker Portal or at the centre where you took your test. You will pay a fee to have one or more sections re-marked, but this will be refunded if your score increases in any section of the test. The outcome of your EOR may be available on the same day as your application or up to 21 days afterwards. The time depends on several factors, including the number of sections you asked us to re-mark.

There is no specific ‘passing’ score for the IELTS Academic test. Each university has its own requirements. It is important to check the score required by the programme that you are applying for entry to.

If you can’t view your results in the Test Taker Portal, contact your IELTS test centre directly.

You will receive just one copy of your Test Report Form. Replacement copies are not issued in the event of loss or damage. However, we can send up to five free copies to a recognising organisation with the two year test validity period.

You can have any or all of the test sections re-marked: Listening, Reading, Writing or Speaking.

Occasionally, IELTS results are delayed due to quality control checks. These are random checks to ensure scores are fair and accurate. Other reasons include a review of test performance if there are technical issues, discrepancies or suspicions of malpractice. In some cases, delays can also be caused by national holidays like Christmas or New Year. Contact your test centre if your results are not available during the normal timeframe for the test you took. 

Fees vary by test centre and location. You will see the fee when you log in to the Test Taker Portal.

The format, task types and question difficulty are the same as the full IELTS test. However, you may find One Skill Retake easier because you already know what to expect and will only take one part of the test.

You can take One Skill Retake if you recently took a full IELTS on computer test at a participating centre. You must book One Skill Retake within 60 days of your original test date. Check the Test Taker Portal to see if you are eligible based on your test date and location.