IELTS Online FAQs

What is IELTS Online?  

IELTS Online is the new way to take the IELTS Academic test. You can now choose to take the world’s leading English language test at home or in a private location with a stable internet connection. 

It has the same test format and duration as IELTS Academic taken in a test centre, but IELTS Online gives you the opportunity to choose where you want to take the test from. 

The Speaking test is conducted online via video call with an IELTS Examiner.

It uses the same IELTS multi-layered security processes in pre-test, test day and post-test operations. Recognising Organisations (ROs) will use the same online verification system as the one used to verify in-centre results. 

Is IELTS Online the same as IELTS on paper and on computer?  

The test format, scoring, and timing of the test is the same as IELTS Academic on paper and computer taken in a test centre. 

The Listening, Reading, and Writing tests are delivered in the same way as IELTS on computer. 

The Speaking test is conducted online via video call with an IELTS Examiner.

Is the Speaking test face-to-face? 

Yes, at IELTS we believe face-to-face conversational English is important, therefore the IELTS Online Speaking test is conducted online via video call with a certified IELTS Examiner. 

Do I have to be at home to take my test?  

No, you do not need to be at home to take your test. You need a private, well-lit space where you will not be interrupted for the duration of the test, and a stable internet connection.  The test cannot be taken in a public place shared with other people, e.g. library, café, open-plan office.

Who accepts IELTS Online test scores? 

We advise you to check with your chosen institution(s) directly before booking IELTS Online. 

Is there a minimum age requirement for IELTS Online?  

IELTS Online is currently available to test takers aged 18 and above.  

Will the test be timed?  

Yes, the test will be timed the same as IELTS on paper and computer. Each section has a fixed duration, so you will not be able to pause the test and go back to it later. 

How long is the IELTS Online test? 

IELTS Online has the same format as IELTS Academic in a test centre. Listening is 30 minutes, followed by Reading for 60 minutes and then Writing for 60 minutes. The Speaking test is usually held before the Listening, Reading and Writing tests and lasts for 11–14 minutes.

Will there be IELTS Online General Training?  

IELTS Online is currently only available for the Academic test. It is not accepted for immigration purposes.

Is the test suitable for immigration purposes?  

No, IELTS Online is not currently accepted for immigration purposes.  

What test platform does IELTS Online use?  

IELTS Online runs on the Inspera Integrity Browser. After booking your test, you will be emailed a link to download the portal. We recommend you do this at least one day before your test to carry out pre-test system checks.

Does IELTS Online use live remote proctoring?  

Yes, IELTS Online uses human and artificial intelligence (AI) proctoring to monitor your test.

What is a remote proctor? 

This is an IELTS invigilator who will monitor your Listening, Reading, and Writing tests online, just as they would if you took your test in a test centre.

Why do we need remote proctors? 

Having remote proctors ensures IELTS Online maintains the high security standards set by IELTS and trusted by recognising organisations around the world.

What type of computer/laptop do I need?  

To take IELTS Online you must have a laptop or desktop computer with one screen only; multiple screens are not allowed.

To check if your laptop/computer is suitable, please read the IELTS Online equipment, technical and environment requirements. 

Can I take the test on a mobile or tablet?   

No, you cannot take IELTS Online using a mobile phone, tablet or Chromebook.

Do I need headphones?  

No, headphones are not permitted. For more information, please read the IELTS Online equipment, technical and environment requirements. 

Do I need a microphone and speakers?  

Yes, you need a microphone and speakers to take IELTS Online. For more information, please read the IELTS Online equipment, technical and environment requirements.

What internet speed do I need? 

For more information, please read the IELTS Online equipment, technical and environment requirements. 

What type of environment do I need?  

To take IELTS Online you need:  

• a quiet, private and well-lit space with a desk 
• a stable internet connection  
• a laptop or desktop computer  
• a microphone and speakers (headphones not allowed)  
• a camera (internal or external)
• a passport 
• a mobile phone or tablet with a camera for use during the room scan at check-in only.

For more information, please read the IELTS Online equipment, technical and environment requirements. 

Should I use LAN connection or Wi-Fi?  

Provided the connection is stable, you can use either a LAN connection or Wi-Fi.

How do I book my IELTS Online test? 

IELTS Online is easy to book – just visit our website. Book now

How far in advance can I book an IELTS Online test?  

Please book your IELTS Online test at least 48 hours in advance of your planned test date.

How much does IELTS Online cost? 

Please visit the IELTS Online booking page to see the price.

Which countries is IELTS Online available in? 

IELTS Online is being rolled out around the world in 2024. For the latest updates, please keep checking our website. 

What ID do I need to book IELTS Online?  

You will need a valid passport to book and to take IELTS Online. You will need to have this with you during your test too.

Will I be able to practise the test before I decide to take IELTS Online? 

You can watch IELTS Online tutorials on our YouTube channel.

What preparation resources are available for IELTS Online? 

To help familiarise yourself with the IELTS Online test, we have created the following preparation resources:

• IELTS Online familiarisation test
• IELTS Online tutorial videos
• IELTS Online Speaking test video.

You can also use the IELTS practice materials already available on our website. 

Can I use the existing IELTS Academic preparation materials for IELTS Online? 

Yes, IELTS Online is the same test as IELTS Academic, which means that you can use the same practice materials already available on our website.

Can I take notes during my test?  

You cannot take notes using pen and paper during your test, however, you can make notes on screen during your Listening, Reading and Writing tests. 

To find out about the key features of the test platform, including how to make notes, watch our IELTS Online tutorial videos. 

If I make a mistake during my test, can I go back and change my answers?  

Yes, if you have time left during a test section, then you can go back and change your answers in that same test section. 

To find out about the key features of the test platform, including how to flag a question, watch our IELTS Online tutorial videos. 

Will I be able to take a break during my test?  

You are allowed one 5-minute bathroom break during your Listening, Reading and Writing tests. 

This must be taken in between tests, e.g. between the end of the Listening test and the start of the Reading test.

To take a bathroom break, raise your hand and wait for the proctor to call you. Do not leave your desk without the permission of the proctor.

Will I be able to speak to the proctor? 

Yes, you can contact the proctor by raising your hand and waiting for them to contact you.

Will I see the remote proctor? 

No. They will only appear if something seems wrong, or if you raise your hand to take a bathroom break or to ask a question. 

What will happen if my internet cuts out? 

If you lose your internet connection briefly during your test, you will be given extra time equal to the time lost to complete your test. 

If you lose your internet connection for a substantial amount of time and need to retake your test, this will be organised by your Test Partner (British Council or IDP: Australia).

Can I access other programs or browsers? 

No, you will not be able to access any other programs or browsers during the test.  If AI detects that you attempted to access any other programs or browsers during the test, your test session will be terminated.   

Can I use keyboard shortcuts such as Ctrl+C or Ctrl+V during the Listening, Reading and Writing test?

You are not allowed to use keyboard shortcuts during the Listening, Reading and Writing test. If you are caught using it, you will be blocked by AI at the first attempt, and at the second attempt your test session will be terminated. 

Who will mark my IELTS Online test? 

IELTS Online is marked by official IELTS Examiners, using the same IELTS marking criteria as IELTS on computer and IELTS on paper.

When will I receive my results? 

You will receive your results 6-8 calendar days after taking your test. 

How will I receive my results? 

You will receive an email telling you your results are available and how to access them electronically. 

No paper Test Report Forms (TRFs) will be available. 

Will I be given a score for each test (Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking), including an overall score? 

Yes, you will be awarded an overall band score and band scores for each of the four tests: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking.

Can I use the IELTS Online results the same way as results from a test centre?

IELTS is widely recognised by universities and other education providers around the world. If your preferred organisation accepts IELTS Online, you can use your results in exactly the same way as if you have taken IELTS at a test centre.

Before you book, check with your preferred organisation directly to make sure they accept IELTS Online.

IELTS Online is not suitable for immigration or professional registration purposes.

How do I share my test results with my chosen institution(s)? 

As part of the booking process, you can select which institution(s) you would like to share your IELTS Online results with. Your results will be sent to them directly.

How will my chosen institution(s) receive my test results and how will they verify my score? 

Educational institutions and organisations will receive your electronic IELTS Online Test Report Form (e-TRF) and use the IELTS Results Verification Service to verify your IELTS scores.

What is the Enquiry on Results (EOR) process for IELTS Online? 

The Enquiry on Results (EOR) process for IELTS Online is the same as IELTS taken in a test centre. For more information, please visit the IELTS results page.

How can I check my equipment is compatible with IELTS Online? 

Before you book, we advise that you read the IELTS Online equipment, technical and environment requirements. 

Once you have booked the test you will be emailed information about how to carry out a pre-test system check on your laptop/computer.

What if I fail the pre-test system checks? 

Your IELTS Online booking confirmation email will include instructions to help you and provide contact details for our support team. 

What if I have an issue immediately before my test starts? 

If you experience any issues before your test, please contact your Test Partner support team. You will receive contact details in your booking confirmation email. 

What if I have a technical issue during my test?

If you have a technical issue during your test and if it is possible to do so, contact the support team via the Live Chat. If that is not possible, contact the support team using the contact details in the emails received from your IELTS Test Partner.

You will be given extra time equal to the time lost from the technical issue to complete your test.

Can I retake IELTS Online? 

Yes, you can retake the test as soon as you are ready.

What is the IELTS Online cancellation policy?

You can cancel your IELTS Online test up to 72 hours before your test date. 

Find out more about the IELTS Online cancellation policy.

How is my personal data being used? 

For IELTS Online we collect and store your personal data to: 

• administer your IELTS Online test
• ensure test integrity and prevent fraud
• improve the way in which IELTS Online is administered.

For more information about how we use your personal data, read the IELTS Online Privacy Notice. 

How can I access my personal data? 

If you would like to access your personal data, please email us.

Is my test recorded, and if so, how long is it kept for?

Yes, both a video and audio recording of you and your computer screen is captured during your IELTS Online test. 

• Your Listening, Reading, and Writing test audio and video recording is held for 60 days after your IELTS Online test. 
• Your Speaking test video recording is held for 3 months after your IELTS Online test.
• Your Speaking test audio recording is held for 3 years after your IELTS Online test.