Question 1

What should I bring on my test day?

Accepted Answer

You must bring the same passport or national identity card that you used to book your IELTS test. If you do an IELTS on paper test, you can take pens, pencils and erasers into the examination room. If you do an IELTS on computer test, the centre will provide you with pencils and paper.
You must leave all of your personal belongings outside the examination room in a secure area or locker. Mobile phones, pagers and smart watches must be switched off and left with your personal belongings.
If you keep mobile phones or electronic devices with you, you will be disqualified.

Question 2

What do I need to bring to my Speaking test?

Accepted Answer

You must bring the same passport or national identity card that you used to book your IELTS test. Your ID will be checked before you enter the interview room and again during the interview.

Question 3

What accents can be heard in the Listening and Speaking tests?

Accepted Answer

As IELTS is an international test, a variety of voices and native-speaker accents are used in both the General Training and Academic tests.

Question 4

If I take IELTS on paper, can I write notes in the question booklets?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you are encouraged to write notes on the question booklets. IELTS examiners do not have access to your question booklets.

Question 5

Can I make notes during the IELTS on computer test?

Accepted Answer

Yes. IELTS on computer provides a note-taking and highlight function. You can try these functions on the familiarisation tests here. You can also write notes on the login details sheet you receive at the beginning of the test.

Question 6

Can I write my answers in capital letters?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can use all capital letters in the IELTS Reading and Listening sections. If you use capital letters in the Writing section, make sure that your punctuation is correct and the examiner can see where you start and finish sentences.

Question 7

How can I improve my Writing band score?

Accepted Answer

Read the assessment criteria used for both Academic and General Training Writing tests carefully before your test day. The examiner will assess your writing based on four criteria for Task 1 and Task 2.
Remember that Writing Task 2 is worth twice as many marks as Task 1. You can improve your Writing band score by practising. Our news and articles page has extensive tips and advice to help you prepare and improve your English-language skills.

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