What to expect on IELTS test day?

IELTS test day is always circled large on the calendar for any international student. You’ve done the studying, practice tests and preparation. All that is left is for you to take the exam. Knowing what to expect on IELTS test day helps keep your stress and anxiety levels down. It also means that all tour focus is on doing your best on the IELTS test. We let you know what is in store for you on test day and what to look out for.

What time do I need to be there on IELTS test day?

It’s always best to arrive early. Our suggestion would be at least an hour before the test starts. It’s a good idea to plan your route to the test centre and know how you will get there. That way you can estimate the amount of time to allocate. Remember that the test centre might not be the same place as where you booked your test. Make sure that you double-check on this. You can do so by referring to your confirmation email.

Arriving early means you have time to settle in and get your documents checked well within time. There is nothing worse than feeling rushed or overwhelmed before you must write a test. If you have made special arrangements for test day due to a disability or medical condition, ensure that you’ve done so 90 days before the test day. This notification allows the test centre can make the necessary arrangements.

Remember that if you arrive late for your IELTS test, there is a chance you won’t be able to take the test.

Find out how to prepare for the IELTS test.

What type of ID verification will I need for IELTS?

As you arrive at the test centre your identification will be checked and verified. This is usually a passport or other valid form of ID. You must make sure to have your valid and original ID with you on test day. Your ID should be the same document that you used to book for your IELTS test. Your ID needs to be up to date and must not have expired.

The photograph on your ID should be recognisable and contemporary. The test centre staff need to be able to tell it’s you. Once your ID is verified you will then have a photograph taken at the test centre. This photograph is the one that will appear on your IELTS Test Report Form. 

A finger scan is taken at the same time. You’ll use finger identification again on entering the test venue.

Explore the benefits of taking the IELTS test.

What can I take into the IELTS test venue?

You're only allowed what is necessary to write the IELTS test. You will take your ID, a pen, a pencil, and an eraser. The pencil is used for the listening and reading sections of the test. You are also allowed to take in a clear bottle of water.

You won’t be allowed to take your electronic devices or other possessions into the IELTS test venue. These are booked in and stored outside of the test room. You might be tempted to sneak a snack into the test; however, no food is allowed. That’s why it’s always a good idea to have a good meal before arriving for your test.

Do you want to find out where the IELTS test is accepted?

What happens when I go into the IELTS test room?

Once you have entered the IELTS test venue, you’ll be seated by the IELTS test invigilator. At this point, you can place your test materials down on the desk or table, but do not make any notes before receiving your test paper and beginning the test.

Once you’re in the IELTS test room, it’s all about concentration and focus. You cannot speak to other candidates, and if you have a question, you need to raise your hand to get the invigilators attention. When you are given your test papers, wait for the instructions from the invigilator before starting and only when they have confirmed that you can begin.

In all IELTS test venues, there is a single clock that designates the time. You have two hours and 40 minutes to complete the test, including listening, reading, and writing. You are not allowed to leave the test room in the last five minutes of any test section. However, if you need the bathroom, you can leave the room with the permission of the IELTS invigilator or supervisor.

Read more about how the IELTS test is developed and what the IELTS test verification service is.

Can I get help during the IELTS test?

Yes, you can. However, this won’t be help with the answers. If you need help with test instructions or are confused about a test component, you can ask the supervisor. Further, for the listening section of the test, make sure that you can hear the audio. If you can’t hear the sound properly you need to tell the supervisor as soon as possible. You get just 10 minutes after the audio has played to write your answers down.  

Discover how the IELTS test is marked and how to book an IELTS test.

What happens when the IELTS test is over?

Once you have finished your test, you need to wait for instructions from the IELTS invigilator or supervisor. You can’t get up immediately and leave the room. You can provide feedback to the invigilator or supervisor about the test experience. If there is anything that stands out for you or that you would like officially noted, you can fill out an IELTS Test Day Incident Form. You don’t have to do this immediately, but it needs to be submitted at least one week after the test is completed.  

Confused about the types of IELTS tests there are?

Are there any top tips for IELTS test day?

We have a few top tips for test day that can help you get through and achieve the results you’re looking for:

• Read the test instructions carefully so that you know what is being asked.
• Double-check your answers when you have written them on the answer sheet.
• Make sure to watch your timing for each of the components. Pay attention to the suggested timing.
• Stay calm and relaxed. You’ve prepared well for the test, and now you have the chance to demonstrate your knowledge.
• Work carefully and methodically on the questions. You’ll get through it.
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions. The invigilator and supervisor are there to help.

That’s a wrap of what you can expect on IELTS test day. For further reading, our guide to IELTS vs TOEFL could be helpful. We also have a comprehensive guide to English language test scoring and the test results you need to for top university courses.