This page contains IELTS FAQ and IELTS test information.
- What does IELTS mean? Answer
IELTS stands for: International English Language Testing System. This means it is about international English, not just British English.
- How many skills are tested in the IELTS test? Answer
There are 4 skills tested: listening, reading, writing and speaking.
- Which is best, IDP or British Council? Answer
See this page for tips and advice about where to take your test: IDP or BC?
- What is IELTS UKVI? Answer
- Does the IELTS test accept American English? Answer
Yes, it does. It is an international test of English. In the speaking test, most examiners speak with an English or Australian accent and you can have a mixed accent. However, for spelling in the writing test, you must choose either US or UK spelling – you can’t mix them.
- Which skills do I take on the same day? Answer
Listening, reading and writing are all taken on the same day. The speaking test can be taken either before, after or on the same day as the other skills.
- Is there a break between the reading and writing test? Answer
No, there is no break between the listening, reading and writing test. They are all taken together and take a total of 2 hours and 40 minutes. So, make sure you eat and drink well before you take your test
- Can I use a pen in my IELTS Test? Answer
You can use a pen or pencil for your IELTS writing test. However, for your listening and reading test, you must use a pencil (don’t forget to take an eraser with you).
- How many times can I take my IELTS test? Answer
You can take it as many times as you want. There is no limit. There is no time limit to wait between tests either.
- Can I wear a watch in my IELTS test?Answer
No, you can’t. You can’t wear a watch in any of the IELTS tests, even the speaking test. There will be a clock on the wall so you can check the time.
- What happens if I am colour blind?Answer
You should contact your IELTS test center before the exam to let them know. They will adapt any colour pages or illustrations for you in the test.
- General Training IELTS – what are the differences? Answer
The GT IELTS test is only different in reading and writing task 1. However, the question types of the reading test are the same as the Academic test which is why all reading lessons on my site will help you prepare for your GT reading test. The Writing Task 2 is also the same but with slightly easier questions. Even the marking criteria are the same for task 2 so you can benefit from all my WT2 lessons on my site. All students (GT and Academic) take the same speaking and listening test.
- Can I take IELTS online at home? Answer
In 2022, IELTS started offering a full IELTS test online. You can take it in your home or at a test center. See this page for details:
IELTS Official Online Test Info
- What are the advantages to taking online IELTS? Answer
The results will be available in just 3-6 days. Also, you have the option to take your test at home which gives you a more relaxed atmosphere.
- If I take online IELTS, are the writing and speaking tests marked by a computer? Answer
The speaking and writing sections of IELTS will always be marked by a trained IELTS examiner.
- Is the online IELTS test different to the test you take in an IELTS center? Answer
No. The contents, format, level and marking are all the same. It’s the same test that everyone takes.
- How do I take the speaking test online Answer
This will be done through a video call with an examiner. So, make sure your laptop mic is working and the volume is set properly.