How to apply for ielts

Dates, documents and options

Let’s start with the basics: the IELTS exams you can take, the where and when and which documents you need as proof of identity.

IELTS options

• Academic IELTS: for university study where English is used General Training IELTS: for migration and work purposes IELTS UKVI (Academic or General Training): for UK visas and immigration* IELTS Life Skills: for family migrants to the UK

Paper or computer?

From 2106, it is possible to take IELTS Academic and General Training as well as IELTS UKVI either through the traditional paper based exam or online in what is called the computer delivered version. The possible advantages of the latter are first test results are promised within 5-7 days as opposed to 13 in the case of the paper exam. Also, many IELTS candidates may prefer the keyboard and screen to pen and paper.

Of course, both versions are taken at British Council or IDP centres and the Speaking Test in both versions remains face-to-face with an examiner.

However, not all countries and centres offer the computer delivered IELTS test yet so please check to see its availability in your case. (https://www.ielts.org/about-the-test/paper-or-computer)

Covid-19 and IELTS Indicator

• IELTS Indicator is an online test you do at home introduced in March 2020 for those intending to take Academic IELTS but have been unable to do so because Test Centres have been temporarily closed. It gives you the chance to measure your ability while tests are suspended. Results are given in 7 days and can be used to give higher education institutions an official assessment of your English proficiency. For information, go to (https://www.ieltsindicator.com)

Exam frequency

• IELTS exams are held up to 48 times a year. Not every test centre will necessarily offer all the available dates. It will depend on demand. Your first step is to check with your nearest exam centre. IELTS Indicator is offered once a week. Remember this test is only available for a limited time where IELTS testing is currently suspended.

Documents

• Proof of identity for IELTS registration and on test days is very important. You must choose between your passport and your national identity card. But if you present IELTS outside your country, you can only use your passport.

The application process made easy

Here are the steps to take:

• Find your nearest IELTS test location.

With over 1,600 test centres worldwide, there should be no problem in finding one close to where you are.

• Choose the date you want to take the test

Remember, Much depends on demand and test type. Your chosen IELTS test centre will have the available dates online as well as any cutoff date after which the centre will not accept more applications for a particular exam date. These available dates may be for up to 2 or 3 months ahead or only 1 month. The best advice is to make your exam booking one of the first for your chosen date. That way you won’t be disappointed if all the places available are already filled.

Also, select your date thinking carefully about when you will receive the results (a maximum of 13 days after the test date) and how that may affect important deadlines, for example,