Before you book your test

  1. Make sure you have a form of valid ID (passport or national ID card) at hand, as you will need to upload a clear photocopy of it when you book your test. Foreign citizens must register with the passport and provide the same document on the test date. 
  2. Download and read our Information for Candidates, which contains important information about the test format, the question types and the test results. Please note that IELTS is not recommended for test takers under the age of 16. 
  3. Pay for your test. 

    i) Online by payment card (VISA and MasterCard available only).

    ii) Via a direct bank transfer 

Book a paper-based IELTS test

If you choose paper-based IELTS, you will answer the Listening, Reading and Writing sections on a paper. The Speaking test is carried out face-to-face with a trained IELTS examiner.

Book a computer-delivered IELTS test

If you choose computer-delivered IELTS, you will take the Listening, Reading and Writing sections on a computer. The Speaking test will remain face to face with a trained IELTS examiner, as we believe it is the most effective way of assessing your speaking skills.

Book IELTS for UKVI

There is a specific IELTS test for UK visas and immigration. If you are looking to work, study or live in the UK then you may need to take this test.

IELTS test date confirmation

Once you have completed the booking process, you will receive a confirmation giving you the start time of your test and the venue address approximately five days before the test.

Your Speaking test may be scheduled on the same day as the other sections, or on a different day within a 7 day window before or after your main test day. The test centre will send you a confirmation for the Speaking Test date.

After booking your test, you will also receive an automatic email with your access codes to the free online course: Road to IELTS.

You will also receive your IELTS Reference Number to access the Test Taker Portal. Please make sure that you have included your email address correctly when you book your test.