All you need to know about taking IELTS at home

School leavers planning to study abroad will be able to take an interim online IELTS at home throughout the COVID-19 outbreak.

IELTS, which is short for the International English Language Testing System, is one of the most popular English language proficiency tests for higher education and global migration. In 2018, 3.5 million tests were taken worldwide.

As IELTS testing is suspended due to COVID-19, the British Council has released a temporary online version called IELTS Indicator.

What is IELTS Indicator?

The IELTS Indicator test includes all the components of a regular IELTS test: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.

It is a fully-online version with live IELTS questions, that are marked by real IELTS examiners. Thus, those doing IELTS at home can still get an indicator of their proficiency levels that is more reliable than a mock test.

Is the IELTS Indicator test the same as those taken at a test centre?

You must complete the Listening, Reading and Writing tests in timed sections, totalling approximately two hours and 45 minutes. The Speaking test will be conducted separately.

IELTS candidates would be relieved to know that these sections have been carried out online since 2018. Thus, the infrastructure has been well-tested and examiners are familiar with the format.

Be sure to check that the institution you are applying to accepts the IELTS Indicator score. Since this score is indicative, the British Council advises that certain organisations may not accept it in place of regular IELTS scores.

Thinking of taking the IELTS at home? Be prepared to complete each section in allotted time frames, as per normal. Source: Alain Jocard/AFP

Where and when are the tests available?

Through the IELTS Indicator, you can take the IELTS at home or at any location with a stable Internet connection.

The online test will take place once a week in markets where IELTS testing is currently suspended due to COVID-19.

How can you register to take IELTS at home?

Students can register their interest here beginning April 22.

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