Your guide to IELTS Online
In some countries, you can take the IELTS Online test at home or in a private space. You’ll take all sections on a computer; your Speaking test is done via a video call with an examiner.
What is IELTS Online?
IELTS Online is the same as the computer-based IELTS test, but is taken remotely at home or in a suitable private space. It is only available for the Academic version of the test.
You will sit at your own computer and work your way through the Listening, Reading and Writing sections of the test, reading the questions and answering them directly on-screen. Your Speaking test will be a live conversation with an examiner via video call.
To take the IELTS test online, you need the right equipment and a stable internet connection.
A smooth and convenient IELTS test experience from home
Our IELTS Online test offers a simple, straightforward test experience, with several features to help you move through the test with ease:
- Easy-to-use interface with adjustable font sizes, colours and volume control
- On-screen timer so you can manage your time effectively
- Note-taking tools so you can capture important details
- Highlight/underline functions to focus on important information
- Easy navigation between questions so you can move forward and back as many times as you need.
Why take IELTS Online?
Our remote IELTS Online test is a convenient choice, offering several benefits for test-takers:
Save time and money on travel to a test centre with our IELTS remote option
Avoid noise and distractions in a comfortable, private testing space
IELTS Online test-takers typically get their results in 6-8 days
Book IELTS Online with the British Council
Ready to book your IELTS Online test? Once you’ve checked that IELTS Online is available in your country, you can search for a convenient date. Get ready for your next move with the British Council.
How to take IELTS Online
Before you book an IELTS Online test with the British Council, there are a few things that you need to check.
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Check who accepts IELTS Online
Confirm that your chosen institution accepts IELTS Online
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Check test availability
Use our booking portal to see if IELTS Online is available in your country
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Check your equipment
Ensure you have the right equipment to meet our technical requirements
How to prepare for IELTS Online
Book IELTS with the British Council and get our exclusive preparation resources for free. You’ll get access to 40 scored practice tests, live lessons and more, so you can take IELTS with confidence.
IELTS Online: FAQs
If it’s a short break, you will get extra time to complete your test. If the connection cannot be restored, the British Council will help you organise a test retake. To avoid issues, please make sure you have a stable internet connection.
A remote proctor will monitor your Listening, Reading and Writing test online and ensure the test maintains the security standards set by IELTS. In the Speaking test, your examiner will perform this role.
The IELTS test takes about 2 hours and 45 mins: Listening (30 minutes), Reading (60 minutes), Writing (60 minutes) and Speaking (11-14 minutes). If you take IELTS on paper, you will have an additional 10 minutes at the end of the Listening section to transfer your answers from the question booklet to the answer sheet.
We use strict security measures and standardised procedures to ensure test integrity and fairness.
[OPT] For IELTS Online, the examiner or remote proctor will ask you to show them your room, desk and equipment with your mobile device.
You must use a computer that meets the IELTS Online technical requirements. Mobile phones, devices and Chromebooks are not permitted.
The online version of IELTS Academic (IELTS Online) is accepted by many universities worldwide, but you should check with your chosen institution before booking your test.