IELTS at Home

IELTS Online is a new option for taking the IELTS Academic test. Now, you can take this leading English language test from home or any private location with a good internet connection. It has the same format and length as the traditional IELTS test done at a test center

But with IELTS Online, you can choose where you want to take it. The Speaking test happens online through a video call with an IELTS Examiner. It follows the same strict security measures before, during, and after the test.

Recognising Organisations (ROs) will check results online, just like they do for tests taken at centers.

Do I need to be at home to take IELTS at home?

No, you don't have to be home to take your test. You just need a private, well-lit place where no one will interrupt you, and a good internet connection.

What type of computer/laptop do I need?

To do IELTS Online, you need a laptop or desktop computer with just one screen; you can't use more than one screen.

What type of space do I need?

You should have:

A quiet place with a private desk in a well-lit area
Your identification (passport or ID card)
A stable internet connection
A desktop or laptop computer

Please check the terms and conditions for a list of items you can't have during the IELTS Online test when you book it.

Computer Requirements:

Windows or macOS
a webcam
a microphone (headphones are prohibited)
speakers
single screen

Can I take the IELTS exam remotely from home?

Yes, you can do the IELTS exam online at home or any quiet place with good internet. Just make sure you have almost 3 hours without interruptions.

Can I prepare for IELTS at home?

Good news! You don't have to spend a lot of money on coaching classes. With careful planning and a good understanding of the test's format, you can get ready for IELTS at home.

Discover how 'shadowing' can help you practice IELTS speaking alone .

What is the best way to prepare for IELTS at home?

To get ready for the IELTS exam at home, try these easy tips:

learn about the four parts - speaking, listening, reading, and writing
take practice tests
record yourself practicing speaking
and improve your reading by reading more books, magazines, and newspapers

10 Tips on how to prepare for IELTS at home?

Get to know the IELTS test layout

Understanding the IELTS test layout is crucial. Here's how to do it simply:

Learn the parts: There are four - Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking.
Check sample papers: Find them online to see what kinds of questions are asked.
Use official resources: The IELTS website has detailed explanations and tips.

By learning about the test parts and practicing with real examples, you'll know what to expect on test day.

Find out what you're good at and what needs work

To get ready for the IELTS exam well, you need to find out what you're good at and not so good at in English. Here's how:

Take practice tests: Take lots of practice tests to see what you're good at and what's hard for you.
Analyze your results: Pay attention to the questions you get wrong the most and see if there are any common mistakes.
Seek feedback: If you can, ask teachers online or friends who are good at English to give you feedback on your writing and speaking.

Knowing what you're good at makes you more confident. Knowing what you're not so good at shows you where to study harder.

Make achievable goals and plan your study time

Making a simple plan for your study time is key for IELTS prep. Here's how to do it well:

Set specific, achievable goals: Decide what scores you want for each IELTS section. Make these into smaller, easy tasks.
Create a study schedule: Set aside specific times each week to study for the IELTS. Make sure you practice reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
Incorporate variety: Use many kinds of study tools like ChatGPT, books, websites, and apps, and talk with friends or use language sites to practice.
Track your progress: Check your goals and how you're doing often. Change your study plan if you're not getting better as you hoped.

Follow these steps to plan your study time well and work towards getting the IELTS score you want.

Finding the Right Study Materials

Picking the right study materials is important for good IELTS prep. Here's what to collect and include:

IELTS Prep Books: Invest in the latest editions of trusted IELTS preparation books. Examples include "The Official Cambridge Guide to IELTS" and "Barron's IELTS International English Language Testing System".
Online Resources: Use free online resources such as the British Council, IDP IELTS, and Cambridge English for practice tests, tips, and educational videos.
Mobile Apps: Download IELTS preparation apps like IELTS Ready from the British Council and IELTS by IDP app for on-the-go studying.
Practice Tests: Practicing often with full tests from books or online helps you get used to the testing environment. Websites like IELTS.org and IELTS-Exam.net give free practice tests.
Listening and Speaking Practice: Use English radio, podcasts, and movies to improve comprehension and pronunciation. British Council Podcasts and Videos, TED Talks, and BBC Radio are excellent for listening practice.

Gathering different materials helps prepare fully for the IELTS and meets various learning needs.

Work on managing your time better

For better IELTS preparation, use these time management tips:

Create a Study Schedule: Split your study time for the IELTS into parts for Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Spend more time on the parts you find hardest.
Set Clear Goals: For each study time, set clear goals. Like finishing two reading tests or getting better at writing essays.
Prioritize Tasks: Find out which tasks are most important and need to be done soon. Work on these first so they get the attention they need.
Use a Timer: Practice with a timer to feel like you're in a real test. This helps you get better at managing your time during the exam.
Take Regular Breaks: Taking short breaks while studying helps you stay focused and avoid getting too tired. Use the Pomodoro Technique: study hard for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break.
Review Progress: Every week, look at what you did and change your plan if you need to, to reach your goals.

These steps help you manage your study time better, making preparing for the IELTS easier and less stressful.

Improve Your Test-Taking Skills

To do better on tests, it's important to use good test-taking tips.

Practicing Under Exam Conditions: Set a timer and get rid of distractions to practice working under pressure.
Familiarize Yourself with the Test Format: Understanding what will happen can lower worry and make you feel more sure of yourself.
Read Instructions Carefully: Make sure you know what's needed before you start any section to avoid mistakes.
Answer Easy Questions First: Build your confidence by getting easy points first, then go back to the harder questions.
Stay Calm and Focused: If you're stuck, breathe deeply and move on; worrying wastes time.
Review Your Answers: Allow time to check your answers again for mistakes.

Using these tips can really help you do better on tests by being more efficient and accurate.

10 IELTS speaking mistakes you MUST avoid! (Masterclass PDF)