Great news! IELTS has set up a new method of taking the IELTS test in your own home. The test is called IELTS Indicator. It is an IELTS test online which you can take at home on your laptop or desktop. Please read all information on this page carefully to get an idea if this is for you or not.
This online test from your home has been designed by IELTS to help people in countries where the Coronavirus has delayed tests. The IELTS Indicator test is an Official IELTS Test. At the moment, it is only for Academic IELTS, not GT. However, this is early days. All organisations world wide are adapting to this new situation and possibly the GT test might be available at some point.
This page will give you information and answer the following about the new IELTS Indicator test.
- Which countries and how much?
- Does this test have four skills?
- Difference between IELTS and Indicator IELTS tests
- Can it be used for immigration?
- What you need at home to take the test – technology & conditions
- Speaking Test Info
- How to Book IELTS Indicator test
BE CAREFUL
Read this page very very carefully before you jump at this new test. You need to check that it is suitable for you.
1) Which Countries and How Much?
This new IELTS test is only available in some countries where the Coronavirus has caused tests to be suspended. The countries where this test will be available will be released on April 22nd when booking opens. It is only available for a limited time!! FEES: IELTS will release information about the fees on April 22nd as well.
2) Does this Test have all Four Skills?
Yes, it does. It will be the same as the Computer Based IELTS test and will cover all 4 skills. If you are unfamiliar with the computer based test, read this page: IELTS Computer Test Pros and Cons. You can also find practice questions to get used to using a computer for your test on the IELTS BC website for free.
The results for the IELTS Indicator test will arrive within 7 days.
As with a normal IELTS test, each section of the test will be strictly timed. For example, you will have one hour for reading, not more and not less.
Official IELTS examiners will mark the IELTS Indicator test in the same way and with the same marking criteria as the normal IELTS test.
3) Difference between an IELTS Test and an IELTS Indicator Test?
For the test format and difficulty level, IELTS Indicator is the same as any other IELTS test.
However, there is a difference. The IELTS test is well known and accepted by organisation and educational institutions around the world. The IELTS Indicator Test has been created only for this current period of global difficulties. Not all organisations or institutions will accept it.
This means you must contact the university or organisation that you are applying to before you book the test. You must get confirmation from them (in writing preferably) that they will accept these results.
4) Can I use it for Immigration?
No, you can’t. This new Indicator IELTS test is for those wishing to enter Higher Education, according to IELTS Official. However, as I mentioned above, we need to keep checking this information as things might change later this month or next month.
5) What you Need at Home to Take the Test
You need to have:
- a guaranteed quiet space for the length of the test. Once the LR&W sections begin, you can’t take a break. The test will run and you can’t stop it or pause it. Any unwanted interruption in your home and you will lose time and lose marks.
- Laptop or Desktop (Mac or PC). Not a tablet or phone.
- Strong, reliable internet connection. If your internet connection is not stable, you shouldn’t take this test.
- Good quality headphones to listen to the listening test. Do a volume check before you start your test. Make sure it’s all working properly.
- Download SEB (Safe Exam Browser) on your laptop successfully. You can find out details of install it here: SEB from IELTS
- Computer with a web cam.
- Zoom application should also be downloaded on your laptop.
- Computer with microphone for your speaking test.
6) IELTS Speaking Test Online
The IELTS Indicator test does have all four sections including IELTS Speaking. You will do the IELTS Speaking test with an examiner over your computer using a microphone and with video call. This means it is still face to face, but over the internet using a video call. Make sure it is a good microphone and that you have previously checked that the volume controls. Have your pen and paper ready for when you need to make notes in part 2.
7) How Can I Book IELTS Indicator?
As long as you are sure that this test will be accepted by the university or organisation you are applying to and you are sure you have everything you need for the test at home (see the above list), you can plan to book this test.
Bookings for this new test are now open. Click below:
CLICK HERE TO BOOK: IELTS Indicator Official Test.
You will also find the above information confirmed and more FAQs to help you understand more. Check to see if this test is available in your country.
NOTE
Please read this page again carefully. Do not make the mistake to pay for this test until you are 100% sure it is for you.
Will this be the Future of IELTS?
Who knows. It is a great way for IELTS to see how well it works. We might see more similar test options in the future. It would certainly make things easier for many candidates if this option would remain open after the Coronavirus situation has been resolved.
All the best
Liz
……………………….
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Dear Liz,
I’ll have soon the IELTS indicator. I would like to know if I can use a paper to take some note during the writing, reading and listening. Do you know if I can start for the unit I prefer or I have to follow the default order?
Thank you very much
You can’t alter the test in any way. It is fixed worldwide regardless of how or where you take it. Good luck!
Hey Liz,
Due to the COVID 19 in my country situation my LRW dates have been postponed a multiple times, so I was wondering if I can convert my existing IELTS booking to the Indicator test or I’ll have to cancel the previous test and book separately for the Indicator.
Thanks and Regards
It’s best you contact them directly about this. I would imagine you need to cancel one and book the other. However, definitely check with them.
I didn’t find the link of IELTS indicator test official page
See number 7.
Hi Liz,
I’m staying in Qatar and here the condition of Covid-19 is becoming worse day by day and due to that I can’t be able to give my IELTS test. So I’m planning to give IELTS Indicator test in upcoming dates. However, my question is will this indicator test be accepted while applying student visa or getting study permit in Canada?
Thanks
As explained on the page above, you need to contact each university individually and ask them. Also contact organisations. However, it is unlikely this will be accepted by visa departments. Having said that, it is always worth contacting them just in case the situation changes. Stay safe!!
Hey Liz, your blog has helped me a lot in the preparation of IELTS exam. I had scored RLSW 9,7. 5,7,6.5.
Now i will attempt once more to improve writing score. My university has sent me an email that they would be accepting IELTS indicator. I have checked that in my city, computer based IELTS would be conducted as per schedule in June. Last date is 30th June to inform my university about scores. What do you suggest? Shall i go for IELTS indicator or CD-IELTS?
They are the same tests. The only difference is that one is a real test done in a test centre and the other is an Indictor done at home. The Indicator test only gives you an indication of your score. The actual content, marking, scoring etc is 100% the same in both tests. If you have the option for taking either, talking again to your university and ask them which one they recommend you taking.
Hi Liz,
I live in Canada. Can I buy your IELTS package for writing ideas and grammar from here?
Waiting for your reply!
My website contains free lessons and tips for IELTS preparation which you can find on the HOME page. If you want Advanced Lessons or the Ideas E-book or the Grammar E-book, go to my store: https://elizabethferguson.podia.com/
Hi Liz,
I know the Indicator Test is accepted by the university I apply for. That’s why I just (about 6 hours ago) booked it and paid for it. Unfortunately I didn’t receive an email as a booking confirmation. Do you know whether it is usual that the mail comes late? I’m quiet nervous since I need this booking confirmation on Wednesday!
Thanks for your help and the detailed article!
Definitely contact them directly. Ping them a message on their Official Facebook page with all the details. If you have any other contact number, use it. Also check your spam folder for an email confirmation.
Thank you!
Could you please share your experience after taking IELTS indicator ?
I’m thinking about it.
Thank you a lot!
But if I completely agree with A , is it necessary to discuss B?
You can’t ignore part of the question. If you think it is good for old people to learn, you also believe it is not too late. To agree with one is to automatically disagree with the other – this is just logic. So, your whole essay will explain why you think it is not too late and why it is good for them to keep learning. Address the issue or issues in the question.
Hi Liz, I have watched your advanced lessons and I found them extremely useful, but I have a doubt about To what extent do you agree or disagree? questions.
For example, the statement is: Some people think that it is beneficial for old people to learn something new others believe that once a person is past 65 years of age it is too late to learn. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Did I understand it right that the statement asks me to answer two questions?
1. Do you agree that it is beneficial for old people to learn something new.
2. Do you agree that it is too late for old people to learn something new.
It is asking you which one you agree with. There are two sides: learning is good for old people / learning is too late for old people. Which one do you think is right? If you think A is right, you also think B is wrong. Therefore you would explain that whole opinion in your essay.
Hello,
I am from thailand. I already tested the IELTS indicator exam. I got the score from this test after that I submit this score with my university, but they ask me about TRF. Can you explain me about TRF with the IELTS indicator exam?
Best regard
Did you contact the university before taking the test to check that they accept results from an IELTS Indicator Test?
Yes, I confirmed with the university before I took an IELTS indicator test. They told me that they accept this score. But, they ask me about TRF. I don’t know how to get TRF from this test because I just got the online score.
Just tell them that. Send them your results and explain. They probably don’t understand much about the Indicator IELTS Test. Also speaking with your test centre and ask them how to explain it more clearly so that your university can understand. It sounds like it will be quick easy to sort out. Don’t worry.
hi liz,
first of all thank you for your huge help on my practice. I have submitted my speaking part like less than 10 mins ago and my session was cut before I was able to answer to the last question. The time was over as I was informed. I believe it will have a bad impact on my score, yet I’d like to learn how bad that it will have 🙁
tahnks for everything once again…
It won’t have any impact on your score at all. There is no such thing as “task response” or “task completion” in IELTS Speaking. You are marked on the language you use, not on your ideas, the content or if you finish your answer. Only the level of the English you used and showcased will have any impact on your score for IELTS Speaking. Relax – go and have a nice cup of tea 🙂
Hi liz,
Thanks alot for your invaluable info you are really amazing,
Could tell me whether the ielts indicator will open in next days or not?
Because here in Iraq we cannot do the paper based one,
Regards,
The IELTS Indicator test is now open. Just click on the link given on the page above to visit the official page 🙂 It will tell you which countries this test is currently available in. Stay safe!!
I already secured my seat in Canadian University for September 2020 intake. I have already MBA degree from the UnIted Kingdom and they exempt IELTS condition, but for visa purpose I need to pass IELTS test whether its general or academic with 6 bands each. I was planning to for September intake, but due to Covid-19 test centers are closed. What do you think if I go with IELTS indicator it will accepted for Canadian student visa purpose?
It is unlikely. However, as explained on the page above, you must contact the relevant organisations or visa departments and ask them directly. Get the answer in writing to confirm.
hi/ im a graduate student from Iran,as you know Iran is one of the epicenters in the middle east,and schools and universities are closed for almost 3 months,im wondering why you excluded my country out of your list?PLZ hear us out it is not safe to take a paper base exam here in Iran/ the public hygiene in my Country is a nightmare and no one follow social distancing as they should be / plz activate Iran soon/ TNX
I have not missed Iran from any list. I am a teacher and you are referring to IELTS the company. I do not work for IELTS. I am an independent teacher. I understand how tough the situation is in your country, but you need to write to IELTS and tell them. Take care of yourself as much as you can!!
Hi Liz,
As I live in Canada when today I checked the ieltsindicator website, it states that the test is not available in your country, is it true? In Canada we don’t have an option of exam?
Not all countries have this option at present. Hopefully IELTS will reconsider soon. Please remember this is all new and things will change as time passes.
Please liz can we use the ielts indicator for recruitment for nurses in United kingdom,for replacement of ielts academic.
It is unlikely. As mentioned on the page above, you need to contact the organisation you are applying to and ask them directly.
Excuse me, Dear liz, today is 22nd April 2020, but I the booking service for the IELTS indicator is still not available, do you know why? is that the time based on London, not of the other parts of the world?
I have just checked and the booking is open. I think the problem is that you checked at about 5am UK time.
Which country are enlisted for IELTS indicator
Follow the link to the Official page (which I’ve given on the page above) and you will find out.
Hello Liz,
As currently Covid -19 is one of the main topic around the world, Could you you suggest some related topics in writing or speaking which might be a good practice for future IELTS test.
A very good idea 🙂 I’ll put together some speaking and writing questions for the topic of “Health and Coronavirus”.
Hello Liz,
i always face problem in reading module; mostly in the questions like heading, true,falseNG, and multiple choices if possible can you help with the better guidance and exercise.
Did you review everything on this page: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-reading-lessons-information-and-tips/?
Hello dear Elizabeth. I have a doubt about academic writing task 2. If, for example, the question is “As well as making money businesses also have social responsibilities” To what extent do you agree or disagree with the statement?
I follow this structure:
Thesis: completely agree (with the view that businesses should do more for society than simply make money)
MBP1: The first reason why I agree that businesses should do more for society than simply make money.
MBP2: The second reason why I agree that businesses should do more for society than simply make money.
MBP3: I discuss opposite view of the statement (why I believe that businesses should also make money)
My question is: can I discuss opposite view If I COMPLETELY AGREE with another in my third paragraph and is my position clear if I follow this structure?
Thank you in advance
I think you need to read the question more clearly. “Making money” is not an opposite point. Not at all. The question says – should business focus on both – making money and social responsibilities? You have agreed – yes, they should focus on both. So, your essay will explain all that view.
The opposite view is “businesses should focus on making money, but not have social responsibilities”. That is the “disagree” side.
It sounds like you have trying ton apply a fixed idea of “one side and another side”. Don’t do this. Look at the question. See how many issues you need to address. Be very careful what “agree” means for that particular essay question.
I didn’t find the price. Does anybody know the price for the IELTS Indicator test?
As explained on the page above, the fee will be released by IELTS on April 22nd.
I just registered, and paid 149 USD(213.76 Canadian $)
Thank you so much. I am going to buy your Grammar Book. When it will be available and how much will be it
I hope to have it available on May 5th. I’ll offer a large discount for the first week. The price will be stated in my store when it’s ready 🙂
I mean by “Outline Sentence” is to briefly mention my ideas after giving position (in the thesis statement) that i am going to discuss in my body paragraphs. For example, I completely agree with this view, because X and Y. Or I completely agree with this view for several reasons that I will discuss below.
For example if the question is “Some people believe that unpaid community service should be a compulsory part of high school programs”. To that extent do you agree or disagree?
My thesis: I strongly agree with this view.
My outline sentence: Volunteer work can provide young people with the experiences they need for paying jobs and it can also help them see themselves as valuable contributors to society.
I hope I make my question more clear. Thanks so much for paying attention
If this is your thesis statement which provides your personal opinion, you need to state it clearly: In my opinion / I believe / I think. You MUST present your own personal view and make it clear. You also need to make it clear if this is something you agree with or not – you don’t make it clear enough. You need to be much more direct. It is as though you are trying to avoid being direct. You haven’t answered the question at all. Do you think it should be compulsory or not?? If you are not direct, it means you are not addressing the task properly. This means a low score for Task Response (the way you respond to the task).
Try your thesis statement again and this time, answer the question – be direct.
What you are asking is how much information to put in a thesis statement. Firstly, if you are asked for your opinion, you must state it hear. You do not need to use the words “agree” or “disagree”, you only have to state what your opinion actually is. You could have a partial agreement. As for the main points, it is your choice to include them or not. However, never give much detail. The details are for the body paragraphs. See my model essays to learn the different ways to write a thesis statement: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-2/
Thanks for.keeping us informed, Liz.
We just have to hang in there. I prefer paper based so I will wait it out until I can no longer. My test has been rescheduled to July 2020.
Hopefully I can travel by then to sit the exam.
Let us all forge ahead and as long as there is life, there is hope. Kudos to IELTS for taking this initiative in these unprecedented times!!!
A great attitude 🙂 Finger crossed 🙂
Hi Liz…. we are so thankful and grateful to your efforts and your assistance with us … thank you again
Hello dear Elizabeth, I hope you are well. I have one question to you about writing task 2. Is OUTLINE sentence important please answer my question as soon as possible 🙏
Thanks so much for your help
What do you mean by an outline statement? This is not something I teach and not something that is necessary for IELTS. However, you have not explained what you mean. It is possible you mean a thesis statement. An introduction should contain a background statement which introduces the issues you will addressing. The thesis statement contains your answer or position. That is all that is required by IELTS for an introduction paragraph. If this doesn’t answer your question, please explain your meaning of “outline sentence”.
Hi Liz, This is a great opportunity for cheating Isn’t it? 🙂
How they will find out if someone …
1. Mirror the laptop screen?
2. Give all control of a computer to another person?
3. Use two different headphones?
3.Looking to somewhere else again and again for cheating?
4. Hide the Prepared solutions for part-4(writing task)??
Moreover, what if I have a strong internet connection but at the time of a test the power went out?
I Hope u will answer above points.
IELTS have not released all information yet. Please click on the link provided above to go to their own page for further details. About your internet connection cutting out, you need to hope it won’t happen. Just like in the real test, you can’t pause the test or take a break – once it starts, it has started and you can’t alter the timing.
Hi Liz. Pls is this applicable to Nigeria?. How can I register for the test and is it accepted in Scotland..
As it is explained on the page above, information will be released by IELTS on April 22nd.
MY licencing authority in the UK has refused to accept this test in place of Regular IELTS
I cant believe how they stupid to open for Academic students only! They should consider us as well. For people who like me our work permit is gonna expired so so we need this online test chance too ‘
You really need to have patience. The Coronavirus situation has taken the entire world by storm. All organisations around the world are doing their best to change the way they work so that they can help people as quickly as possible. Instead thinking negatively, you should see this as a positive step forward. Either the Coronavirus situation will be brought under control worldwide or IELTS will no doubt expand this new test. I suggest you remain positive and thankful that IELTS is trying their best at this time.
I ask everyone using my site to take a positive approach. None of us asked for this situation. While some of you might be worried or even struggling with your own personal circumstances, please remember that people are dying. Everyone is doing their best to help. This includes IELTS. Even though your plans for your future might not be going as you expected or wanted, you can still use this time to prepare, learn and develop with your future in mind.
Thank You Liz ,
you are absolutely right, being patience , positive and collaboration together in this worldwide crisis and finding common ground is what we need at this time
Stay safe be well, comply to daily wash hands and Stay home
This is indeed great news. I hope UK is on the list. My deadline to submit my IELTS test is on 12 September mmmm I must pass this test.
Fingers crossed!
Hi，Liz.I am an English teacher of senior high school in China. I will take the exam for the first time on June 22. How can I improve my Speaking to 7.5? Its very important to me. I am applying for a degree of master. Thank yo Liz
There are two aspects to this. 1) Do you need to improve your English? In which case, you will need to prepare vocabulary and grammar to push your English to a higher level. 2) How much do you understanding about the marking system in IELTS Speaking and how to showcase your language skills appropriately? If you are not sure, go to the FREE Speaking section of this site. Click here: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-speaking-free-lessons-essential-tips/
Dear Liz, I used your content to prepare for my ielts test. I did it on 21st March and I got 7.5 overall band.
8 in speaking and 7 for the rest You are the best instructor ever. Thank you for existing.
Very well done hitting band 7.5 overall !! Not an easy task. Great speaking score 🙂 I’m glad my lessons were useful.
Thank you for useful info, hope it comes a day that everyone can sit for the exam at home relax and free from any stress.
I recommend ieltsliz to everyone who wishes to sit for IELTS. I started IELTS journey in 2018, and after several attempts I got my desired scores in February 2020. L 7.5, W 7, R 7 & S 7.5. Intending candidates, there is little or no need researching too many resources, with ieltsliz you are good to go.Ensure you go through the band score descriptors thoroughly, it really helped me. Thank you Liz
Great to see your results – very well done 🙂 I’m glad you found my site useful. You mentioned the band score pages, I’ll put a link below for other people:
https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-band-scores/
https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-1-band-scores/
https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-2-band-scores-5-to-8/
Well done again, Michael 🙂
I follow you since 2017 and since I took my first IELTS test back in 2018, guess what, I have to take it again 🙁
It’s good to see you are still very sharp at everything you do, thanks for this work you do for our community, Liz! I’m really grateful and appreciative of what you do!
Wishing you lots of luck in your next test 🙂
Hi, Liz. I want to join your group, after month is going my exam date, my current score is 7.0-7.5. I want to improve, where can I be informed how to join and fees? Thank you
There are no fees. My lessons are free. There are hundreds of pages of lessons, tips, model answers, topics etc on this site for free. Go to the HOME PAGE and click the necessary section of the test you want to learn.
Hi Liz. I am aiming to get the Academic IELTS to study an LLM this year. I already booked a date for the 9th, May 2020, but I think it is better to have it online at home, because otherwise I would have to go to Newcastle from Stockton-on-Tees, which may be difficult because of the Covid19 situation. Do you think it could be possible? Thank you.
On April 22nd, they will release a list of countries where this new test will be available. Hopefully the UK will be on that list. Also make sure you check with the university you are applying to that they will accept the results from this test. Lastly, make sure your typing skills are ok to take a computer based test. Fingers crossed!
Thank you very much, and I really appreciate the free resources and your Youtube channel!
Hi, you rock.
If they take the exam online, how they recognize if a person is cheating!?
Good question. I’m still waiting to hear more about their security measures. So far they have only released certain information.
Hi Liz, thanks so much for keeping us updated, I wonder if it is accepted here in Scotland!
Thanks so much Liz! This is very helpful. I am just worried that my typing skill will not be good enough to help me answer the listening skill questions. What do you think? Thanks again!
I understand your concern. I am personally reasonably good at typing, but I would still struggle doing the listening test on computer. I can’t type, listen and read the questions all at the same time. Go to the BC IELTS website and try their practice questions for the computer based test. If you find it difficult, you can either work on your typing skills or wait for the paper based test. Also remember, we don’t know which countries this Indicator test will be available in yet – that won’t be known until April 22.
Thanks for clear infomation,it is well understood .
will their be any invigilator in test taking room?
The test is taken in your own home. The test room is your own room in your house.
Is this also for GT candidates also. Can they use this score for immigration purpose???
I’ve just added that information to the page above. Please take a look again and check.
Can this be used for immigration purpose?
As explained, you have to contact the relevant organisation that you are applying to and get confirmation they will accept this new form of IELTS test.
Hi good morning
What about for those who are not expert in typing fast
Example. Writing essays.
The computer based test, which includes this new test, is for people who are good at typing. So, you have a choice of either improving your typing or waiting for the paper based test to become available again.
Hi Liz!
I really appreciate you on this great work you are doing regarding IELTS
Regards
Khalid Hussain
PhD Physics student
You’re welcome 🙂
Wow thanks for the info Liz. God bless you.
hello Liz. thank you for this information. I hope this will accepted by CGFNS as one of the requirements for visa screen. Keep safe.
Contact them and check first.
Hi Philline,
Were you able to confirm this with CGFNS. I am also in the same boat.
Gud afternoon mam
Hello i want to confirm that this test is only for practice or it is valid means TRF will be given
This is a test prepared by IELTS and marked by examiners. It is only valid if the educational institution or organisation you are applying to will accept it. You have to contact them directly and ask your institution or organisation if they will accept the results of this new temporary test.
🙏🏻😊thanks a lot mam for ur response
Thank you Liz!
Your explanation is much clearer and straightforward than the IELTS Official Facebook page.
Thanks for everything you do.
I’m glad it helps. I tried to summarise it as clearly as possible 🙂
Thank you for the notification
Is it available for GT as well ?
Not at present. I’ve just added information about that to the page above. Please check.
I have my IELTS test on 25th April which was already postponed three times, I am not sure what they will do time. However, I just want to ask if this online indicator will be Canadian immigration?
You have to contact the Canadian immigration department and ask them. It is up to you to check the results for this test will be accepted or not.
Can we give this test for immigration purpose.
You have to contact the relevant people in immigration to ask if they will accept the new IELTS test results. As explained above, not all organisation or educational institutions will accept this. It is your task to check that it will be accepted by the institution or organisation you are applying to before you book the test.
Hi liz is this accepted if i will work as a nurse here in UK since im a registered nurse in the Philippines
Big thanks
You would have to contact the relevant nursing department and ask them if they will accept this new temporary test. Good luck!