Introduction
The test day is the most significant step for all IELTS test takers. It is an opportunity to prove your language proficiency skills. No matter how proficient you are, being prepared for the final day is different.
Before you start reading, it is essential to note that the test has two sessions:
- LRW Test: The Listening, Reading, and Writing parts of the test take place on the same day in the same sequence. There are no breaks in between the sections.The LRW test can be taken in either paper or computer format at authorized centers for 2 hours and 30 minutes.
- Speaking Test: The Speaking section is conducted separately from the other parts. It involves an in-person interview that lasts for 11-14 minutes. This session may take place on the same day as the LRW test or within a week before or after.
Now, we will look at some tips to keep in mind about the test day. These will help you overcome the anxiety associated with the day. Further, we can classify the tips into three major checklists:
Tips Before the Test Day
Preparing for the final day is about more than just the day itself. These are the specific things you should keep in mind as you approach it:
Be thorough with the format
When preparing for a test, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the test format thoroughly. This will help you manage your time effectively during the exam.
- Know the schedule
Double-check the test date, time, and location. You should plan well in advance how you will reach the test center in time. Also, check your email to know when the Speaking Test is scheduled.
- Keep the documents ready
Ensure you have the identification proof you used while registering for the test. That would be some form of government identification, usually your passport. You can also ask the test center for confirmation.
- Have a good sleep
Having a fresh mind on the day of the test is essential. To ensure that, avoid studying late the previous day. You should sleep well to boost your concentration and energy the next day.
Tips On the Test Day
On the day of the test, it is crucial to follow these tips to make the experience easier:
- Eat well
Make sure to complete your meal on the test day. Test centers do not allow the test takers to bring in food. You will not get any food breaks during the test. So, have some healthy food before the test to avoid feeling hungry.
- Bring the essentials
Remember to bring your identification document to the test center. You may carry water in a transparent bottle. We advise you to get your stationery for a paper-based test. In the case of computer-delivered tests, the test center will provide them.
- Wear comfortable clothing
Uncomfortable clothes might distract you during the test. Therefore, be attired in some comfortable clothing. While there is no dress code for the test, wear something appropriate yet not overly formal.
- Be punctual
Wake up early on the test day. You can set the alarm for the previous night for the test center with extra time in case you face traffic or other issues. Be on time for the test.
- Use the bathroom
Go to the toilet before the test begins. As you already know, there is no break between the test sections. You can use the bathroom during the test, but in that case, you will lose your valuable time.
- Leave personal belongings behind
The test center does not allow bringing in electronic devices and other personal belongings. You must leave mobile phones, watches, bags, food, keys, etc. outside the test room.
- Follow the instructions
The test supervisor will give out general instructions about the test. Pay attention and listen to them carefully. In case of any confusion, let the supervisor know and clarify your doubts.
Tips During the Test
Staying focused during the test is essential to give your best performance. Here are some tips that will help you to take the test with confidence:
- Read the questions carefully
Make sure that you read the question correctly. You need to understand what has been asked and respond accordingly. Also, pay attention to the given word limit. Do not add irrelevant points to fill in the answer.
- Watch the time
While you cannot bring in watches, every test center will have a wall clock. Check the time as and when required to ensure that you have enough time left for the remaining questions.
- Manage your time effectively
If a section has multiple tasks, plan your time accordingly. Try to attempt all the questions, as there is no negative marking. However, only spend a little time on one question if you need clarification on the answer. You can always come back to it later if you can save time.
- Proofread answers
It is good to proofread for spelling and grammatical errors. Have a glance through your response after answering a question. The mistakes can affect your overall IELTS score.
- Report any issue
During the Listening test, ensure you can listen to the recordings clearly. In case of a problem, feel free to report it to the invigilator. You can also inform invigilators at the test centers about any other issue you encounter by raising your hand during the test.
- Go to the toilet if required
As mentioned earlier, you should avoid using the bathroom during the test to save time. However, if such a situation arises, let the invigilator know. You will be excused and escorted to the toilet.
- Relax and stay calm
Finally, try to stay relaxed as much as possible. If you get nervous, take deep breaths to calm down. Slow down a little until you are ready to focus again. Just remember that you are going to give your best.
All these tips apply when taking an IELTS test at a test center, either paper-based or computer-delivered. You can also take this test online, at home, on a laptop, or on a computer.
Tips for the Online Test
The format of the IELTS online test is the same as the one you take at a test center. However, this option has some limitations:
- It is only applicable to the IELTS Academic test. This means there is no means to take the IELTS General Training test online.
- The online test is not suitable for visa applications and immigration purposes. In such cases, you should opt for a test at an authorized test center.Â
- IELTS Online is only available in the following countries: Brazil, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, Indonesia, Italy, Mauritius, Mexico, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Turkey, and Ukraine.
Some important tips about the online IELTS Academic, that is, IELTS Online test are:
- Download the software
You will require software specially designed to take the test. Check your mail before the test day. Follow the link and install it on your laptop or computer. Keep everything ready in advance.
- Check system requirements
Make sure that your device meets the system requirements of the test. It should have a microphone, speakers, a webcam, a single screen, and an operating system that is either Windows or macOS.
- Arrange for a suitable environment
Set up a private desk space so that you can take the test in a quiet environment. Ask the people around you to cooperate with you during the test duration.
- Check the internet connection
It is essential to have a strong internet connection during the online test. Ensure that you can avail an uninterrupted service on the test day.
- Log in within time
Technical issues can happen anytime. So, plan enough time to log in to the test. You may not be allowed to take the test if you face a delay during the process.
- Scan the room
On the day of the test, you will need a phone or tablet to scan the room in which you will be taking the test. However, you have to switch it off and keep it away before you begin with the test.
Conclusion
Overall, staying calm and focused during the IELTS test would be helpful. While proper preparation is of utmost importance, having a checklist for the test day is also essential. We hope that our tips and strategies will get you ready for the day. Good luck!
FAQs
What should I bring on IELTS exam day?
You should bring your identification proof on the day of the test. It should be the same one you had used during registration. You may also bring stationery such as pens, pencils, and erasers.
What should I not bring to the IELTS exam?
You should refrain from bringing any electronic gadgets such as mobiles, tablets, smart watches or even normal watches into the test room. Neither should you bring food or any personal belongings like keys and wallets.
Can I drink water during IELTS?
You can bring water into the test room only if it is in a transparent bottle. Then, yes, you are allowed to have water during the test.
How should I dress for the IELTS exam?
You should dress comfortably for the IELTS Test. This means that it is not compulsory to be in formals. If you think you might feel cold due to the weather or air-conditioning, you may also carry another layer of clothing such as a jacket or a sweater.
Can I bring a bag to IELTS?
No, you should not bring a bag into the test room. If you have any luggage with you, you will need to leave it at the reception desk of the test center. You can collect it after your test.
