About the Test

Should I do the Academic or General Training exam?

The Academic test is usually taken by those applying for undergraduate and postgraduate courses and for professional registration.

Candidates may choose to take the General Training exam for immigration purposes or to undertake work experience in an English speaking country.

You should confirm which test you are expected to take with your receiving institution, which will be able to explain their entry requirements to you. The above explanations are provided as a guide only.

What does the exam consist of?

On the test day, you will be examined in the following areas:

• Listening
• Reading
• Writing (tests held in the morning)
• Speaking

Read about IELTS preparation from the British Council.

Will the speaking test be held on the same day as the other modules?

The speaking test can be held up to seven days before or after the written part of the test.

At the University of Surrey, the speaking test is usually held on the same day as the other tests - you will be contacted in advance if we plan to hold the speaking test on an alternative day.

What can I bring into the examination room?

Only pens, pencils and erasers. You must bring the passport/national identity card you used on the IELTS Application Form to the test. You will not be allowed to sit the test if you fail to bring your Passport or National ID Card indicated on your application form to the test. This document will be used for formal ID purposes. 

You must leave everything else outside the examination room. Mobile phones and pagers must be switched off and placed with personal belongings in the area designated by the supervisor. Letters confirming your place and test day details cannot be taken into the examination room. If you do not switch off your phone/pager or keep it on you, you will be disqualified.

What is the IELTS Candidate Verification System?

IELTS is enhancing its security systems in order to keep pace with evolving technology. As of May 2012, all IELTS candidates will have their photo and finger scan taken by IELTS staff on test day. In addition, candidates will also be asked to provide a sample of their signature. The new systems have been piloted successfully around the world, and all centres worldwide will be using them in 2012.
Please note that the photograph taken by the test centre will appear on candidates' Test Report Form. More information about the IELTS Candidate Verification System. 

How long does it take to receive my IELTS test results?

Test Report Forms (TRFs) will be issued on the 13th day following the test. Candidates must specify the address to which the results should be sent on their application forms and should inform the test centre in advance if they wish to collect the results in person.

Candidates will not be told their results over the phone or by fax/email.

Candidates receive one copy of their TRF. Up to five additional copies of the TRF can be sent to receiving institutions, which you should list on your application form.

Alternatively, please complete an application for ‘Additional TRFs’ form and return to ielts@surrey.ac.uk

Read more about your IELTS results from the British Council.

 Please note that this should not be used as an official confirmation of your achievement.

Where can I find out further information about IELTS?

 Please go to official IELTS site and http://takeielts.britishcouncil.org/