IELTS tips: Do’s and don’ts on IELTS exam day

A couple of students have asked us small but critical questions of late, such as ‘which do I need to use for the exam, pen or pencil?’. We would like to share those questions and answers to make sure you feel more comfortable and confident when taking the IELTS exam.

What to expect on IELTS exam day

1. What do I need to bring to the exam?

You must bring your booking confirmation and passport; no other photo IDs, such as driving licence are accepted. Make sure you bring the same passport you used to book the exam.

Of course, you need a pen, pencil, and rubber (eraser) to write with in the exam. You can bring a bottle of water (only water in a transparent bottle), but you need to peel off the label. You cannot bring a mobile phone or watch into the room.

2. Which do I need to use for the exam, pen or pencil?

You can use either pen or pencil for the writing exam, but you must use pencil for the listening and reading exams.

We recommend you follow the same rule when you practise IELTS in exam conditions, so that you will not feel under pressure from unusual circumstances.

3. What if I arrive late for the exam?

If you are late for the exam, you are not allowed to enter the exam room. Consequently, you lose your exam fee; and in the worst case scenario, you could waive your offer from the university for not achieving the English requirement on time!

As you may know, public transport is not always reliable over the weekend. Therefore, make sure you arrive at the test centre with plenty of time before the scheduled start time of the exam.

Study IELTS in London or Manchester

Do you need to improve your IELTS score ahead of applying to study in the UK? Visit us for an IELTS practice test to learn your current reading, writing, speaking and listening ability, and sign up for a lesson package with our experienced teaching team! 

Good luck with your exam!