Q: How often is an IELTS or IELTS Life Skills test available in Australia?

For IELTS for UKVI and IELTS Life Skills , the frequency varies by location. It’s best to check with IDP IELTS Sydney Test Centre and IDP IELTS Melbourne Test Centre when the next available test is.

Question 1

Which IELTS test do I need for a UK visa application?

Accepted Answer

If you are applying for a UK visa, there is an IELTS test for you.
For visa applications to the UK, you may need to have an English language qualification. IELTS and IELTS Life Skills are included on both the UK Home Office’s list of Secure English Language Tests (referred to as SELT tests by UK Home Office) and the OFQUAL register.
It is recommended you check all visa requirement information directly with the UK government website.
To find out whether you need to take an approved test, what level you need to achieve, and which test you can use, you should contact UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). For more information, please visit here.

Question 2

What do I need if I am applying to study at a British university or college?

Accepted Answer

Those who are applying for the Student route to a Highly Trusted Sponsor (HTS) to study a bachelor or postgraduate degree are required to meet the English language level set by the institution. All British universities and colleges accept IELTS results. This means that you do not need to take the IELTS test under UKVI specified condition unless your institution has required you to. Please visit here for more information.

Question 3

Can I use any IELTS test result for a UK visa application?

Accepted Answer

From 23 April 2015, you will require results from an “IELTS for UKVI” test from one of the UKVI authorized test centres. If you need an IELTS test for UK visa applications, you can only do this at a UKVI approved IELTS test centre. IDP IELTS Sydney and IDP IELTS Melbourne are the only UKVI approved test centres in Australia.

Question 4

How often is an IELTS or IELTS Life Skills test available in Australia?

Accepted Answer

For IELTS for UKVI and IELTS Life Skills, the frequency varies by location. It’s best to check with IDP IELTS Sydney Test Centre and IDP IELTS Melbourne Test Centre when the next available test is.

Question 5

How often can I re-take IELTS or IELTS Life Skills?

Accepted Answer

For IELTS test, there are no restrictions on retaking the test. For IELTS Life Skills, if you pass the test, you cannot retake it at the same level for a period of two years. If you do not pass it, there are no restrictions on retaking the test.

Question 6

How is my IELTS test different if I take it for UK visa purposes?

Accepted Answer

Separate sessions will be held for UKVI applicants. You must ensure you register for an “IELTS for UKVI” test date at IDP IELTS Sydney or IDP IELTS Melbourne
The IELTS test for UK visa purposes is designed to meet certain administrative requirements that are specific to UK Visas and Immigration. Test Report Forms will be slightly different, to show that test takers have taken the test at an IELTS UK visa session.

There are no differences in the test format or questions. The actual test taken is the same – same content, examiners, format, level of difficulty, scoring and so on.

IELTS for UKVI is delivered on computer and is now available at IDP IELTS Sydney or IDP IELTS Melbourne in Australia. Test takers who choose the new option will take their Listening, Reading and Writing components using a computer. The Speaking test will remain face to face.

Question 7

If I take an IELTS for UKVI purposes, can I use my result in other countries/for other purposes?

Accepted Answer

You can use your results in most countries and for different purposes but before you book your test, it's good to check what the IELTS requirements are for your application.
IELTS test results are accepted by over 11,000 organisations worldwide, including universities, colleges, governments and employers.

Question 8

How can I request a remark of my score?

Accepted Answer

You can choose to have one or more parts of your test re-marked – this is called “Enquiry on Results”. Your test will be reviewed by a Senior Examiner from IDP IELTS. The review may take between 6 to 8 weeks.
The fee for Enquiry on Results is AUD$176. If your test results improve, you will receive a full refund of the Enquiry on Results fee and you will be issued a new Test Report Form with your new results. If there is no improvement to your original results you will not receive a refund. You must make your request within 6 weeks from the date of your test.
Please follow the steps below to apply for Enquiry on Results:

Download and complete the Enquiry on Results Form.

Send your completed Enquiry on Results Form together with your original Test Report Form to your test centre by post. You can find the address of your test centre on the form. Please note that your order will not be processed until the centre receives both the completed Enquiry on Results Form and your original Test Report Form.

Question 9

What if I'm under 18 and need to take IELTS for UKVI?

Accepted Answer

If you’re going to be less than 18 years of age on the date of your test, you will need a parent or guardian to complete the IELTS Minor Consent Form. We recommend you scan and email the completed form to us at ielts.sydney@idp.com or ielts.melbourne@idp.com before the test date. If you are under the age of 18 on test day and do not have a completed IELTS Minor Consent Form with you, you will not be able to sit the test.
Read our Child Protection Policy

IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI)

Frequently asked questions

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IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI)

Frequently asked questions