Book your IELTS Online test now if you need a proof of your English proficiency
If you are over 18-years old and need to take the IELTS Academic test, an alternative to an in-centre test is IELTS Online, an internet-based version of IELTS, which can be booked here.
Is the IELTS Online and the in-person IELTS test the same?
IELTS Online is the same Academic test that you would take in a test-centre but can be taken on your own computer from your home or office. The test is delivered on an online platform which you will need to install on your computer in advance of the test, and your test will be proctored remotely to ensure test security.
The Speaking test will be conducted by video-call with a trained IELTS Examiner and your test results will be available 6–8 calendar days after your test.
Compare IELTS Online and IELTS on Computer / IELTS on Paper
| Feature |
IELTS on Computer |
IELTS on Paper (in-centre) |
IELTS Online |
| Covers all 4 English skills: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Face-to-face Speaking test with an IELTS Examiner | ✓ | ✓ | on screen |
| Speaking test same day | ✓ | ✓ | before written parts |
| Use of headphones for Listening test | ✓ | X | X |
| IELTS Academic available | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| IELTS General Training test available | ✓ | ✓ | X |
| "One Skill Retake" available | ✓ | X | X |
| Results within 1–5 days | ✓ | 13 days | 6-8 days |
| Enquiry on Results (re-mark) available | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Suitable for migration | ✓ | ✓ | X |
| Available for UKVI (for UK Visa and Immigration only) | ✓ | ✓ | X |
| Available for minors (under 18 yrs) | ✓ | ✓ | X |
| The IELTS test is accepted equally, regardless of the format * | ✓ | ✓ | X |
| Available for special needs/access arrangements | ✓ | ✓ | X |
| Digital and downloadable test report form | ✓ | X | ✓ |
| Paper test report form | X | ✓ | X |
| ID requirement: National ID card (EU citizens only) or passport | ✓ | ✓ | passport only |
| *check with the institution(s) where you apply |
Is the IELTS Online recognised by all educational institutions?
IELTS Online is widely recognised by educational institutions, however you should check with the organisation to which you are applying to make sure they accept IELTS Online.
IELTS Online is not accepted by immigration authorities.
What techical requirements are needed for the IELTS Online test?
Before booking your test, please check the full list of work space and technical requirements which can be found on the registration page. Please note that a valid passport is the only ID which can be used for IELTS Online.
What does the IELTS Online test cost compared to an in-person test?
The cost for the IELTS test is the same whether you take the test at a test-centre or take IELTS Online.
How do I book the IELTS Online test from Norway?
You can book your IELTS Online test through British Council's website:
Contact information for your IELTS Online test in Norway
Once you have booked your online test, the British Council IELTS Online Customer Service hub is available to help you with any queries you may have. They can be contacted by e-mail or Live Chat, available through your Test Taker portal.
