IELTS is a challenging test. You can reduce the stress by familiarising yourself with the different task types, and by making sure you understand the rules and have the practicalities under control for test day. Here are four key points you should know, and some dos and don’ts.

1. Admin for test day

On your test days (both for the written papers and the IELTS Speaking test), you’ll need to bring the same identification document you used when you registered. At the test centre, you’ll also go through additional verification – typically a digital photo, and at some centres a finger scan or signature capture. Check your booking confirmation for any centre-specific requirements.

Note that your Speaking test may be scheduled for a different day from your written papers. All the same rules apply: bring the same ID, and arrive with plenty of time to spare.

2. Stationery for test day

Most candidates now sit IELTS on computer. If that’s you, the test centre provides everything you need at your workstation, including a pen and notepaper for making notes. You don’t need to bring stationery.

If you’re sitting the paper-based test, please note an important recent change: as of 2025, all paper-based IELTS tests must be completed in black pen, and pencils are no longer permitted. This applies to all sections, including the Listening and Reading answer sheets. Check with your test centre about whether pens are provided or whether you should bring your own.

You can bring water into the test room, but it must be in a clear, transparent bottle with any labels removed.

Either way, phones and smartwatches must be switched off and stored outside the test room. If a device is found on you or goes off during the test, you risk disqualification.

3. Arrive with plenty of time to spare

What is plenty of time? Enough to let you calm down after finding the right building and the right room. Plenty of time means you’re fully focused on the test when you enter the test hall – not still catching your breath.

4. Time is points… precious points

The clock does not stop for you to go to the washroom. Time spent away from your desk is time you’re not spending on your test, and those minutes could make all the difference to your final band score. So make sure you’re comfortable before you go into the test hall.

Do’s and don’ts in the test

A few other points worth knowing:

• Do wait until you’re dismissed by the invigilators before leaving your seat, even if you’ve finished.
• Do raise your hand if you have a technical problem – for example, if your headphones aren’t working properly during the Listening test, or if the computer freezes.
• Don’t ask the invigilator to explain a question. They can help with practical issues, but they can’t help you with the test content.
• Don’t assume the rules are the same as in other exams you’ve taken. IELTS has its own conventions, and it pays to know them in advance.

Final thought

Whether you’re taking IELTS on computer or on paper, the principles are the same: arrive prepared, know the rules, and don’t let avoidable distractions cost you marks. The more familiar everything feels on test day, the more of your attention you can give to the test itself – which is, after all, what you’ve been preparing for.