IELTS has embraced the new normal in a post-pandemic world with online IELTS tests to help candidates take the test without having to step out of their homes. The exam takes place in real-time, is marked by examiners on a live basis, and takes place only at a designated slot. Read on to learn more about the IELTS indicator checklist, registration, features, preparation & 2021 test format.
IELTS Indicator
With the COVID-19 pandemic still raging in several parts of the world, the IELTS has launched a new testing method to help minimize contact between candidates and examiners and limit physical interaction. The IELTS Indicator test is not new; the online test was launched in 2018 to make the exam more accessible. However, the pandemic has led to the test gaining popularity.The IELTS Indicator exam is especially a boon for those who have contracted Covid-19 and cannot make it to the test centre or if the test centre is suspended from conducting the test due to lockdowns. However, it is recommended that the candidates verify with the college that you wish to apply to regarding the IELTS Indicator result.
Checklist for IELTS Indicator
If you have decided to schedule for the IELTS indicator test, it is essential to be prepared with the right equipment using the following checklist:
- Desktop/Laptop
- A well-lit room
- Stable internet connection
- Microphone
- Speaker
- Webcam/Front Camera
- Photo ID and passport
- Relevant installations like Safe Exam Browser (SEB), Zoom supported
Note that the IELTS indicator test is not supported via smartphone or tablet.
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Key Features of IELTS Indicator 2022
Wondering what the significant characteristics of the IELTS indicator are? Take a close look at the following table :
| Basis | IELTS indicator feature |
| Applicability | Only for IELTS Academic and not for IELTS General Training |
| Price | The IELTS Indicator fee is $149 (USD) |
| Frequency | Held online once a week |
| Minimum age bar | Minimum 18 years (for 16-17 years, with consent from parent/guardian, Speaking session to be taken with adult supervision) |
| ID and passport | Verify with ID during registration and validate with your passport during the Speaking Test |
| Format |
|
| Duration |
|
| Breaks | No pause between sessions, to be taken in one go for 2 hours 45 minutes. |
| Score/ Result | IELTS Indicator result is notified within 3-7 days via email. Marking system is the same as the IELTS Academic test. |
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How does the IELTS Indicator work?
The format, content, structure, timing, and scoring system of the IELTS indicator test are precisely the same as the IELTS Academic Test. However, the exam is proctored using robust software and techniques to prevent cheating and uphold the high standards of the exam.The only difference is the IELTS Indicator test, which ultimately works online at the comfort of where you are. Let’s understand how the IELTS Indicator work,:
- The Speaking section is conducted on Zoom, which may be taken before/after Listening, Reading, and Writing, scheduled on the same/different day. It evaluates speaking proficiency on a real-time basis.
- The other sections (Listening, Reading, and Writing) can be navigated back and forth. However, all the sections are to be taken in one sitting, without a break.
Before the IELTS indicator exam, it is advised to check the internet connection speed for reliability towards an uninterrupted exam experience. A patchy internet connection can result in a loss of test time.
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Registration for IELTS Indicator
To enroll for the IELTS indicator exam, register and book a slot for the exam on the IELTS Indicator Booking page hosted by IDP or IELTS. Here is a step-by-step guide on booking an IELTS Indicator test:
- Log on to the website and ensure that you have everything listed under the ‘IELTS Indicator checklist.’
- After clicking on ‘Book Now,’ you will be asked to choose the country to take the test.
- Choose a slot for the exam and click on ‘Create Account’ if you are a new user. You may log in if you have an existing account.
- Fill in all required details and attach all required documents.
- You will then be redirected to the payment page.
- You will receive a booking confirmation after completing the payment.
Test Structure and Format of IELTS Indicator
The test structure of the IELTS Indicator exam and IELTS Academic exam is the same, yet there are specific differences to be noted as follows :
| Basis | Structure and Format of IELTS Indicator |
| Section navigation | Navigation enabled between Listening, Reading & Writing sections (within the time limit). Candidates can go back to previous questions |
| Flag/Review Answers | Not available |
| Reset answers | Handy tool for Listening and Reading sections to reset answers for a particular question |
| Passage and Questions Display | For reading and writing sections: Prompts are displayed on the left, questions are displayed on the right |
| Timer | Time left for each section notified on the top of the screen |
| Listening audio | Automatically played and continued throughout its 4 parts, questions to be read and answered simultaneously |
Acceptability of IELTS Indicator
Universities and colleges abroad accept IELTS Indicator scores, if and only if the candidate couldn’t make it to the test centre, as a consequence of :
- Testing positive for COVID-19
- Test centre suspension due to Covid-19 lockdowns
However, it is essential to verify with the educational institution you are applying to regarding the IELTS Indicator score. Another vital thing to remember is that the IELTS Indicator test can only be taken by candidates aiming at studying abroad. Those looking to immigrate cannot take the IELTS Indicator test.If you are hard hit by Covid-19 and don’t wish to miss your chance to secure admission to a foreign university, the IELTS Indicator test is the best solution. However, it is still recommended to check if the IELTS Indicator result is accepted at your dream college/university.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the IELTS Indicator test reliable?
Ans: The IELTS Indicator exam’s format, structure, and scoring are the same as the IELTS exam except for taking it from home. Hence, it is dependable, credible, reliable, and fair. It’s essential to verify its acceptability by the desired educational institution you are applying for.
2. Is the IELTS indicator accepted by the universities?
Ans: The IELTS Indicator test is not accepted by all the universities and candidates are advised to check with their prospective university if the IELTS indicator scores are accepted by them.
3. Can I take the IELTS Indicator test?
Ans: Any person hit by the COVID-19 pandemic which has tested positive or lives in a city hit by lockdowns can take the IELTS Indicator test.
4. Is the IELTS Indicator cheaper than the IELTS Academic test?
Ans: Yes, the IELTS Indicator test costs $149, while the IELTS Academic test costs $215-$250.
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