IELTS Indicator Test 2022: Overview, Key Features & Must Know Facts

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. 

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	Listening – 4 passages with 10 questions each  Reading – 3 academic passages with total of 40 questions  Writing – 2 tasks  Speaking – interview, long turn and discussion
Duration	Listening – 30 minutes  Reading – 60 minutes  Writing – 60 minutes  Speaking – 11-14 minutes
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.

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.

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.