IELTS Indicator: All About The New IELTS Test

Due to the Covid 19 global pandemic, the schedule for IELTS tests across the world has been unpredictable, to say the least. A number of test centres have shut down, while some centres have reduced the number of tests that they offer. If these issues have delayed your plans to study abroad, then you should probably consider taking the new IELTS indicator test. The owners of the exam (the University of Cambridge ESOL, the British Council, and IDP Education Australia) have recently introduced the IELTS indicator test as a stand-in for an actual IELTS exam test result. The IELTS Indicator test has also been made available in Singapore. Read on to find out more about this new home-based test and how it can serve as a replacement for a regular IELTS test score

What Is The IELTS Indicator Test?

The IELTS indicator test is an online IELTS test that you can take from the comfort of your own home. The test can be taken on a laptop or PC and is very similar in structure to the computer delivered IELTS test. The same four skills of listening, reading, writing, and speaking are assessed. The timings are also very similar to the computer delivered IELTS tests. You will not be given any extra time for any component of the test and you will not be allowed to pause or take a break at any point during the test.

What Do You Need To Take The New Test

a stable internet connection
a pc that meets the requirements of the test and a suitable microphone and webcam that meets the requirements necessary for taking the test.
a good quality pair of headphones that the audio quality during both the listening and speaking sections of the test is up to par.
a place to take the test, where you can be guaranteed that there will be no interruptions or distractions.

Why Do You Need To Take The IELTS Indicator Test?

At the moment the IELTS indicator test is available in countries where regular IELTS testing has been postponed. It is a temporary solution for the problems caused by the pandemic and is perfect for those students who need to provide IELTS scores in order to secure admission to their chosen universities.

In addition to this it is also the cheapest IELTS test option at the moment, costing as little as 149 dollars

How Can You Register For The IELTS Indicator Test

You can find a list of both countries that offer regular IELTS tests and IELTS indicator tests on the official IELTS website. The booking procedure is very similar to that of a regular IELTS test and you can pay using a debit or credit card

The test is only available in the Academic format, and you must make sure that your test scores will be accepted by your chosen institutions, since not all universities accept IELTS indicator scores as a replacement for an actual IELTS test score. Your results will be available after a week of taking the test.

How Can You Prepare For The IELTS Indicator Test

The test is exactly the same as the computer-delivered test. Therefore, students can use the same practice materials and resources, such as mock tests and model answers to prepare for this new version of the test.

Hopefully by now you have a better idea about whether the IELTS indicator test is a good fit for you. If you feel that you are unsure of how to move forward with your IELTS indicator preparation, then you probably need to consult with a trained IELTS professional. From my point of view, opting for paid coaching classes is your best bet at acing the exam. The reasoning behind this is simple, only an IELTS professional teacher can guide you and offer you valuable feedback on your weak areas, and such courses often includes personalized coaching, and unique preparation and practice materials developed by certified English language experts.