What is the IELTS Indicator Test?

With IELTS testing limited or suspended in certain countries to ensure the safety of test-takers and IELTS examiners during COVID-19, the IELTS Indicator test was developed to ensure that as many students as possible can move forward with their plans to study abroad. 

The original IELTS Academic test gauges conversational English language proficiency and is an admission requirement for many English-speaking post-secondary institutions. IELTS Indicator follows the same standards, format, and timing as the original IELTS Academic test, but is completed by the test-taker online from home.

An Indicative Score

IELTS Indicator is not a substitute for the standard in-person IELTS Academic test and is an interim test designed to provide an indicative score only. While IELTS Indicator is not universally accepted, the good news is that many schools are allowing it to fulfill a student’s English language proficiency requirement.

We have included a list below highlighting ApplyBoard partner schools that accept IELTS Indicator. However, you should consult your ApplyBoard Representative for the most up-to-date information to determine whether the school(s) you’re applying to accept IELTS Indicator.

You may be required to take the in-person IELTS Academic test when testing centres reopen.

Read: “5 Best IELTS Preparation Books for International Students”

IELTS Indicator Test Format

As previously mentioned, IELTS Indicator follows the format of the standard IELTS Academic test and is divided into the same four sections:

Listening

• 30 minutes 
• 40 questions 

Reading

• 60 minutes
• 40 questions 

Writing

• 60 minutes
• 20 tasks 

Speaking

• 11–14 minutes
• 3 tasks over video conferencing

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is IELTS Indicator available?
IELTS Indicator will only be available for a limited time. The online version of the test was created in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and while certain testing centres remain closed.

How often is IELTS Indicator held?
IELTS Indicator is held once a week.

Can I take a break during IELTS Indicator?
No, you will not be permitted to take a break during the 2 hour and 45 minute test. However, the Speaking portion of the test will be completed separately on a video call with an IELTS examiner.

How can I book the IELTS Indicator?
You can book your IELTS Indicator test online on the official IELTS Indicator website.

What if IELTS Indicator isn’t available in my country?
If IELTS Indicator isn’t available in your country, you will have to book the in-person IELTS Academic test.

What do I need to take the IELTS Indicator?
IELTS recommends test-takers have access to the following:

• A reliable internet connection
• A laptop or desktop computer that adheres to the minimum and recommended system requirements
• Speakers and a microphone
• A camera that is turned on for the length of the test
• The photo ID, such as a passport or driver’s license, that you used to register for IELTS Indicator, readily accessible throughout the test

When will I receive my IELTS Indicator results?
You will receive the results of your IELTS Indicator test within seven days. Your results will include an indicative score for each of the four sections and an overall band score.

Discover: “5 Best IELTS Practice Tests for International Students”

ApplyBoard Partner Schools Accepting IELTS Indicator

The following ApplyBoard partner schools across Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom currently accept the IELTS Indicator test:

Canada

• Algonquin College
• British Columbia Institute of Technology
• Cambrian College
• Cape Breton University
• Capilano University
• Carleton University
• Centennial College
• Fanshawe College
• Fairleigh Dickinson University
• Fleming College
• Fulford Academy
• George Brown College
• Georgian College
• Humber College
• International College of Manitoba (ICM)
• Lethbridge College
• MacEwan University
• Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology
• Memorial University of Newfoundland
• Mount Royal University
• Mount Saint Vincent University
• Niagara College
• Red Deer College
• Red River College
• Royal Roads University
• Ryerson University
• Sault College
• Toronto School of Management
• University Canada West
• University of Lethbridge
• University of Manitoba
• University of New Brunswick
• University of Northern British Columbia
• Yukon University

United States

• Ashland University
• California State University East Bay
• Chatham University
• Eastern Washington University
• Embry Riddle Aeronautical University – Daytona Beach Campus
• Husson University
• Kent State University
• Lycoming College
• Montana State University Bozeman
• New York Film Academy
• San Francisco State University
• Southeast Missouri State University
• Suffolk University
• Trine University
• University of Arizona
• University of California, Irvine
• University of Colorado – Denver
• University of Delaware
• University of Idaho
• Western Kentucky University
• Wichita State University
• Wilkes University

United Kingdom

• Bournemouth University
• Coventry University
• Cranfield University
• De Montfort University
• Leeds Beckett University
• London South Bank University
• Middlesex University
• Nottingham Trent University
• Royal Holloway, University of London
• Swansea University
• University of Buckingham
• University of Chichester
• University of Essex
• University of Gloucestershire
• University of Hertfordshire
• The University of Law
• University of Liverpool
• University of Reading
• University of Surrey
• University of the West of England
• York St John University

Haven’t taken an English Language Proficiency (ELP) test? Explore schools that allow you to submit ELP test scores later.