Let’s start with the basics.

* WHAT IS THE IELTS INDICATOR TEST?

It is a new test introduced by the British Council to support students who are unable to proceed with their plans to take their actual IELTS test because of Covid 19.

By taking the indicator test, you will receive an indicative score for each section along with an overall indicative score. Indicative scores will help you know how you performed and where you need to improve.

As IELTS Indicator provides an indicative score only, it is not accepted by all organisations. Before you book, be sure to check with your university or educational institution.

It is a computer-based test – which you take safely and securely at HOME. Of course, this is perfect because in lockdown you are unable to go out and often, even if lockdown has been easing where you are, you may not feel totally comfortable going to an exam centre right now. Also, in many countries we have no idea when the centres will reopen and quite possibly you need your results NOW so you can make plans for September 2020, the start of the academic year.

* WHEN AND WHERE? Only available for a limited time.

The Academic IELTS INDICATOR test is only available for a limited time while IELTS testing is currently suspended due to COVID-19. 

One of its aims is to help Educational providers, such as universities who can use IELTS Indicator to help them gauge or measure the English language ability of future students while IELTS testing is suspended. Country availability will continue to be updated in the coming weeks. The test is not available in Mainland China.

Note: we don’t know how long it will be available for but if you think this might suit you get involved now!! Do not miss out on this chance.

* WHO IS IT FOR?

Essentially it is for any test taker seeking to study abroad who needs to continue their application process with their prospective University or educational institution while IELTS testing centres are suspended. This is really relevant, and the timing is great because many applications to Universities are approaching their final deadlines so not only do you NEED to know where you stand but the admission decisions need to be made soon.

IMPORTANT: IELTS Indicator is an Academic test only and has not been developed for immigration purposes. It is currently only intended for university applications and there is no general test indicator.

* WHEN DO I GET MY RESULTS?

The good news is that results are quick. You will receive your results digitally within seven days of completing all sections of the test. Retakes? And if you need to you can retake the test you can. Tests take place once a week while normal testing is suspended. You will receive an indicative score for each part of the test and an overall indicative score as well. This is fantastic as it will be the best chance you have to work out what your strengths are and what you may need to work on – for example if you need to focus on writing then you can get going on that immediately (mention online course!!)

* WHAT DOES IT TEST?

Listening : 30 minutes – 40 questions

Reading : 60 minutes – 40 questions

Writing : 60 minutes – 2 tasks

Speaking: 11 to 14 minutes

3 tasks over Video Call

The Listening, Reading and Writing :  The test covers all four skills just the same as the usual exam, it asks the same kind of questions as IELTS (we have no suggestion that the level is any easier so that is an important thing to note), and it is marked by genuine IELTS examiners so the ...