IELTS Special requirements; www.ielts.org

IELTS test centers make every effort to make arrangements for test takers with accessibility requirements. In order to ensure that the language ability of all test takers is assessed fairly and objectively, IELTS provides a comprehensive service for test takers who have special requirements, including specific learning difficulties, hearing difficulties and visual difficulties, medical conditions or infant feeding.

If you require special arrangements to be made, e.g. extra time or a modified version of IELTS, you must give the test centre six weeks’ notice.

Special arrangements include the following:

• Extra time for medical conditions or infant feeding
• Braille papers
• Special Listening CD with necessary stops and pauses
• Lip-reading version of the Listening test
• Enlarged print or Speaking task cards in Braille.

• Facilitate access to the test
• Provide a comfortable testing environment
• Ensure fair assessment of language skills

• Visual Impairments: Large print test papers, Braille papers, or use of a reader or scribe.
• Hearing Impairments: Use of a hearing aid, provision of extra time, or alternative listening arrangements.
• Physical Disabilities: Assistance with mobility, provision of wheelchair access, or adapted rooms.
• Learning Disabilities: Extra time, use of a computer for writing tasks, or a separate room.
• Medical Conditions: Frequent breaks, medical equipment access, or modified seating arrangements.

• Use of a scribe or computer for writing
• Additional time to complete the test

• Special seating or additional breaks may be arranged for candidates who are very young or elderly.

• Medical or Professional Evidence: A report from a qualified medical practitioner, psychologist, or relevant specialist describing the condition and recommended accommodations.
• Identification: Valid photo ID matching the identification used for the test registration.

• Notify your chosen IELTS test center as soon as possible—preferably at the time of booking.
• Early notification helps the test center arrange necessary accommodations without delays.

• Provide all relevant medical or professional reports.
• Complete any additional forms required by the test center.

• The test center will review your request and consult with IELTS administrators.
• You will receive confirmation of approved accommodations and specific instructions.

• Some versions of IELTS, such as the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) tests, also offer accommodations for special needs.
• Life Skills tests, designed for speaking and listening only, may have additional provisions based on candidates’ circumstances.

• Candidates with special needs may benefit from the computer-delivered IELTS option, which can provide features like adjustable font sizes and more ergonomic typing.

• Extra Time: Most accommodations involve additional time for test sections, usually 25% more.
• Separate Rooms: Candidates may be tested in a quieter or separate room to reduce distractions.
• Scribe or Reader: Professional assistance may be provided for writing or reading sections.
• Use of Assistive Devices: Use of approved assistive technology is allowed but must be disclosed in advance.
• No Impact on Scores: Special accommodations aim to provide equal access and do not affect the scoring criteria.

• Bring any special equipment approved for use during the test (e.g., hearing aids).
• Carry all identification documents as specified.
• Arrive early to allow for any additional check-in procedures.

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• Each test center has a dedicated officer or contact person for handling special requirements.
• Candidates are encouraged to communicate openly about their needs to receive the best possible support.

Speaking Ielts Criteria

The IELTS Speaking test is assessed by certified examiners using four specific criteria. Each criterion is weighted equally, contributing to your final band score (0 to 9).

Understanding these pillars is essential for tailoring your practice and focusing your efforts effectively.

The Four Assessment Criteria

1. Fluency and Coherence

This measures your ability to speak at a natural pace without excessive hesitation, self-correction, or repetition.

• Fluency: Focuses on your speech rate and continuity. You should aim for a flow that is not constantly interrupted by long pauses while searching for words.

• Coherence: Relates to how well you link your ideas. Use discourse markers (e.g., “furthermore,” “however,” “as a result”) and logical sequencing to ensure your answers are easy for the examiner to follow.

2. Lexical Resource

This assesses the range and precision of your vocabulary.

• Range: Avoid repeating the same words. Use synonyms and a wider variety of vocabulary related to the topic.

• Precision: Use words that accurately convey your intended meaning.

• Collocation & Idioms: Demonstrate your ability to use words that naturally “go together” and incorporate idiomatic expressions appropriately to sound more like a native speaker.

• Paraphrasing: If you forget a specific word, don’t stop. Use your vocabulary to describe the concept in a different way.

3. Grammatical Range and Accuracy

Examiners look for both the variety of your sentence structures and the correctness of your grammar.

• Range: Don’t stick to simple sentences. Incorporate complex structures, such as subordinate clauses, passive voice, and different verb tenses (e.g., perfect or continuous aspects).

• Accuracy: Aim for a low “error density.” While minor slips are expected, try to ensure your grammatical errors do not impede the examiner’s ability to understand your message.

4. Pronunciation

This is not about having a “native-like” accent; it is about being easily understood.

• Intelligibility: Can the listener understand you without effort?

• Phonological Features: Use features like chunking (grouping words into meaningful segments), rhythm, stress (word and sentence stress to emphasize meaning), and intonation (using pitch to show emotion or intent).

• Connected Speech: Focus on how sounds link together when you speak at a normal rate.

Quick Reference: Scoring Focus

Note: The examiner listens for the best version of your English. Being nervous is normal, but try to speak confidently and clearly to ensure all your hard work in these four areas is showcased.

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