Taking IELTS when you have hearing or speaking difficulties

The IELTS test includes Listening and Speaking sections. If you have hearing or speaking difficulties, we may be able to help you take your IELTS test. Special arrangements can take up to six weeks to make, so please talk to your local test centre as early as possible.

All requests for special requirements are subject to approval.

What will the IELTS test centre do?

The test centre will:

  • ask for full details of your difficulty

  • confirm the deadline for booking your test (this depends on the arrangements you require and is usually up to six weeks before your test)

  • make the arrangements you need to take the test.

If your test centre does not have the equipment or space you need (e.g. a separate room), they will do their best to help you find another test centre that does.   Your centre may also ask you to provide a medical certificate.

What special arrangements can I ask for?

There are lots of different ways that we can help you to take your test. Choose what you need from the FAQ list below.