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What to Carry for IELTS Exam? Important Documents Checklist

Everything you need to carry for your IELTS exam, including essential documents, allowed stationery and items to avoid for a smooth and stress-free test day.

authorImageSupriya Shrivastava3 Oct, 2025
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What to Carry for IELTS Exam

Preparing for the IELTS exam involves more than just studying English being fully prepared with the right items on test day is equally important. Knowing what to carry for IELTS exam helps ensure a smooth and stress-free experience from registration to completing all sections of the test. This includes essential identification documents, stationery and other items allowed by the test centre, while avoiding prohibited or unnecessary belongings. Being organized and aware of the rules can make a big difference in staying confident and focused throughout the exam.

IELTS Test Day Checklist

Being fully prepared for the IELTS test day can help reduce stress and ensure everything goes smoothly. Here is a checklist of the important items you should carry with you:

  • Valid Passport or National ID

  • Printout of IELTS Test Confirmation Email

  • Stationery Items (pens, pencils, erasers – for paper-based tests)

  • Clear Water Bottle

What to Carry for IELTS Exam

Being well prepared on IELTS test day can help you stay calm and focused. Here is a list of essential items you should carry to the exam centre:

  • Your valid passport or national ID is mandatory. The same ID must be used for all sections of the test, including Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking.

  • For the paper-based IELTS test, you can bring pencils, pens and erasers. For computer-based IELTS, paper and pencils are provided.

  • You may bring your phone but it must be switched off and stored safely in the area designated by the test supervisor.

  • Some centres allow a small, clear, unlabeled water bottle. Check with your test centre beforehand.

IELTS Required Documents

Carrying the correct documents is the most important part of the IELTS test day. These documents are verified multiple times, so make sure you have them ready to avoid any issues:

  1. Only the ID used during registration is valid.

  2. A colour photocopy of the front and back of your passport or ID may be requested.

  3. Print the confirmation email sent after registration. This is checked at the start of the test.

IELTS Prohibited Items

To ensure a fair and secure exam environment, certain items are strictly not allowed inside the IELTS test room. Make sure you avoid bringing these to prevent disqualification or delays:

  • Mobile phones, smartwatches, tablets or calculators.

  • Avoid carrying jewellery or other expensive items.

  •  Apart from water (if allowed), no other food or beverages are permitted.

  • They are not allowed inside the test centre and must wait outside.

Items Allowed in IELTS Exam

While the IELTS exam has strict rules, there are certain items you are allowed to bring to help you feel prepared and comfortable during the test:

  • Stationery – Pens, pencils and erasers (paper-based test)

  • Water Bottle – Clear and unlabeled if permitted by the centre

  • Mobile Phone – Must be switched off and stored safely in a designated area

  • Photocopy of ID – Optional as a backup

IELTS Exam Essential Items

To ensure a smooth and stress-free IELTS test day, there are a few items that are important. Carrying these will help you focus entirely on your exam without any last-minute issues:

  1. Valid Passport or National ID

  2. IELTS Test Confirmation Printout

  3. Pens, Pencils, and Erasers

  4. Clear Water Bottle

  5. Optional Photocopy of ID

What to Carry for IELTS Exam FAQs

What should be the most significant thing to bring to the IELTS exam?

The most significant is your valid passport or national ID, the same ID that you were registered with. It is required for entry and verification in all test sections.

Do I need to carry passport-sized photographs?

No. You usually do not need to bring passport photos. The IELTS test centre takes your photo during registration. Only bring photos if specifically requested by your centre.

Can I carry my mobile phone to the exam?

Yes. You are allowed to carry your mobile phone but it should be turned off and placed in the specific place allocated by the test supervisor.

What stationery items am I allowed to bring?

For paper-based tests, you can carry pens, pencils and erasers. For computer-based tests, paper and pencils are provided. A black or blue ballpoint pen is recommended for writing tasks.

Are there any items that are strictly prohibited?

Yes. Pohibited items include electronic devices (phones, smartwatches, tablets), valuables, food or drinks (except water if allowed) and children or family members.
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