Physics Wallah

IELTS Test Day Advice, Do’s and Dont’s, Things Allowed at Center

IELTS Test Day Advice is the key to performing well on the exam. From carrying the correct documents to managing time effectively, staying calm, and following instructions, every detail matters. Avoid last-minute stress and maximize your score with these essential test-day tips.
authorImageSilki Joshi5 Apr, 2025
Share

Share

IELTS Test Day Advice

IELTS Test Day Advice: Preparation for the IELTS exam includes a long process, including understanding IELTS exam patterns, and question types, preparation of daily schedule, taking mock tests regularly, and many more. However, after weeks of preparation, many prepared candidates can feel nervous on IELTS test day which can aggravate their overall performance in the IELTS test. The main question is What is the key to success? Staying calm, being prepared for different situations, following instructions, carrying necessary documents, taking good rest, etc, are among the key strategies that can help you better perform on the test day. In this guide, we have included some strategies to help you better concentrate on the test. 

IELTS Test Day Advice

Each student has their own exam strategies, schedule, and challenges. Therefore, stressing on any particular pattern may not be logical for many candidates. However, feeling nervous before a test is completely natural. However, with a strong mindset and the necessary precautions, anyone can perform better on the test. Here are some important tips and strategies that can help students stay confident on the test day.

Be Prepared

Be Prepared! Always be ready to tackle any situation. Candidates must develop a strong mindset to deal with various challenges on the test day. The preparation for the test day starts even before you arrive at the test centre. Follow these steps to avoid unnecessary stress:

  • Check the exam center and IELTS exam dates carefully in advance.

  • Plan your travel beforehand to avoid last-minute delays.

  • Try to reach the IELTS test centers at least 1-2 hours before the actual test time.

  • Carry the necessary identification document to enter the test venue. 

  • Carry a water bottle, food, and medicine for any emergencies. 

Stay Calm and Focused

Feeling nervous on the test day is natural. However, try to calm yourself to avoid any troubles. Remember, nervousness can negatively affect your performance. Follow the below-mentioned advice to avoid nervousness: 

  • Take deep breaths if you start feeling anxious.

  • Read every question carefully before answering.

  • Do not rush; focus on clarity and accuracy.

Follow the Instructions Carefully

Following the instructions is very important for all aspirants. Disobedience of the instructions can lead to the cancellation of your candidature. 

  • Read the IELTS rules and regulations before starting the test.

  • Do not carry your personal belongings inside the test room. Leave them outside along with your mobile phone.

  • Do not carry any food items inside the test room. Candidates can carry water in a clear bottle.

  • Listen to the supervisor’s instructions carefully and follow them strictly.

Managing Time Effectively

Time management plays a key role in the IELTS test day. Non-adherence to the time can be harmful for candidates.

  • Segregation of time is very important to complete all the test questions within the given time limit. 

  • Follow the time on the screen to manage your time effectively.

  • Try to attempt easy questions in the beginning, as long questions may take time. 

  • Allocate enough time for each section to attempt all questions.

Identity Verification

Candidates are required to carry their identity documents to enter the test venue. Not carrying the necessary documents will result in denied entry and disqualification from the test. 

Special Arrangements

IDP IELTS also offers special accommodations to specially abled candidates. In such cases, check all the details before the test day to avoid any challenging circumstances. 

Do’s and Don’ts for the IELTS Test Day 

To help you stay focused and avoid unnecessary mistakes, it's important to know what you should and shouldn't do at the test center. Follow these essential do’s and don’ts to ensure a hassle-free IELTS experience.

Do’s

Don’ts

Reach the test center at least 1–2 hours before the reporting time.

Don’t be late as latecomers may not be allowed to take the test.

Carry valid ID proof same ID used during registration.

Don’t bring unauthorized items such as Mobile phones, notes, books, or electronic devices.

Dress comfortably.

Don’t wear watches as many test centers prohibit both digital and analog watches.

Listen carefully to the instructions throughout the test.

Don’t ignore instructions to avoid disqualification.

Bring essential stationery – Pens, pencils, erasers, and sharpeners (for paper-based test).

Don’t bring correction fluid, highlighters, or sticky notes.

Use the restroom before the test.

Don’t leave your seat during the test without permission.

Check your headphones for the Listening section in computer-based tests.

Don’t talk or attempt to communicate with other test-takers.

Stay calm and focused to manage your time wisely during each section.

Don’t panic if you miss a question. Move on and return to it if time allows.

List of Things to Carry for IELTS Test Day

To avoid any last-minute stress, make sure you carry the following essential items on your IELTS test day:

Item

Details

Valid ID (Passport/National ID)

Bring the same ID used during registration for entry.

IELTS Admit Card (if applicable)

Some test centers may require an admit card to allow students.

Photographs (if required)

For facial identification.

Stationery (for paper-based test only)

HB pencils, erasers, and sharpeners. Pens are not allowed for listening and reading sections.

Water Bottle

A transparent bottle without any labels.

Face Mask

Not necessary for every test centre. 

Medical Items

Inhalers, prescription medicines, etc.

After completing the test wait for the invigilator to give permission to leave the test room. In case of any inconvenience, inform the invigilator immediately. For any particular complaints, candidates are recommended to fill out the Complaint Form at the earliest opportunity. By following these test-day guidelines, you can reduce stress and maximize your IELTS band score.

IELTS Reading Band Score IELTS Listening Band Score
IELTS Speaking Band Score IELTS Writing Band Score

Guidance of PW IELTS

Physics Wallah offers multiple online IELTS courses for all students. Follow the IELTS pages to better prepare for the exam.

What is IELTS Exam? Documents Required for IELTS Registration
IELTS exam eligibility requirements IELTS Exam Fees
IELTS test results IELTS Exam Pattern

IELTS Test Day Advice FAQs

What should I do on the day of my IELTS exam?

Arrive at the test center on time, preferably 30-45 minutes early, to avoid any last-minute stress. Bring the same ID you used during registration, as it is mandatory for entry. Eat a healthy meal beforehand, as no food is allowed inside the test hall. Stay calm and focused while answering questions, ensuring you manage your time effectively. Lastly, listen carefully to instructions from the test supervisor to avoid any mistakes and follow the test guidelines properly.

Is a 7.5 IELTS score easy?

A 7.5 IELTS score is considered a high score, indicating strong English proficiency. However, achieving it depends on your preparation, familiarity with the test format, and language skills. With proper practice, it is attainable but not necessarily easy.

What to wear on IELTS test day?

Wear comfortable, casual clothing that allows you to sit for a long time without discomfort. Avoid heavy accessories or tight outfits. Since test centers may be air-conditioned, carrying a light jacket is a good idea.

Can I wear a watch during IELTS?

No, watches are not allowed inside the test room. Every test center has a wall clock, and online test-takers have a timer on the screen to track time.
Popup Close ImagePopup Open Image
Talk to a counsellorHave doubts? Our support team will be happy to assist you!
Popup Image
Join 15 Million students on the app today!
Point IconLive & recorded classes available at ease
Point IconDashboard for progress tracking
Point IconMillions of practice questions at your fingertips
Download ButtonDownload Button
Banner Image
Banner Image
Free Learning Resources
Know about Physics Wallah
Physics Wallah is an Indian edtech platform that provides accessible & comprehensive learning experiences to students from Class 6th to postgraduate level. We also provide extensive NCERT solutions, sample paper, NEET, JEE Mains, BITSAT previous year papers & more such resources to students. Physics Wallah also caters to over 3.5 million registered students and over 78 lakh+ Youtube subscribers with 4.8 rating on its app.
We Stand Out because
We provide students with intensive courses with India’s qualified & experienced faculties & mentors. PW strives to make the learning experience comprehensive and accessible for students of all sections of society. We believe in empowering every single student who couldn't dream of a good career in engineering and medical field earlier.
Our Key Focus Areas
Physics Wallah's main focus is to make the learning experience as economical as possible for all students. With our affordable courses like Lakshya, Udaan and Arjuna and many others, we have been able to provide a platform for lakhs of aspirants. From providing Chemistry, Maths, Physics formula to giving e-books of eminent authors like RD Sharma, RS Aggarwal and Lakhmir Singh, PW focuses on every single student's need for preparation.
What Makes Us Different
Physics Wallah strives to develop a comprehensive pedagogical structure for students, where they get a state-of-the-art learning experience with study material and resources. Apart from catering students preparing for JEE Mains and NEET, PW also provides study material for each state board like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and others

Copyright © 2025 Physicswallah Limited All rights reserved.