Get Free IELTS Listening Practice Tests with instant Score and Feedback
Find free, official IELTS Listening practice tests with instant scores and feedback below.
The Listening test is the same for Academic and General Training. You hear a mix of conversations and monologues (parts 1 & 3 usually dialogues, parts 2 & 4 usually monologues). Recordings are played once only. You must practise to catch information first time. IELTS is jointly owned by the British Council, IDP Education (IDP: IELTS Australia) and Cambridge University Press & Assessment.
How to register for IELTS IDP vs British Council
Below are easy, step-by-step instructions for registering with IDP and with the British Council, plus important things to watch out for.
Quick differences
- Both organisations run official IELTS tests (Academic, General Training) and offer paper or computer formats (and in some places an IELTS Online option).
- Booking process and local rules (ID accepted, fees, cancellation windows) vary by country and test centre, so always confirm on your local IDP or British Council test-centre page.
Registering with IELTS IDP step by step
- Decide which test you need: Academic or General Training (and whether you need IELTS for UKVI/occupational).
- Create an account on the IDP country site (or go to your local IDP test centre).
- Choose format and date: pick paper or computer, then a city/centre and an available test date/time.
- Upload ID: you must upload a clear copy/photo of the same ID you will bring on test day (usually passport; some centres accept national ID for local candidates).
- Pay the fee online (card/other local methods) or at a branch if you choose offline registration.
- Receive confirmation: you’ll get an email with your booking details and candidate number — keep this and the receipt.
Tip: IDP allows in-person/branch booking in many locations if you prefer to pay/submit documents directly.
Registering with the IELTS British Council step by step
- Create an account in the British Council Test Taker Portal (or contact your local British Council office).
- Choose test type & format (Academic/General, paper/computer).
- Select a centre and date from the available options in your area.
- Upload/enter ID details — the ID you use for registration must be the ID you bring on test day (passport or national ID as allowed by the centre).
- Pay online (card) or follow local payment instructions; you will receive confirmation and a candidate number.
Tip: British Council sites often show local test fees and test-day instructions on the booking page for your country.
Important rules & what to bring
- ID must match registration exactly (name, ID number). If you use a passport for booking you must use the passport on test day. If it doesn’t match, you may be refused entry.
- Bring the same ID and your booking confirmation/email. For paper tests bring pencils/eraser (or check what the test centre provides).
IDP & British Council’s cancellation, transfer & refund policy
- Policies differ by country and test type. Common patterns: earlier cancellations often get partial refunds; late cancellations usually receive no refund. Always check the local cancellation policy for exact deadlines and fees.
- British Council and IDP each publish local transfer/cancellation rules (some allow free postponement within certain windows; others charge admin fees).
3 Important notes & common questions
- If you need a specific IDV (e.g., UKVI) — choose the correct test type when booking (UKVI requirement is specific).
- If you’re overseas you must usually register with a passport.
- Want faster results or retake options? Check whether your chosen centre offers computer-based IELTS or special services like One Skill Retake (offered in some locations).