Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
When you can and cannot leave
From IDP Australia's test-day FAQ. IDP's terms add that you must not leave the test room without the invigilator's permission.
| Moment | Can you leave the room? |
|---|---|
| During the Listening test | No |
| Between sections | No |
| Last 10 minutes of any section | No |
| During Reading or Writing (other times) | Yes, raise your hand; no extra time is given |
| IELTS Online | One 5-minute break, taken between sections, with the proctor's permission |
Why there is no break
ielts.org says Listening, Reading and Writing are done in one session of 2 hours 40 minutes with no breaks between sections, and tells you to go to the toilet before entering the test room (ielts.org). Time spent outside the room comes out of your section time: IDP Australia says test takers who leave for any reason are not given extra time.
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IELTS Online and illness
IELTS Online allows one 5-minute bathroom break during Listening, Reading and Writing, taken between tests, for example after Listening and before Reading. Raise your hand and wait for the proctor; do not leave your desk without permission (ielts.org).
If you feel unwell in a centre, raise your hand and an invigilator will help (IDP Australia). Tell the invigilator on the day if you think illness affected your performance, because IDP's terms say test-delivery complaints must be made before you leave the centre (IDP terms).
Frequently asked questions
Can I go to the toilet during IELTS Listening?+
No. IDP Australia says test takers may not leave the room during the Listening test.
Do I get extra time if I use the toilet in IELTS Reading?+
No. Time out of the room is not added back.
Is there a break between IELTS Reading and Writing?+
No. The three sections run as one 2 hour 40 minute session with no breaks.
Does IELTS Online have a toilet break?+
Yes, one 5-minute break between sections, with the proctor's permission.
Keep reading
Related
Guide updated on 30 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.
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