Rules, comparisons and data

Can you take IELTS with a broken arm or other temporary injury?

Yes. ielts.org gives a broken arm as an example of a need covered by access arrangements, which apply to temporary as well as long-term conditions. Options include extra time, supervised breaks, a scribe or a computer. Arrangements can take six weeks, so if the injury happens close to the test, ask your centre at once about arrangements or a transfer to a later date.
  • Guide updated · 30 October 2026
  • 3 sections
  • IELTS
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Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026

Arrangements that can help

ielts.org says access arrangements support people who are disabled temporarily or long-term, and lists having a broken arm as an example (ielts.org). IDP Australia lists these among its free arrangements (IDP Australia).

ArrangementHow it helpsSource
ScribeWrites your answers as you dictate them, including punctuation you giveIDP Australia
Computer or word processorType instead of handwriting; no spellcheck or grammar toolsielts.org
Extra timeMore time to write or restielts.org
Supervised breaksStop and rest alone in another roomielts.org
Answers on separate paperAvoids the answer sheet if filling it in is hardielts.org

If the injury happens just before the test

ielts.org asks for at least six weeks' notice and says all requests need approval, so a last-minute arrangement is not guaranteed (ielts.org). Contact the centre straight away and ask what it can do in time.

If it cannot help, move the test. IDP Australia lets you change your test date once free of charge, even up to the test day, and says that if you are sick and contact the centre on the day, you can change the date at no additional charge (IDP Australia). Under ielts.org's rules, a serious medical condition that stops you attending or performing normally can also qualify for special consideration, applied for up to two calendar days after the test (ielts.org).

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Evidence and marking

Your centre may ask for a medical certificate (ielts.org). With approved arrangements, your answers are marked like everyone else's, so if a scribe writes for you, you will be asked to spell words and give the punctuation. Practise dictating answers before test day. Detailed rules are set locally and can differ by country and test centre, so check your booking confirmation or ask your centre if anything here does not match what you were told.

Frequently asked questions

Can someone write for me in IELTS if I broke my arm?+

You can ask for a scribe. All arrangements need centre approval and some take time to arrange.

Can I postpone IELTS because of an injury?+

Yes, under your centre's transfer rules. IDP Australia allows one free date change, even on the test day.

Do I need a medical certificate for an injury?+

Your centre may ask for one, and it is the usual evidence for special consideration.

Is there a fee for a scribe in IELTS?+

IDP Australia says its special arrangements, including a scribe, are free of charge.

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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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