Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
Where the online version counts
LanguageCert's Academic page says that for a degree-level course at a UK Higher Education Institution you can take LanguageCert Academic at a test centre or online, and that the test centre is the only option for Australian visa purposes. Australia's Department of Home Affairs names LanguageCert Academic Online among the at-home tests it does not accept (Home Affairs).
| Purpose | Online at home? | Source |
|---|---|---|
| UK university, degree level or above | Yes, per LanguageCert; check with the university | LanguageCert |
| UK visa needing a SELT | No; use LanguageCert Academic SELT at a UKVI centre | LanguageCert |
| Australian visa | No; test centre only | Home Affairs |
Equipment you need
Only laptops are allowed; desktop computers are not. The laptop needs Windows 10 or 11 (not the S editions) or macOS High Sierra 10.13 or later, a dual-core 2.4 GHz processor or faster and a built-in webcam. You also need a wired headset with a built-in microphone; wireless headsets and external microphones are not allowed (LanguageCert online guidelines).
Your smartphone, running Android 10 or later or iOS 17 or later, is used for ID checks and as a second camera through the ExamShield Mobile app. It must be at least 70% charged to connect, and you cannot connect below 25% even while charging (LanguageCert).
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Room and ID rules
The room must be private, with no open spaces or glass walls, and have one door that closes and is visible on your webcam. It must be well lit, with the light not pointing at the webcam. Only one sheet of plain paper and a pencil are allowed, and only for the speaking exam; no extra devices such as smartwatches or extra monitors (LanguageCert).
For the online Academic test, only a valid passport is accepted, and the details in your candidate profile must match it exactly. You photograph it and scan its chip with the app. Log in at least 10 minutes early. You can reschedule free up to 48 hours before the test; later changes cost a fee (LanguageCert).
Rules and fees change. Check the test owner's own page for your country before you book or pay. This guide is general information, not official advice from the test owner.
Frequently asked questions
Is LanguageCert Academic Online accepted for Australian visas?+
No. Home Affairs lists LanguageCert Academic Online among the at-home tests it does not accept; take it at a test centre.
Can I use a desktop computer for LanguageCert online?+
No. Only laptops with a built-in webcam are permitted.
Can I use AirPods or another wireless headset?+
No. You need a wired headset with a built-in microphone.
What ID do I need for LanguageCert Academic online?+
A valid passport. It is the only ID accepted for the online Academic test.
Can I take notes in the online test?+
Only one sheet of plain paper and a pencil, and only for the speaking exam.
Keep reading
Related
- LanguageCert Academic vs Academic SELT
- LanguageCert Academic for Australia
- LanguageCert exam fee 2026
- LanguageCert to IELTS
- All 3112 guides
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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