Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
What each official source says
IDP's IELTS terms list the only items allowed on your desk as your identity document, pencil(s), eraser(s) and a label-free bottle of water (IDP terms). Its test-day FAQ for IELTS on computer adds that the centre provides pens and paper (IDP).
| Format | Stationery |
|---|---|
| IELTS on computer (in a centre) | Centre provides pens and paper (IDP) |
| Bringing your own pencils and erasers | Allowed by IDP Australia, but check at reception first |
| IELTS Online at home | No pen and paper; notes on screen only (ielts.org) |
| Own laptop or keyboard | Not permitted; all equipment is provided (IDP India) |
Bringing your own
IDP Australia says you can bring pencils and erasers, usually centres will provide these, and you should check at reception whether you can take stationery into the room (IDP Australia). Everything else goes in the belongings area. IDP's terms also forbid lending or borrowing anything once the test has started (IDP terms).
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Computer and online tests
On IELTS on computer you type answers; IDP India says no own keyboard or laptop is allowed because the centre supplies all equipment (IDP India). You can write notes on the login details sheet you receive at the start (IDP).
For IELTS Online, ielts.org says you cannot take notes using pen and paper, but you can make notes on screen (ielts.org). 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
Should I bring a pencil to IELTS?+
It is not required. The centre provides pens and paper for IELTS on computer. IDP Australia lets you bring pencils and erasers, but check at reception.
Can I use a pen in IELTS Writing on Paper?+
Use the stationery your centre provides. Check the instructions in your booking confirmation.
Can I bring my own eraser into IELTS?+
IDP Australia allows pencils and erasers subject to a check at reception; IDP's terms list erasers among items allowed on the desk.
Can I use pen and paper in IELTS Online?+
No. ielts.org says IELTS Online allows on-screen notes only.
Keep reading
Related
- IELTS test day rules
- IELTS Writing on Paper explained
- IELTS on computer tools: notes and highlighting
- 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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