How long is the IELTS test?

Academic and General Training take the same time. ielts.org says Listening and Speaking are the same in both, while Reading and Writing differ in content, not length (General Training).

On computer the times are the same: IDP Australia lists the Listening, Reading and Writing sitting as up to 2 hours 45 minutes and Speaking as 11–14 minutes (IDP Australia). With Writing on Paper you take the test on computer and handwrite the Writing answers in the same 60 minutes (ielts.org). ielts.org's General Training page still lists 10 minutes for transferring Listening answers to an answer sheet on paper, but IELTS says it will stop offering the paper-based test from mid-2026, with timelines varying by market (ielts.org).

IELTS Online at home has the same format and timing, Speaking is usually held first, and you get one 5-minute bathroom break between sections with the proctor's permission (IELTS Online). Compare the options in IELTS Online vs computer vs paper.

Add check-in time. ielts.org gives no fixed arrival time and says to leave enough time to reach the centre without rushing (ielts.org); IDP Australia asks you to arrive at least 30 minutes early to register (IDP Australia), and IDP says check-in varies by venue (IDP).

Listening, Reading and Writing run 2 hours 40 minutes with no breaks, so use the toilet first (ielts.org). IDP says Speaking is just before or just after the other three parts, or at some centres on the same day or up to 7 days before or after your test date (IDP). Your booking confirmation gives your Speaking time. See IELTS test day rules and what to bring to the IELTS test. Rules are applied locally, so check your booking confirmation or ask your test centre if anything here differs from what you were told.