Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
What IDP offers for free
IDP describes its Prepare hub as a place to find practice tests, masterclasses, podcasts, videos and articles, filtered by test type, skill, band score and test format. The resources below are all linked from it.
| Resource | What it is | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Familiarisation tests | On-screen Listening, Reading and Writing tests in the IELTS on computer format, with answer files for Listening and Reading | IDP |
| Speaking Part 1 practice | A sample Speaking Part 1 task with answers | IDP |
| English self-assessment tool | 20 Reading and Listening questions, an instant score, feedback and preparation tips | IDP |
| IELTS Preparation Guide | A download covering test information, Speaking and Writing assessment criteria, test day and Writing samples with examiner comments | IDP India |
| IELTS by IDP app | Book a test, prepare with articles, webinars and videos, and check results; includes an app-only IELTS Preparation Course | IDP India |
| Podcasts and videos | The IELTS Prepare by IDP video podcast, by skill and test day, plus expert answer videos | IDP |
The self-assessment tool
IDP's English self-assessment tool asks 20 Reading and Listening questions, then gives an instant score, feedback and tips on what to work on. IDP notes that the questions are a shorter version of those in the real test, so treat the result as a starting point for planning rather than a band prediction.
For the real on-screen layout, IDP India also hosts a computer-delivered familiarisation test.
Know your target? Check where you stand
Take a free AI-scored IELTS mock and see your score per skill before you book the real test. Free account, no card.
Take a free mock →Practise before you book: free IELTS mock test, IELTS reading practice, IELTS listening practice and IELTS speaking predictions.
Mock tests and how IDP says to use them
IDP's mock test page says it provides free IELTS preparation and practice resources, and that a practice test should not be treated as an official IELTS result. It advises reviewing each mock before taking another: note the question types you got wrong, look for patterns, revise the strategy, then take another timed test later.
If you will sit IELTS on computer, IDP suggests practising the on-screen experience as well as the questions. Free practice from the British Council and ielts.org is covered in official IELTS practice tests.
Frequently asked questions
Is IDP's IELTS preparation free?+
The Prepare hub, familiarisation tests, self-assessment tool, preparation guide, podcasts, videos and the IELTS by IDP app are free to use.
How many questions are in IDP's self-assessment tool?+
20 Reading and Listening questions. You get an instant score, feedback and preparation tips.
Does IDP's familiarisation test give a band score?+
No. IDP publishes answer files for Listening and Reading so you can check yourself, but no practice test gives an official score.
Do I need to book with IDP to use these resources?+
No. The resources above are open online. Booking with IDP adds a free trial of a Macquarie University course at participating centres.
Keep reading
Related
- Free IELTS course when you book with IDP
- Official IELTS practice tests
- IDP vs British Council for IELTS
- Free IELTS mock test with band score
- 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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