Rules, comparisons and data

Can blind or visually impaired candidates take IELTS?

Yes. ielts.org offers Braille papers, Modified Large Print papers, at least 25% extra time, supervised breaks, a reader or scribe, your own assistive technology, and Speaking task cards in large print, Braille or electronic form. Some of this takes up to six weeks to set up, so contact your test centre early. Approved arrangements do not change how your answers are marked.
  • Guide updated · 30 October 2026
  • 3 sections
  • IELTS
Take a free mock →Read the guide

Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026

What you can ask for

From ielts.org's visual impairment section (ielts.org). All requests need approval and your centre may ask for a medical certificate.

ArrangementDetail
Extra timeAt least 25%; more may be given, though ielts.org warns too much can affect stamina
Test over two daysPossible if you are entitled to 100% extra time
Braille papersStandard English Braille or Unified English Braille, contracted (Grade 2) or uncontracted (Grade 1)
Modified Large PrintA4 papers; graphs and diagrams adapted, e.g. given as a table. IDP India says 18-point bold
ReaderReads and rereads questions; cannot explain them
Writing answersElectronic Braille keyboard, computer without spellcheck, or a scribe
SpeakingExtra time, task card in enlarged print, Braille, or electronic for screen readers

Readers and scribes: what to practise

A reader will not explain questions or give advice, but can read back your answers. If someone writes for you, you will be asked to spell certain words and must give all punctuation, so ielts.org suggests practising beforehand, for example spelling out the alphabet (ielts.org). IDP India adds that in Reading, a reader generally cannot read the texts aloud and screen-reading software is usually not allowed for them (IDP India).

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.

Practice materials

ielts.org publishes modified sample papers and says Braille users can ask their test centre for Braille sample tests, including Speaking task cards; tell the centre which type of Braille you need (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

Is IELTS available in Braille?+

Yes, in Standard English Braille or Unified English Braille, contracted or uncontracted.

How much extra time do visually impaired candidates get in IELTS?+

At least 25%, and more can be approved. With 100% extra time, the test can be split over two days.

Can I use a screen reader in IELTS?+

To read back your own answers, yes, with spellcheck and grammar tools off. IDP India says it is usually not allowed for the Reading texts.

How far ahead should I ask for Braille papers?+

Contact the centre as early as possible; ielts.org says some arrangements take six weeks.

Keep reading

Related

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.

© 2026 BandLadder. Written and checked by the BandLadder team. You may quote or cite this page with credit to BandLadder and a link to it; republishing it in full needs our written permission. Content use policy

Take a free mock