Can deaf or hearing-impaired candidates take IELTS?

Instead of a recording, the supervisor reads the material aloud, twice, stopping during the second reading so you can write. ielts.org says it may suit you if recorded sound is challenging, if you can lip-read English, or if you combine hearing and lip-reading. Practise with sample papers first; some centres let you practise lip-reading with the supervisor (ielts.org). IDP India asks for six weeks' notice (IDP India).

If the arrangements are not enough, for example if lip-reading is not feasible, you can apply before the test for exemption from one or two components. The missing band is calculated from the average of your other bands and used in your overall score, and the TRF carries a statement that the band was notionalised to accommodate an approved exemption (ielts.org).

Before choosing exemption, check that your university, employer or visa authority accepts a TRF with a notionalised band. 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.