Rules, comparisons and data

What are the IELTS test-day rules for candidates under 18?

Extra paperwork and a chaperone. Under-18s need written parent or guardian consent to book. IDP India says that if it does not receive a valid ID for the parent or guardian by test day, the minor cannot sit, with 75% of the fee refunded. Minors are accompanied by a chaperone in face-to-face Speaking tests. Parents cannot wait inside, and IELTS Online is for 18 and over only.
  • 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

Booking and ID

IDP says anyone under 18 must supply written consent from a parent or guardian to book (IDP). IDP India adds that if a valid identity document of the parent or lawful guardian is not received on or before test day, the minor will not be allowed to sit, and 75% of the fee is refunded (IDP India FAQ).

RuleSource
Written parent or guardian consent to bookIDP
Parent or guardian ID received by test day, or no test (75% refund)IDP India
Chaperone in face-to-face Speaking; opting out no longer possibleIDP India
No chaperone needed in Video Call SpeakingIDP India
Family members cannot enter the test roomIDP Australia
IELTS Online: 18 and over onlyielts.org

The Speaking test chaperone

IDP India says all minor test takers are accompanied by a chaperone during face-to-face Speaking tests, and the option to test without one is no longer available. A chaperone is not required for Video Call Speaking (VCS) tests (IDP India FAQ).

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.

Where parents wait

IDP Australia says only test takers and staff may enter the test venue during testing; a family member collecting you must wait outside (IDP Australia). IELTS Online is available only to people aged 18 and above (ielts.org). For the minimum age and who can take IELTS at all, see our eligibility guide.

Frequently asked questions

Can a parent sit in the IELTS Speaking test with their child?+

No. IDP India says minors are accompanied by a chaperone in face-to-face Speaking, and IDP Australia says family members cannot enter the test room.

What documents does a minor need for IELTS in India?+

Their own valid passport, plus written parental consent and a parent or guardian's valid ID, which IDP India must receive by test day.

What if IDP India does not get my parent's ID in time?+

The minor cannot sit the test, and IDP India refunds 75% of the fee.

Can a 16-year-old take IELTS Online?+

No. IELTS Online is for test takers aged 18 and above.

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