Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
Format by format
The sources do not all describe the same arrangement, because centres differ. Here is what each says.
| Format | How Speaking is delivered |
|---|---|
| IELTS Online (at home) | Online video call with a certified IELTS examiner (ielts.org) |
| IELTS on computer, IDP India | Video Call Speaking (VCS) with a trained examiner (IDP India computer FAQ) |
| IELTS on computer, IDP global FAQ | Face to face with an examiner, before or after the other parts (IDP) |
| All formats | Recorded; a human examiner, not AI |
What VCS means at a centre
IDP India's computer FAQ says the content, scoring and difficulty match the paper test and that Speaking is conducted in VCS mode with a trained IELTS examiner (IDP India). You still sit in the test centre; the examiner joins by video. Its general FAQ also notes that minors are accompanied by a chaperone in face-to-face Speaking tests, but a chaperone is not required for 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.
IELTS Online Speaking
ielts.org says IELTS Online Speaking is conducted via video call with a certified IELTS examiner, is usually held before Listening, Reading and Writing, and lasts 11 to 14 minutes. The Speaking video recording is held for 3 months after the test (ielts.org). IDP's terms say Speaking tests are recorded, and if the recording fails you will have to retake Speaking (IDP terms).
Frequently asked questions
Is IELTS Speaking with a real person or a computer?+
A real, certified examiner in every format, either face to face or by video call.
Is IELTS Speaking online in India?+
IDP India says IELTS on computer Speaking is in Video Call Speaking mode, taken at the test centre with a trained examiner.
Is the IELTS Speaking test recorded?+
Yes. IDP's terms say it is recorded, and you must retake Speaking if the recording fails.
Does a minor need a chaperone in a video call Speaking test?+
IDP India says chaperones accompany minors in face-to-face Speaking but are not required for VCS tests.
Keep reading
Related
- IELTS Speaking test format
- IELTS online vs computer vs paper
- IELTS Speaking band descriptors
- 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.
© 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