Rules, comparisons and data

What happens if you are caught cheating in IELTS?

You lose the result and the fee, and possibly more. IDP's IELTS terms say a candidate engaging in malpractice will not be allowed to finish the test, will not receive a result and will not get a refund. They may be banned from future tests, face legal action and be reported to regulators and visa authorities. A result already issued can be cancelled later.
  • Guide updated · 30 October 2026
  • 3 sections
  • IELTS
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Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026

What counts as malpractice

IDP's terms list, among other things: trying to cheat in any way, including using notes; helping another candidate cheat; impersonating someone or having someone sit for you; copying another candidate's work; disrupting the test; reproducing any part of the test in any medium; and attempting to alter the data on a Test Report Form. Keeping a phone or other electronic device with you also breaks the rules: IDP says you will be disqualified (IDP).

The consequences

All from IDP's published terms. If someone takes the test in your place, both of you can be prosecuted (IDP terms).

ConsequenceDetail
Test stoppedNot allowed to complete the test
No resultNo IELTS result issued
No refundTest fee kept
BanMay be banned; you are told the length of the ban
Booking during a banNo result and no refund
ReportingDetails may go to universities, visa and regulatory authorities
Later discoveryAn issued result may be cancelled

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Scams selling results

ielts.org warns test takers not to trust anyone trying to sell IELTS results or test papers, and says the IELTS partners work with migration and law enforcement agencies to detect cheating and, where appropriate, take legal action (ielts.org). Organisations check scores against the official record and the photo taken on test day, so a bought or edited result will not match.

Frequently asked questions

Can you be banned from IELTS?+

Yes. IDP's terms say malpractice can lead to a ban, and you are notified of its length.

What happens if my phone is found during IELTS?+

IDP says keeping a phone or electronic device with you means disqualification. The terms also say breaches mean no result and no refund.

Can IELTS cancel a result after it is issued?+

Yes. The terms say an issued result may be cancelled if an irregularity or malpractice is found.

Is it illegal to have someone take IELTS for me?+

IDP's terms say both you and the impersonator are liable to prosecution, and the authorities are informed.

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.

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