decorative image: ielts test taker in a speaking exam

What is the IELTS Trial Test?

The IELTS Trial Test is a practice test you can take at an official IELTS test centre.

Taking an IELTS Trial Test is valuable preparation for when you are ready to take an official IELTS test.

The IELTS Trial Test is available for the IELTS Academic and General Training in the Listening, Reading and Writing sections of the test. It is only offered on paper.

Why should you take an IELTS Trial Test?

  • Taking an IELTS Trial Test gives you valuable test day experience. You can take a test at an official test centre under timed test conditions. This will give you more confidence when you are ready to take your test.
  • This is a free offer to prepare for your IELTS test. 
  • The Writing section will be marked by an official IELTS examiner and you will get valuable feedback on your performance. This will help you to understand your current level and where you need to improve. Please note that IELTS Trial Test scores are not official test scores.
  • Your results will be available in about four weeks.

IELTS Trial Tests are currently available at the following dates in Cologne:

  • Saturday 22 February 2025 at 9.30
  • Saturday 22 February 2025 at 13.30

 The test takes approximately three hours. Seats are limited. 

Please note that test takers under the age of 18 need to be registered by a parent or guardian. They also need to complete the Minor Consent Form and send it to ielts.plus@britishcouncil.de

Frequently asked questions

I would like to change my trial test date, what should I do?

Please inform us per email and book the new Trial test date at ielts.plus@britishcouncil.de 

Will there be any other/later dates?

Please check this page for updates.

How do I know if my registration has been received?

You will get an e-mail confirmation within a week. Please check your spam folder too.

Are Trial Tests the same as live IELTS tests?

Yes, but the timings may differ. Listening and Reading may take a bit longer than the real IELTS test.

Is there also a trial speaking test?

No, the IELTS Trial Test consists only of Listening, Reading and Writing.

 

When can I expect to receive my scores?

In about a month.

How will I receive my scores?

Scores will be sent to you via e-mail. It is not a certificate but an indication of what your level in each of the three components may be.

What do my scores mean?

The scores you get on a Trial Test give you an idea of the scores that you might get in a live IELTS test. This is not a guarantee that you will get the same result in a live test. The Trial Test score is not the same as a live IELTS test score and cannot be used for applications. Trial testing gives an indicative band score.

Will my photo be taken on the test day?

No

What types of IDs are accepted?

 

On the day of the trial test, we will register you for by checking your ID. We accept more types of IDs than for “normal” IELTS. It can be any original and valid photographic form of ID (photocopies or electronic copies will not be accepted). Acceptable IDs for Trial Tests are:

  •  Valid Driving Licence
  •  Student ID card (school or university)
  • Residence Permit or Work Permit
  • National ID card
  • Passport

 

When will I received more detailed information about my Trial Test?

You will receive an e-mail approximately two days before the test.

 

Share this