Finally, I am done with my IELTS
exam, now I can heave a sigh of relief. I undertook the computer based test
through IDP (official partners of IELTS), as it have been more than a decade
since, I have written an essay on paper with pen. I am more proficient in
typing than writing and the other reason is, my handwriting in illegible.
My LRW( Listening, Reading and
writing) test was on 6th Aug’19, got its schedule immediately, when
I booked for the test on 31st July’19 and by 1st Aug’19
my speaking test schedule (5th Aug) was shared to me through email and sms. But in
order to complete the test booking process, I had to attach scanned copies of
the first and last page of my passport. This can be done either while booking
for the test or later though logging in to IDP website.
On 5th I reached the
venue opted by me for the test, with my passport for the registration process. I
had to finish the registration process first, in order to get inside the waiting
room. Registration was done near the reception area, where my passport was
verified, few details were asked, my finger print was scanned and a pic was clicked.
Once the registration was over, I was asked to deposit all my belongings
comprising of phone, keys, handbags etc in a locker provided by IDP with a
badge number and key. I was permitted to carry only my passport and locker
badge, rest everything was in a safe locker.
After the, I was directed towards
the waiting room, first impression of the room was like, I was entering PVR to watch movie, similar seating
arrangement with water bottles on each seat and a LCD screen displaying test
pattern. After waiting for around 15 mins, I was called in for the test, which
lasted for about 15-20 mins. After that I reached the reception area, to
collect my belongings and left the venue. Both before and after the test my fingerprint
was scanned.
On 6th too, I
deposited my belongings in locker and headed towards the waiting room, where
few other examines like me were waiting.
About 10 mins before the test, we were informed to use restroom, as
during test, its usage is restrictive.
After restroom session, we were informed about the test, then we were directed
to the test room, again finger print was scanned and we were directed towards
our respective seats.
My desk had a big computer with
keyboard (normal keypad not feather touch like we have in laptop) , mouse and
headphone, along with a water bottle,
pencil, sharpener, eraser, 3 sheets of paper and a pen was nicely placed on the
desk. Then I had my first set of instructions, most important among them were,
I should not talk to fellow examine all throughout the test, incase of any
difficulty, I should reach out to invigilators only and check my headphones to
adjust volume. Details about washroom breaks were also shared.
Then instructions were given
about listening test and I was on with the test for the next 32 mins, after the
stipulated time, my answers was automatically saved by the system, same drill was
followed for the remaining 2 tests. For all 3 three test, the timer on my
system notified me, about the time remaining for the test to wind up and there
a clock in the test room too but I preferred system timer for accuracy.
After test, once again my finger
print was scanned and I left the room, but I was allowed only to take my passport and badge out of the room,
remaining items were supposed to be left behind in the room. Then I came to the
reception area, thanked the staff for their support and left the venue.
Before appearing for the test, I
was more scared about the entire process of undertaking the test, than the test
itself, now I feel the test is conducted in highly professional manner under
the guidance of experienced and friendly staff members, they support and guide
us, all through the process. So thought of sharing my experience in a blog for
people to read and get benefited from it.
A note for the readers - Reach
the venue at the time specified in the mail, as staff is strict on timings and
conduct test on time.
