Hawthorn English Language School - Melbourne
Frequently Asked Questions About IELTS
How do I apply to sit the test?
Come in person to the Test Centre to complete an application form bringing with you your passport and 2 current passport size photos (no more than 6 months old) and the test fee.
I don’t have a passport; can I use my driver’s licence?
No. Your original and valid passport is the only acceptable form of identification.

What test module do I need to take?
It is your responsibility to ensure you have selected the correct test module. If you are unsure, you should check with the organisation who has asked you to take the test, what their requirements are.
What can the candidate bring into the examination room?
Only pens, pencils and erasers. Correction fluid must not be used. You must leave anything which you do not need, or which is not allowed, either outside the examination room, or as instructed by the supervisor.
Mobile phones and pagers must be switched off and placed with personal belongings in the area designated by the supervisor. Any candidate who does not switch off their phone/pager, or who retains one in their possession, will be disqualified.


How long will it take for the results to come out?
Your IELTS results are usually sent to your postal address on the 13th day after taking the test. Please be aware that IELTS Australia can delay the release of IELTS results, which could add a significant delay in your results being delivered. The test centres has no control over these delays, and will post you the results as soon as possible.
Can I collect my results from the Hawthorn English Language Centre?
No. The test results will be mailed to your home address. Please do not forget to inform us if you change your address.

How many copies of my test result am I entitled to have?
Candidates are only permitted to have 1 copy of their Test Report Form. Please take care of it, as you cannot get another copy. If a university or institution such as DIAC require a copy of your IELTS test result we can send it directly on your behalf.

What can I do if I am unhappy with my result?

You may apply for an Enquiry on Results (EOR) within 6 weeks of the date you sat the test. The EOR application fee is $176 and the processing time can be up to 8 - 10 weeks. Candidates are eligible for a full refund should the band score increase.



How many times can I take the IELTS test?
You may take the IELTS test as many times as you like.

Can I be tested only on the components that I require?
No. If you wish to re-sit the IELTS test, you must take all 4 components.


What if I need to cancel or postpone my test date?
You may only cancel or postpone your test if you give at least 5 weeks written notice. This will incur an administrative fee.

What happens if a candidate is absent on the day of the test without giving prior notice?
The candidate will lose their full test fee. However, if a medical certificate is provided within 5 days of the test date then the full fee is refunded minus a local administrative deduction.

What happens if a candidate is delayed by circumstances beyond their control (eg a transportation strike)?

The test centre would offer the candidate an alternative test date (the next available test date). The candidate would be required to complete a Request for Transfer Form and pay the $50.00 transfer fee.

What happens if a candidate loses their Test Report Form?
Candidates have the option of applying for 5 additional copies of their test result free of charge at the time of making their test application. The additional Test Report Forms will not be sent to the candidates themselves, but to academic institutions/government agencies/professional bodies/employers that require it.

After the test, candidates can apply to the centre which administered their test for additional copies of their Test Report Form, within 2 years of sitting the test. An administration charge of $10 per copy will be charged for this service. 



What help is available for special needs candidates?
Test centres make every effort to cater for the special needs of any candidates, to enable them to best understand questions and tasks and to give their answers. It is our aim for the language level of all candidates, irrespective of disability, to be assessed fairly and objectively.

Candidates with special needs should inform their test centre between 6 weeks and 3 months in advance when applying so that appropriate arrangements can be made.