Test information:
1. For whom is an IELTS test in Switzerland meant for?
The IELTS test in Switzerland is for candidates that would like to study, work abroad or even migrate to a country where the native language is English. IELTS is the most popular test for those looking to migrate to Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the UK. It is globally recognised by more than 11,000 employers, universities, schools and immigration bodies including 3,400 institutions in the USA.
2. Where can I take my IELTS test in Switzerland?
Together with our partner the British Council we have test venues in Zürich, Bern, Lugano, Geneva, Lausanne, Winterthur, St. Gallen and Basel.
Look for your closest test location here
3. When can I take my IELTS test in Switzerland?
Please check the link below and enter the date you would like to take your test.
4. What is an IELTS test day like?
When arriving at your test location you have to bring your valid ID (!The same with which you booked your test with) and a picture will be taken of you. When going into the test room you must leave your personal belongings in a secure area outside of the test room. The Test Report Form, content, timing and structure of the test is the same whether you take the test on paper or on computer and the Speaking test is always face-to-face with a certified IELTS Examiner. If you do IELTS on a computer you will take the listening, reading and writing test using a computer.
Learn more about IELTS on computer
5. What is the difference between IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training?
The IELTS Academic test was developed for candidates who wish to study at a university or college as an undergraduate or postgraduate student. Or in general if you want to join or enter a professional institution.
The IELTS General Training is a test for your everyday English. This test is for candidates who would like to migrate to an English-speaking country.
Here is more information on the format
6. What are the ID and passport requirements?
You must have a valid ID (national identity card or passport) you used when you booked your test. Invalid or expired identification documents will not be accepted.
! If you cannot provide a valid ID, you will not be able to sit the test.
7. How much does an IELTS Test cost?
Both, IELTS Academic test and General test cost 410 CHF.
8. Can I bring my own pen and paper to the test?
You will not be able to bring your own paper and pen into the paper-based and computer-delivered IELTS test due to safety reasons. When doing the computer delivered IELTS test, we will provide you with a pencil and paper. For the speaking test you will also receive a paper to help you organize your thoughts as you speak with the examiner.
9. What is the test format and how long will it take?
Paper/Computer |
Content |
Time |
Listening |
40 questions |
Approximately 30 minutes (plus 10 minutes’ transfer time for paper-based) |
Reading |
40 questions |
60 minutes |
Writing |
2 tasks |
60 minutes |
Speaking |
3 parts |
11–14 minutes |
10. How can I prepare for an IELTS test?
We have plenty of free resources and practice tests on our website. If you register for IELTS online with Swiss Exams, you will receive access to the free version of Road to IELTS!
11. Is it possible to do all exam modules in one day?
The Listening, Reading, and Writing parts of the test are completed immediately after each other on the same day.
12. What help is available for test takers with visual, hearing, speaking or learning difficulties?
If you require special arrangements to be made, e.g. extra time or a modified version of IELTS, you must give us six weeks’ notice.
Special arrangements include the following:
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Extra time for medical conditions or infant feeding
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Braille papers
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Special Listening CD with necessary stops and pauses
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Lip-reading version of the Listening test
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Enlarged print or Speaking task cards in Braille.
13. Does the Listening tape provide instructions and pauses?
Once all test takers are ready, the Listening test will begin at the same time. The timing of the Listening is between 30-36 minutes. The recording will only be played once so make sure you listen carefully. After the Listening section, you will have 10 minutes to transfer the answers to the answer sheet.
Registration:
1. How do I register for an IELTS test in Switzerland?
You can register for your IELTS test here
Make sure to have a photocopy or photo of your identification document (the same you registered with) and a payment card at hand.
2. How long in advance of the exam is it possible to register?
You are able to register as early as three months before the IELTS test date and latest by one week before the exam date.
Results:
1. How long does it take to receive my IELTS score / results?
If you take your test on the computer you will receive your results within 3 to 5 days. Otherwise, a copy of your IELTS test score will be sent out 13 days after the test date via priority mail delivery.
You will be able to view your IELTS results in the test taker portal 3 to 5 calendar days after the test date.
A paper copy of your IELTS on computer test score – known as an IELTS Test Report Form (TRF) – will be sent out via priority mail delivery 5 days after your test date. This means you will receive the paper copy between 5-10 days after the test date. IELTS results will not be disclosed over the phone or through email.
2. How can I upload my IELTS test report to my LinkedIn profile?
Click on the link below. Don’t forget to list Swiss Exams as the issuing organisation.
3. What if I feel my test result is wrong? / Is it possible to request a remark?
If you are not satisfied with your results or you think they are wrong, you can apply for an Enquiry on Results (review of your IELTS results) by contacting the test centre where you took your IELTS test.
If you apply for an Enquiry on Results, your test will be remarked by a senior IELTS examiner who will not know your original band scores for each part of the test. If there are any changes to your original band scores, the test centre will issue a new Test Report Form (TRF).
You can request a remark within 6 weeks of the IELTS test date on your Test Report Form. You can request a remark for the whole IELTS test or for one or more parts (Reading, Writing, Listening or Speaking). Your reviewed results will be available within 2 to 21 days of applying for a remark.
There is a cost for requesting a remark. If your band scores change, the fee you paid will be refunded.
Schools:
1. Which organisations accept IELTS?
IELTS is accepted by over 11,000 organisations in more than 140 countries. These include:
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universities, schools, colleges and training organisations
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government departments and immigration authorities
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professional and industry associations
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multinational companies and employers.
Click here to search your specific organisation
Test Retake Option:
1. What if I am absent or sick on the test day?
2. What if I need to postpone or cancel my application?
Test Report Form:
1. How can I request additional test report forms?
To request additional copies of your Test Report Form (TRF), please fill in the form below:
2. What if I lose my Test Report Form?
If you lose your Test Report Form, please contact us: