A strict set of protocols is in place to safeguard every aspect of the IELTS test, including:

• tight regulations surrounding test papers


• biometric test taker registration and verification systems


• training of test center staff to help them identify imposters, detect fraudulent behavior and prevent cheating


• strict test conditions


• routine scrutiny of test results before release.

This multilayered approach to test security also includes a probity process for prospective test centers and strict protocols surrounding test center operations and audits.
The IELTS partners also work closely with relevant authorities worldwide, including migration and law enforcement agencies, to detect, prevent, and, where appropriate, prosecute any cheating or fraud attempt in accordance with local legislation.
If you have concerns relating to the security of the IELTS test (e.g. you have heard about suspected scams or suspected fraudulent activities), you can report them to us using this online report form.
Please note that this form is only to be used for the reporting of security concerns. If you would like to provide other feedback about the IELTS test, or if you would like to make a complaint about the IELTS test, please use this online inquiry form.

• Do not waste your money or risk your future by attempting to cheat.
• Do not trust anyone trying to sell IELTS results.

• Organisations that use IELTS are strongly encouraged to verify every result presented to them as an additional safeguard against fraudulent documents. They can do this quickly and easily by using the online IELTS Results Verification Service, which cross-checks the information on the form against the IELTS database. The form itself has many security features, including security-enhanced paper, authenticated by an IELTS validation stamp, and a high-resolution photograph of the test taker.


• Where organizations find that a result presented to them does not match the result stored by the Verification Service, they are advised to contact the IELTS Partners so that the matter can be investigated.

The IELTS Results Verification Service enables organisations to check, securely and free of charge, whether test takers are presenting genuine results.
Organizations can also opt to download results, instead of receiving hard copies of individual Test Report Forms. Already Registered || Login

Option 1: Verify individual IELTS Test Report Forms

• The free, secure IELTS Results Verification Service allows organizations to quickly verify that an applicant is presenting a genuine Test Report Form by checking that the results you receive match the results held on the IELTS database.
• Once you have registered for the IELTS Results Verification Service, you may then opt in to download IELTS results electronically instead of receiving hard copies of results.

Option 2: Securely download results electronically* The IELTS download service allows registered organizations to securely download verified IELTS results for all test takers who have applied to their organization. This means:

• you can feel confident that results are genuine as they will be securely transferred direct from official IELTS systems to your data system
• you will save time by downloading results in bulk, at a time that's convenient for you test-takers will no longer need to present paper Test Report Forms.
• Results can be downloaded in either .XML or .CSV format.