The IELTS exam is offered at more than 800 test centres and locations in over 130 countries, including Singapore. You can find a complete list of IELTS test centres in Singapore and other parts of the world on the official IELTS website. The list includes both IDP and British Council Test centres and mentions whether or not they offer the computer-based test as well.
How To Choose A Test Centre
It is important to choose an appropriate test centre that is closer to you. The centre you that is most suitable for your test depends upon the location or availability of your preferred IELTS test. It is important to keep in mind that the IELTS test will be at the same level of difficulty wherever you take the test and that the IELTS examiners in every centre are qualified with the same level of expertise as they all undergo the same high level of training.
Important Factors to Consider when Choosing a Test Center Location
Not all test centres are created equal. There are some little-known facts that can change your IELTS Exam day experience.
- IELTS exams are usually offered on Saturdays and Thursdays, but the actual dates vary depending on the test centre. Remember that the Academic tests will be offered on all test dates, but only half of the available dates will be for the General Training test
- Another important variable to consider is whether or not your chosen test location offers both the paper-based and the computer-delivered IELTS tests. Not all centres are equipped to offer the computer-based test.
- You should also check the dates that different centres allow the speaking test to be taken. If you have booked your speaking test on the same day as the rest of the components, then it might be useful to choose a test location where you can easily find a good spot to have lunch or just relax before you take your speaking test. This can be a good way to compose your thoughts before the speaking test.
- The quality of the listening test recordings is one part of the IELTS Exam that can vary considerably at different test centres. Some locations just have better acoustics than others, while others may offer the use of headphones instead of speakers. If it is possible, try to get a hold of people who have taken their IELTS test at the same centre and ask them what their experience was like, especially with regard to the listening test.
In any case, these are all factors which can all have a big impact on your test day experience and you should confirm that your test centre has your preferred requirements. Although these decisions do depend greatly on your personal preferences, it can be of great assistance to get advice from an IELTS lecturer or trainer who has plenty of experience with the IELTS Exam in Singapore.