Frequently asked questions
How do I contact the test centre and where are the tests written?
You can contact the test centre by phone at 778-782-5930, by fax at 778-782-7223 or by email: ielts@sfu.ca . The tests are written at the SFU Vancouver campus at Harbour Centre, the SFU Burnaby campus or other locations as indicated on our test date page.
Why do I need to give you a copy of my passport/ permanent resident card? Why is my citizenship card/ /driver’s license not good enough?
IELTS Policy reads:
Only a valid passport or national ID card, bearing a photograph, number and signature, is acceptable. An ID card must show the full name in English lettering and include the date of birth and a photograph. University student cards, driving licenses, medical IDs, etc. are NOT acceptable forms of identification.
Can I give you the copy of my passport at a later date? (i.e., submit it at Harbour Centre, or fax to the IELTS Test Centre?)
No. If you submit your application without the copy of your passport, we will not be able to process it.
What are my chances of getting the test date I would like?
Candidates are served on a first-come, first-served basis. The IELTS test centre cannot guarantee a space in any given test date until your application has been processed. We do not, under any circumstances, ‘hold’ seats for candidates. The earlier you apply, the more likely you are to get the test date you want.
When will I receive confirmation of my test date?
If you apply in person you will receive a confirmation letter at that same time. If you send in your applicaton by mail or courier you will receive an email confirmation letter.
What happens if my test date is full?
For applications sent in the mail, we will put you in your second choice date. If that is also full, we will contact you. Please make sure you put an alternate test date and specify location.
Do I get a refund if I cancel?
You will only receive a refund minus $70 processing fee if you complete and submit the refund/transfer form 5 weeks prior to the test date.
What do I do if I’m sick on the day of the test?
You have five (5) business days from the date of the test to contact us. We require the refund/transfer form (pdf) and medical documentation in order to transfer your test date or process a refund. There is a $70 processing fee.
How long does the test take?
Candidates are required to be at the testing location at 8:00 am in order to check in. The reading, writing and listening tests are finished at noon. Speaking interviews are normally scheduled in the afternoon of the test date. Your interview time will be posted on test day. Interview times cannot be guaranteed in advance, so be prepared to stay until 17:30.
We will contact you prior to test day only if your interview is scheduled for another day.
How long will my results take?
Results are mailed out 13 days after the test date by regular post. You can also check your results on-line at www.sfu/ielts/results.html 13 days after the test date. We now also offer a pick up option, please refer to the Results section.
Can I register by fax or online?
No. You must apply in person or mail your complete application.
Can I pick up my test results in person?
We mail your copy of your test results to the address indicated on your application. You can also pick it up at the IELTS Registration Centre at SFU Vancouver by signing up for this service on test day. Please refer to the Results section.
Is it possible to get a second copy of my test results for my personal use?
No. Candidates are only sent one copy of their test results to the address listed on their application. All other copies must go to institutions.
How many copies of my results can I order?
Candidates may order up to five copies of their test results form to be sent to Canadian and International institutions free of charge when they are listed on the application form.
Additional copies may be ordered at a charge of $20.00 per copy, for Canadian and International institutions.
If I don't do well, can I rewrite the test?
If you wish to rewrite the IELTS test, you will need to reapply with a new application form and pay the test fee again.You may register for the next available test date.
How long are my test results valid?
Your test results are valid for two years.
What if I've sent my passport to the embassy/consulate to renew my visa?
You need your passport on the day of the test. You WILL NOT be allowed to write the exam if you do not have your passport on the day of the test. There are no exceptions. If you have sent it to the embassy/consulate, you will need to contact them and get it back prior to the test day.
What if my passport does not have a signature page?
You must submit a photocopy of a valid government issued identification with your photo and signature as well as a copy of your passport.