Introduction

You can not pass without proper identification! IELTS is the world’s most well-known English language test for higher education and migration purposes. Identity verification is an integral part of the whole process. But do you need to have a passport for IELTS in India?

In this post, the blog will explain who really must provide a passport, at what stage of the IELTS test, what to do if your passport is not valid, and more of the key questions you need to answer, if you want to appear for a test. Make sure you’re dialed in with everything you need to know.

Is a Passport Mandatory for IELTS in India?

The short answer? Yes.

As per IDP Education and the British Council (official partners of IELTS in India), the only permissible ID to carry for taking and registration of IELTS is a passport. Other IDs — like Aadhaar cards, PAN cards, or even driving licenses — will not be acceptable.

This passport-first procedure is uniformly applicable to all test centers in India. If you’re going to take the IELTS, make sure you are passport-ready at least the day before.

Why Is a Passport the Only Accepted ID?

Why does IELTS allow only a passport as an ID? So why does this policy exist everywhere, including India?

• International Standardization

Passports are universally accepted as legal documents worldwide so it’s the gold standard for proving one’s identity in international tests such as the IELTS.

• Authenticity

Unlike other IDs, passports are generally not easy to forge and thus pose a much greater degree of security and credibility.

• Uniformity Across Borders

The IELTS is an internationally administered exam, so there’s a need for consistent ID verification practices around the world.

By using passports, we remove an aspect of ambiguity and ensure that we refer to the same, strict criteria to verify candidates regardless of where they are based.

When Must You Submit the Passport?

Knowing when and how to submit your passport is essential to a successful IELTS preparation.

During Online Registration

Once you have applied for your test online, you will need to supply the details of your valid passport. This includes both the passport number and the expiration date, so keep your documents nearby as you go through the registration process.

On Exam Day

Bringing the passport with which you registered to the testing center is mandatory. Photocopied or scanned copies are not acceptable. The original passport will be checked by the test administrators before allowing you to take your seat in the examination hall.

Make sure your passport is up to date and that your registration information matches up exactly with your ID information so you don’t run into hiccups.

What if My Passport is Expired or Under Process?

If your document is expired or still in renewal, having a valid passport available can get complicated. Here’s how you can address such scenarios:

• Expired Passport

An out-of-validity passport is not accepted providing IELTS registration or to authenticate candidate identification on the test day. Make sure to always renew your passport before you start registration.

• Passport Application Under Process

If your passport is being processed, wait until you receive the finalized document before booking your exam date. Registration cannot proceed without entering a valid passport number.

Pro Tip: Plan on getting or renewing your passport at least a few months ahead of your test date to avoid any administrative hiccups.

Are There Any Exceptions?

As I said, the passport requirement when it comes to IELTS is fairly common, but there are a few small scenarios that you should be aware of.

• Candidates Below 18 Years of Age

Candidates under 18 may be required at some test centers to provide a letter of consent from a parent or guardian. That being said, this is an additional form but does not take the place of a passport.

• Other Countries, Different Rules

In countries outside India, there could be different rules that might allow other identification documents like national ID cards. However, these are local rules and they don’t apply to candidates who are appearing for the IELTS in India.

It is always advisable to refer to the official IELTS India instructions to keep everything clear.

Tips for IELTS Aspirants

Prep is everything when it comes to nailing the IELTS, and having your documents in order should be on your prep list.

• Apply for Your Passport Early

If you don’t already have a passport, hand in your application as soon as you can. The process may take weeks or months, depending on the situation.

• Keep Photocopies Handy

Although photocopies themselves cannot be used in place of the actual passport during registration or on test day, it’s good to keep the duplicates for record purposes.

• Double-Check All Details Before Exam Day

Please ensure that your passport details correspond to the information you entered when registering. Inaccuracies may result in disqualification on the day of the examination.

• Stay Updated with Guidelines

Watch for announcements from either IDP or the British Council, as they sometimes change requirements.

Missing Your Passport Could Cost You Your Exam

The experience of many students shows that they are not allowed to sit in the exam because of the wrong or expired ID proofs. Don’t take this risk! Make sure your passport is current, the information is accurate, and you’ve got it in your hand before test day.

Need further guidance? Kanan Dehradun is here to help.

Whether it’s preparing for the IELTS, guiding you through the passport application process, or answering study visa queries, our experts at Kanan Dehradun have got your back.

Contact Us Today

• 📞 Call us at 9557722747
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