Complete Guide to Computer-based IELTS Test Process in Jakarta Indonesia
I had been planning to take the computer-based IELTS in Jakarta, Indonesia, and had scoured Xiaohongshu for tips, but found very little information, with most posts being outdated and focused on the paper-based test. However, as many are aware, Indonesia no longer accepts foreign candidates for the paper-based IELTS.
After taking the test, I decided to share my experience and create a comprehensive guide for others!
(1) First and foremost, it’s crucial to note that Indonesia generally only accepts foreign candidates for the computer-based test, not the paper-based one. This is such an important point that it bears repeating: **not the paper-based test, not the paper-based test, not the paper-based test**! If you still wish to take the paper-based test in Indonesia, you must have a local work or study residence permit.
After registering, I received an email from the IELTS organization, which emphasized this requirement.
(2) I chose to take the test with the British Council, and the registration fee was approximately 1.4K RMB. Be sure to have a Visa card ready for payment, as it is essential for the process!
(3) The test center is located in South Jakarta. For transportation, I highly recommend using a motorcycle, as it can help you avoid the notorious traffic jams. Jakarta is known for its congestion, so it’s wise to arrive at least one and a half hours early. It took me around 30 minutes to find the test location. My test was scheduled to start at 9 AM, and I arrived in the area by 7:30 AM, finally locating the test center around 7:50 AM.
(4) Upon arrival, you will first sign in at the entrance. Inside, a staff member will confirm your name and ask to see your passport. Don’t forget to also bring an electronic copy of your visa to show! Next, you will proceed to the registration desk, where you will need to present your passport and visa again.
You will be asked to remove your glasses for a quick check to ensure everything matches your passport photo. After that, you will sign a document and receive your candidate number. Finally, your fingerprints will be taken, and a photo will be snapped. They will remind you to turn off your phone and store it in a locker, as it is strictly prohibited in the test room.
(5) Just before the test begins, they will call out your candidate number and direct you to the test room. Once inside, you can take your seat. Instructions will be given in English, such as not being allowed to use the restroom or leave your seat during the test. After logging into the computer with your candidate account and password, and checking the headphone sound, you can begin the test.
(6) Some additional notes:
You only need to bring your passport and an electronic copy of your visa—no need to print the admission ticket. (Before the test, I frantically searched for what to prepare and found many people saying that the IELTS computer-based test requires printing the admission ticket, but in Indonesia, it’s not necessary.)
The staff are incredibly friendly and patient, and the headphones provided during the test have excellent sound isolation, so you won’t be distracted by any audio from other test-takers.
Since I’ve only taken the test once, I can’t speak to the average difficulty of the IELTS in Indonesia, but the one I took was quite manageable. I personally felt the difficulty level was similar to Cambridge 7 and 8, and definitely not as challenging as Cambridge 15-19!
Wishing everyone success in their IELTS!
