Apply for Special Consideration (13 days or less before the test date)

This policy applies to computer-based tests only. If you booked a paper-based test and want to apply for Special Consideration, please click here.

We understand that there may be situations where candidates can't attend their test due to an emergency outside of their control. In these situations, candidates can make an application for Special Consideration due to exceptional circumstances. 

The fee is $80. If your application is approved, your test booking will be transferred to the next suitable date.

You can apply 13 days or less before your test date, and up to 2 days after your test date.

Note: Special Consideration applies to transfer requests only. Requests to cancel may only be granted in very exceptional circumstances, for example, if you are leaving the country (read below for more information).

Candidates who:

• want to transfer their computer-based IELTS test 13 days or less before their test date, and up to 2 days after;
• and have an emergency reason for not attending their test.

To apply for Special Consideration, you must submit both:

• the Refund & Transfer Request Form
• and appropriate supporting evidence.

1. Download the Refund & Transfer Request Form.
2. Complete with Adobe Reader and save to your device. If you do not have access to a computer or Adobe Reader, you can print and scan a copy or fill one out at our office.

3. On page 1 of the form, check the Test Date Transfer box and include a Preferred New Test Date. You can look at available test dates on our website. However, do not book a new test.
   

4. Complete page 2 of the form to authorize payment for the $80.00 transfer fee. The fee must be paid before we can reschedule your date.

5. Gather your supporting evidence (see 'What evidence should I provide?' below for more).

6. Email the form and your supporting evidence to [email protected] as attachments.

7. A decision will be made on your application within 5 business days. If your application is rejected and you choose not to attend your test, there will be no refund. 

You must submit a complete application no later than 2 days after your registered test date. A complete application includes the form and evidence.

Click here for a step-by-step guide if you need help completing the Transfer Request Form.

Accepted reasons may include, but are not limited to,

• Unavoidable legal or military obligation;
• Bereavement, trauma, or other forms of significant hardship
• Serious medical conditions which prevent you from attending or performing normally on test day

Emergencies do not include:

• Feeling unprepared
• Having a personal/private conflict or sudden change in work schedule

It is the responsibility of the candidate to ensure they are prepared and have the day off work before they book a test.

Your test centre cannot tell you what evidence to provide. Only you know your situation. However, please provide any official or legal document that you feel supports the reason why you can't attend. 

Examples of previously accepted evidence include, but are not limited to:

• Hospital reports, discharge documents or a letter from your doctor*.
• Death certificates, family member medical records, flight tickets to your country of citizenship booked after your test registration, or a combination of these things.
• Police reports, (non-graphic) photos of an accident.
• Traffic reports, extreme weather reports or links to official news articles about an accident covering your area of residence.

*Doctor's letters must reference the exact date of your test and you must visit a doctor in person. Online, phone or virtual appointments may not be accepted. We do not accept "doctor's notes" from Maple or any other virtual sick note service.

I do not have an emergency but I don't feel prepared. Can I still apply for Special Consideration?

No. If you cannot supply supporting evidence for an emergency, your application will be rejected. We don't recommend booking your IELTS test until you feel prepared to take it. If you can't delay your test, we still recommend taking it as practice. If you don't receive the scores you need, you can book a new test when you feel more prepared.

Why was my request for Special Consideration rejected?

Your test centre can clarify why your application was rejected. Please respond to your rejection email. However, your application may have been rejected for one of these reasons:

• You did not provide supporting evidence
• Your supporting evidence was not accepted (wrong name, does not cover test date, evidence does not match the reason claimed...)
• You applied 3 or more days after your test date, or you did not send us one of the required documents before the application deadline.

You may be offered the chance to resubmit your application.

I requested a cancellation but was only granted a transfer. Why?

We will only approve cancellation requests if you can prove that it is difficult or impossible for you to take a new IELTS test within the next 3 months. Reasons may include, but are not limited to:

• If you are moving out of the country or to another province (evidence may be requested);
• You have a serious medical condition that prevents you from taking the test soon.

I just booked a test that starts in less than 13 days, but I want to cancel it. What am I eligible for?

Contact us within 24 hours after you submit payment to request a cancellation/transfer. We will honour requests made within this time. However, after 24 hours have passed, your booking is non-transferable unless you can supply evidence of an emergency. Find out more here.

I am very sick but I can't get medical evidence before the deadline. Can you help me?

Please contact our office immediately to speak to an advisor. Be prepared to explain your situation.