How to Schedule the Exam

Your licensing agency determines your eligibility to take the ILE. Eligibility requirements vary by jurisdiction, so please contact your licensing agency for information about how to become eligible to take the ILE.

Once you are deemed eligible by your jurisdiction, your licensing agency will notify IHS, providing us with your email address they have on file that we will use to contact you about the exam. Within one business day, IHS will email you the ILE Study Guide, important exam information, and a unique link for you to schedule your exam appointment. This unique link will ONLY work for the intended recipient, not anyone else. 

To schedule your exam, use the unique link provided to submit the exam fee and then choose your testing center, date, and time. Your exam appointment is only confirmed once you complete these online steps. The $260 USD exam fee is payable by any major credit or debit card. 

If you require testing accommodations, please complete the process to request these accommodations before scheduling your exam appointment.

Testing Centers

You can explore the network of testing centers here by selecting “Test Site Cities” along the filtering menu. Testing centers set their own availability/schedule. To see actual exam availability, you must use the unique scheduling link provided by IHS. Nearly every jurisdiction that uses the ILE will allow you to take the exam at any testing center. As an example, if you live near a state border, you may take the exam in a neighboring state. However, it’s crucial that you verify with your licensing agency before scheduling your appointment as some jurisdictions have stricter rules than others.

Rescheduling or Canceling the Exam

Exams can be canceled or rescheduled up to 48 hours prior to the appointment with no added fees. If rescheduled or cancelled less than 48 hours prior to the exam appointment, you will forfeit the entire exam fee. If you have approved testing accommodations, you must contact IHS to cancel or reschedule their exam, and standard fees will still apply.

Re-Taking the Exam

Rules for re-taking the exam vary by jurisdiction. Upon taking the exam, you will receive a Test Completion email that details next steps if a re-take is required.  

  • Do I need to re-take the exam if I want to be licensed in another state/province?

    If you have already passed the ILE, some licensing agencies will allow you to bypass taking the ILE again if official proof is provided of your previous passing result. This only applies in jurisdictions that use the ILE as their licensing exam. Check with the licensing agency to verify their process. If your licensing agency will allow you to bypass re-taking the ILE, then you will need to follow steps to request a Score Transfer. Learn more here.

     

  • When can I expect to get my results?

    It varies based on the jurisdiction, but most candidates will receive their results via email immediately after the test. Learn more here.

     

  • Do I need to bring anything with me the day of my exam?

    Yes, when going to the testing center for your exam appointment, you will need to bring a valid, physical, unexpired photo ID – the name on your ID must match exactly the name on your test-taker web account. If your name has changed recently, it is strongly recommended that you call IHS to confirm the name on your test-taker account prior to your exam. You will also need to bring your Registration Confirmation email, either printed or on your phone. Phones must be stored in your car or the secure storing area provided by the testing center after presenting the confirmation email. If you don’t have the email, check your spam/junk folder. Call IHS if you cannot locate it.  Arrive early, giving yourself plenty of time to park and figure out where you’re going. If you arrive late, you may not be permitted to take the exam. You cannot bring personal possessions. Any testing aids (calculator, scratch paper, etc.) are not permitted in the testing center. Most testing centers have a secure area for storing your essential items (i.e., car keys) during your test.

    You must adhere to IHS’ standards of conduct during the exam as well as any instructions or directives from testing center staff. Refer to the Standards of Conduct as listed here.

     

  • Do I need formal training in order to take the International Licensing Examination for Hearing Healthcare Professionals (ILE)?

    Requirements vary by jurisdiction, so please contact your licensing agency for information. Because the exam is practice-based, it is unlikely that you can be successful on the ILE without clinical experience. Both the academic training and workplace training pathways into becoming a Hearing Aid Specialist can provide the knowledge and skills needed to be successful. Learn more about preparing to become a Hearing Aid Specialist here.