IELTS Exam: Your Complete Guide to Dates, Registration, Fees, and Tips!

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a widely recognised and globally accepted English language proficiency test by academic institutions, employers, professional bodies, and government agencies in English-speaking countries.

We have around a decade’s experience in coaching for the IELTS exam and in admission counselling for undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate programs. Our IELTS program has empowered over 20,000 students to achieve remarkable 7+ band scores in their IELTS exam journey. With unwavering dedication and a strong network of 800+ prestigious universities worldwide, we have transformed 300,000 + study-abroad dreams into realities.

The IELTS exam, the International English Language Testing System, is a highly recognised English language proficiency test jointly owned by IDP IELTS and Cambridge. It is required for students who are aspiring to study or work abroad in a place where English is the primary language.

Aside from being top-notch universities’ admission requirements, the IELTS exam increases your chances of visa applications and scholarships for your desired purposes. In addition to its perks, the IELTS exam charges you INR 17,000 when you register for it.

If your main aim is to study abroad, you must choose the IELTS Academic test. On the other hand, if your goal is to travel, work, or migrate to any English-speaking country like Canada, the UK, the USA, or Australia, you must take the IELTS General test.

Picking the IELTS exam confirms your English proficiency level and is a strategic step for your academic and professional pursuits worldwide. Opting for this opens the door to exceptional study opportunities along with the fact that a good band score can only meet your admission requirements and also to potential scholarships.

Further, the IELTS exam score adds a lot of value to your qualifications and also enhances your prospects. That’s why pursuing IELTS is not just about language assessment but also a forward-thinking approach.

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The IELTS exam is essential for various purposes like education, profession, or migration in English-speaking countries such as the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. It's an English language test which has been approved by the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) department.

But have you ever given it a thought? Why is IELTS always the top priority? Why IELTS is so popular? And why is it so important? Well, yes, the primary reason is IELTS makes sure that you can communicate effectively. For academic concerns, students coming from non-English speaking countries going to a typical English-speaking country should be able to understand and communicate properly while studying there.

That’s where IELTS band scores jump in. IELTS scores help universities and visa authorities know your robust grasp of English and will not struggle with language issues during your time over there.

Whether pursuing higher studies or seeking residency, your IELTS band scores instil confidence in universities and authorities in your understanding and good command of English. It’s like a stamp of approval that ensures everyone's language proficiency is needed to fit in and succeed in your host country.

The IELTS exam welcomes students regardless of their age, gender, race, nationality, or religion and showcases whether they are eligible or not. But make sure you are not under 16.

Now that IDP IELTS is the main conducting body of the IELTS exam, it imposes no specific age limit and allows flexibility for all demographics. Whether you study or work abroad, the IELTS exam serves as a language proficiency test accessible to a diverse range of aspirants.

As it maintains open IELTS Exam Eligibility criteria, you should be mindful of the additional policies set by your desired universities or organisations. 

IDP, the conducting body of IELTS, does not impose strict qualifications. Anyone who wants to study or work abroad should take the IELTS exam and consider both available versions - Academic and General. 

Yet you must check out the detailed information on the requirements of your desired university or visa authority. Even though IELTS doesn't have many rules, different places may have their own criteria.

Therefore, it’s a good idea to ensure you meet the standards of your desired university or organisation to help you smoothly go through the application process and meet your expectations.

For IELTS Exam Registration, you must visit the official website of IDP IELTS India and select one of the following options: register online or go to the nearest IDP branch (for offline mode). 

When signing up for the exam, you must keep your passports handy as you will need to give your passport number during the time of IELTS Exam Registration. Also, you must carry your passport on the day of your test. When under 18, your parent or guardian must handle your IELTS exam booking for you. Once the IELTS Exam Registration is done, your test centre will send you a confirmation with details about the date and time of your IELTS exam.

Whether you choose online or offline registration, having your passport details in order is a key part of the process. So, be sure to keep it handy for a smooth and successful IELTS Exam Registration experience.

If you are willing to take the exam, your first step is to find an IELTS exam centre at your preferred location. After that, you need to check the availability of dates for the test day.

Now, in order to secure a date, you are required to pay the fee for IELTS exam slot booking. Dates of the test day may vary per location and demand. So plan ahead and pick a date that suits your preference and allow sufficient preparation time.

Once you finish the registration and pay the fee, you'll get an email or receipt confirming your test details—like the date, time, and where it'll take place. Remember to keep this information safe for future reference. Henceforth, ensure to make your IELTS exam slot booking early to get the date and place you want, especially because popular dates can fill up quickly.

• Log in to the IDP IELTS India website.

• Select 'Register for IELTS' to create your IDP IELTS Login.

• Choose between computer-delivered or paper-based IELTS.

• Select the test type/module (Academic or General Training).

• Pick your preferred test location/city from available centres in India.

• Choose a date and time slot based on availability.

• Fill in your details and upload a clear, scanned copy of your passport.

• Select colleges to send your Test Report Form (TRF).

• Pay the IELTS exam fee of INR INR 17,000.

• Review details before making the payment.

• Once the test date is booked, receive an acknowledgement on your email/phone.

• Make an IELTS exam slot booking online within the specified time for the Speaking test (only for Paper-based IELTS). If not, a slot will be automatically allocated.

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In India, the IELTS exam fees stand at INR 17,000, and you must pay this registration fee each time you book the exam. You will get charged INR 17,250 when you opt for the computer-delivered IELTS for UKVI.

Aside from this, the IELTS Life Skills (A1 and B1) exam now has a fee of INR 16,050. Further, the IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration has undergone a fee revision, now set at INR 17,250. These fees cover the essential costs associated with conducting the respective exams.

Thus, you must be aware of the updated fee structure and ensure timely payment when registering for the specific IELTS exam variant that aligns with your requirements, whether for general purposes, visa applications, or immigration purposes.

IELTS cancellation policies include a refund minus a 25% administrative fee for cancellations over five weeks before the test. No refunds for cancellations within five weeks or no-shows. Further, medical certificates submitted within 5 days allow a refund after the deduction of local administrative costs. Other than this, rescheduling requires a request at least five weeks before the test, with a transfer fee of INR 3,300. Revaluation, or 'Enquiries on Results (EOR),' costs INR 12,200 and can be applied within six weeks of the test. A full refund is granted if the score increases to a higher band.

The IDP IELTS India serves as the conducting body for the IELTS exam, offering the test multiple times throughout the year. Therefore, you need to carefully select IELTS exam dates that align with your convenience and consider university admission timelines.

In order to prevent last-minute issues, you must plan to schedule your IELTS exam 3 to 4 months prior to the application deadline. This proactive approach ensures ample time for preparation and minimises the risk of any unforeseen complications.

IELTS test centres are conveniently located across various major cities in India, providing you with accessibility nationwide. By strategically planning your IELTS exam dates well in advance, you can navigate the IELTS process smoothly, enhancing your chances of achieving the desired scores for successful university applications or other endeavours requiring English proficiency.

The IELTS exam Centre is majorly convenient in metro cities and offers 82 centres across the country for you to pick up from. Selecting an IELTS Exam Center wisely is crucial, considering the exam day shouldn't be physically exhausting due to extensive travel.

Opt for an IELTS exam Centre with minimal commuting time to ensure you remain fresh and focused during the exam. With numerous locations, finding an IELTS exam centre near your residence becomes easier, enhancing convenience.

Remember, booking your IELTS exam centre in advance is essential, as it allows you to secure a spot at a time that suits you best. This thoughtful planning not only minimises travel stress but also ensures you can approach the exam with a clear mind, maximising your chances of success.

To achieve success, you must grasp the intricacies of the IELTS Exam Pattern and syllabus. Specifically, the IELTS Academic exam is tailored to analyse English proficiency in academic settings, particularly for individuals aspiring to study in English universities.

The IELTS exam tests your ability to comprehend complex academic texts, effectively communicate in educational contexts, and actively participate in academic discussions.

Understanding the IELTS Exam Pattern is vital, as it involves tasks such as reading and analysing academic passages, writing essays, and engaging in a face-to-face interview to gauge verbal communication skills.

By delving into the nuances of the IELTS Exam Pattern, you can strategically prepare for the unique demands of the Academic module, ensuring they showcase the requisite language proficiency essential for success in academic pursuits.

Below is the IELTS Exam Pattern at a glance:

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The IELTS Exam Syllabus includes four sections - reading, listening, writing and speaking. Following these 4 sections, you will get marked on them and receive your IELTS band score as well.

Having a good knowledge of the IELTS Exam Syllabus makes you understand how to approach each IELTS section. The sum of all sections’ scores in total makes the final IELTS band score. The given test duration is 2 hours and 45 minutes. Head over to the brief description of each section in terms of the IELTS Academic module.

The good news is you do not have to wait for a long time for your results after the test day. They are typically available online within a week or offline within 13 calendar days after taking the test.

Once your IELTS scores are ready, you will receive an email notification. To view your scores, simply log into your account on the IDP website dedicated to IELTS Results. This efficient process allows quick access to your performance outcomes, whether you check online or wait for the offline release.

The IELTS exam is designed to assess the English language proficiency of students at all levels, from the beginner to the expert level. Instead of losing the exam, you might get a lower band score.

The IELTS band score in total depends on each of the four parts score, which scales from 0 to 9. Marking each section and taking their average sum makes an overall IELTS score. Yet you must be aware of the minimum score set by universities and organisations as your eligibility or proficiency level in English.

Such a benchmark score is referred to as the IELTS cut-off score. You must know the IELTS cut-off of your desired institution beforehand to qualify for the IELTS exam. Henceforth, achieving a satisfactory IELTS band score is important for those planning to study, work, or migrate to an English-speaking country.

Well, IELTS exam preparation holds immense importance in achieving your desired band score. There are two ways to do it, one of which is self-study and the other one is coaching classes.

You can decide which way you want to study depending on your language proficiency and your comfort level. When your English skills are fluent enough, you can learn independently rather than picking coaching classes.

Whether you want to prepare independently or select one coaching class, you must figure out how to start your IELTS exam preparation properly. Even if you choose self-study, you should actively refer to the best IELTS exam preparation materials and resources, like the IELTS exam sample paper available at our Prepare IELTS Exam (PI) portal.

Nevertheless, joining coaching classes is a great choice when you are short on time and want proper expert guidance for preparation. Regularly attending these classes becomes a routine, helping you manage your time more effectively.

It's crucial to track your progress during your exam preparation. In this regard, regularly taking IELTS mock tests and practice exams is a helpful strategy. These tests not only reveal your current skill level but also familiarise you with the exam format, reducing anxiety on the actual test day.

By simulating exam conditions, you can identify areas of improvement and refine your test-taking strategies. This proactive approach enhances your readiness, ensuring that you enter the IELTS exam with confidence and a comprehensive understanding of your strengths and areas for development.

1. What is the full form of the IELTS?

IELTS stands for the International English Language Testing System. It is a standardised test assessing English language proficiency for non-native English speakers. Widely recognised for academic and immigration purposes, IELTS evaluates listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills to facilitate study, work, or migration to English-speaking countries.

2. What is the objective of the IELTS test?

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a standardised test designed to assess a person's proficiency in the English language, particularly for those who aim to study, work or immigrate to English-speaking countries. 

3. What is the IELTS exam structure and types of the IELTS exam?

The IELTS test consists of four modules: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Also, there are two types of IELTS exams: Academic and General IELTS. For General IELTS and Academic IELTS, you take the same Listening and Speaking tests but different Reading and Writing tests.

The test structure is as follows:

4. How is the IELTS test scored?

The IELTS test is scored on a 0-9 band scale wherein 1 band denotes the lowest, 9 band is the highest and 0 means the student has not appeared for the IELTS exam. You will receive individual and overall band scores for each section of all four modules.

5. What is the total duration of the IELTS test?

The duration of the test is either 2 hours and 44 minutes or 2 hours and 50 minutes, depending on whether it is paper-based (PBT) or computer-based (CBT).

6. What is the IELTS exam fee?

The IELTS test fee is 17,000 INR.

7. How do I register for the IELTS test?

You can register for the IELTS test by visiting IDP India

8. How is the IELTS test conducted?

There are two modes for conducting the IELTS test: Paper-based IELTS and Computer-delivered IELTS.

9. Can I take the IELTS test multiple times?

You can take the test as many times as you wish. However, improving your English skills between attempts is essential to score better.

10. Is there an age limit for taking the IELTS test?

While the minimum age requirement is generally 16, there is no upper age limit for taking the IELTS test.

11. Can I choose the order of test sections during the IELTS exam?

No, the order of test sections in the IELTS exam cannot be changed. Test-takers must follow the standardised Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking sequence for a fair and consistent evaluation of language proficiency.

12. For how long is the IELTS score valid?

IELTS scores are valid for two years from the test date; after that period, the scores expire and are no longer considered valid.

13. Who provides IELTS sample questions and mock tests?

Meridean Overseas Education Consultants (MOEC) is IELTS coaching in Jaipur that provides a comprehensive IELTS study plan, sample questions, and mock tests. 

14. Is giving the IELTS mock test beneficial?

Yes, IELTS mock tests play a huge role in preparing well for the actual test. They allow you to assess yourself and make strategies for acing in exams.