One app for all your study abroad needs
Students in India often wonder how to apply for the IELTS exam. IELTS is a global English test that helps you study, work, or live abroad. Many students feel confused about the steps, documents, fees, and choosing the right test date or centre. This blog explains everything. You will learn who can apply, the types of IELTS exams, how to register online or offline, and common mistakes to avoid. After this, you can avoid last-minute stress, and take the first step toward achieving their IELTS goals.
This Blog Includes:
- Who Can Apply for the IELTS Exam in India?
- Types of IELTS Exams
- How to Apply for IELTS Exam in India
- Documents Required for IELTS Application in India
- IELTS Exam Fee in India 2026
- How to Choose Your IELTS Test Date and Centre
- IDP vs British Council: Where Should You Apply?
- How to Reschedule or Cancel Your IELTS Exam Booking
- Common Mistakes to Avoid During IELTS Application
- FAQs
Who Can Apply for the IELTS Exam in India?
The IELTS is an international English test that helps students and professionals study, work, or move abroad. It is recognized worldwide and important for anyone planning global opportunities.
- Students and professionals can apply if they want to study abroad, work in English-speaking countries, or migrate internationally.
- Most applicants are between 15 and 40 years old, but there is no strict age limit.
- The test is required for university admission, job applications, and visa approvals in countries like the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
- Applying early, ideally 6 to 8 weeks before deadlines, is important because slots fill quickly, especially in peak months like May–August and November–January.
- A valid passport is essential, and personal documents should be ready to avoid delays.
- Planning your exam date according to preparation time and deadlines helps reduce stress and ensures a smooth application.
Types of IELTS Exams
IELTS is offered in two main types: Academic and General Training. Both test your English skills but are meant for different goals. Choosing the right type depends on whether you want to study abroad or work or migrate to another country.
| Type of IELTS | Purpose | Who Should Take It? | Accepted By |
| IELTS Academic | For higher education or professional registration abroad | Students applying to universities or colleges | Universities, academic institutions, professional bodies |
| IELTS General Training | For work experience, migration, or secondary education | Working professionals and migrants | Employers, immigration offices, vocational training institutes |
How to Apply for IELTS Exam in India
Applying for the IELTS exam in India is really easy if you follow the right steps. You can register online or offline, and knowing all the details ensures you avoid mistakes, save time, and secure your preferred date and test centre.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply Online
Here you will understand how you can apply for IELTS exam in India online.
- Visit the official website: Choose IDP or British Council. Make sure it is the verified site to avoid scams.
- Create an account: Use valid email ID and strong password. You will use this to track your application and get updates.
- Choose the test type: Academic for higher studies or General Training for work or migration. Pick carefully, as it cannot be changed later.
- Select your test date and centre: Check all available dates and centres near you. Book early during peak months like May–August and November–January.
- Fill in personal details: Enter your full name, date of birth, and other details exactly as they appear on your passport. Mistakes here can cause serious issues.
- Upload a recent passport-size photo: The photo must be clear, with a plain background, and in the correct format.
- Pay the exam fee: Use debit card, credit card, or net banking. Keep a screenshot or receipt as proof of payment.
- Review your application: Double-check all details before final submission. Once submitted, changes are limited and may require additional fees.
- Receive confirmation: You will get an email confirming your test date, centre, and application details. Keep it safe for future reference.
- Prepare your documents: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from the exam date. Save copies of the confirmation email and payment receipt.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply Offline at a Test Centre
Here you will understand how you can apply for IELTS exam in India offline.
- Visit a nearby IDP or British Council test centre: Check official websites for the nearest locations.
- Collect the registration form: Ask for the IELTS application form and instructions.
- Fill in your personal details: Write clearly and correctly. Include full name, date of birth, and address exactly as on your passport.
- Choose your test type, date, and centre: Discuss with the centre staff if you need guidance on availability.
- Attach your documents: Include a valid passport copy and a recent photograph.
- Pay the exam fee: Payment can be made in cash, cheque, or card depending on the centre. Keep the receipt safe.
- Receive your confirmation slip: This slip is your proof of registration. Check all details carefully.
Can You Apply Without a Passport?
No. A passport is mandatory for IELTS registration in India. Without it, you cannot book the test. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from your test date. Applying for a passport in advance is crucial if you don’t already have one.
Also Read: What are the Benefits of IELTS Exam?
Documents Required for IELTS Application in India
Before applying for the IELTS exam, it is important to have all the required documents ready. Having everything prepared ensures a smooth registration process and avoids delays. The documents are mostly the same for both Academic and General Training tests, with minor differences in purpose.
| Document | Purpose | Applies To | Tips |
| Valid Passport | Identification and verification | Academic & General | Must be valid for at least 6 months from the exam date |
| Recent Passport-Sized Photograph | Application and ID verification | Academic & General | Plain background, clear face, same as uploaded online |
| Application Form (Online or Offline) | Registration details | Academic & General | Filled accurately, name must match passport |
| Educational Certificates | Proof of study level (if required) | Academic | Usually requested by universities or for Academic test |
| Work Experience Certificates | Proof of employment (if required) | General Training | Needed if applying for work or migration purposes |
| Payment Receipt | Confirmation of exam fee | Academic & General | Keep screenshot or physical receipt safe |
IELTS Exam Fee in India 2026
The IELTS exam fee in India for 2026 is INR 18,000 for both the Academic and General Training tests. This fee applies to both paper-based and computer-delivered formats. It’s important to note that the fee may vary slightly for specific test types and services.
| Test Type | Fee |
| IELTS Academic (Paper or Computer) | INR 18,000 |
| IELTS General Training (Paper or Computer) | INR 18,000 |
| IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) | INR 18,250 |
| IELTS Life Skills (A1 or B1) | INR 17,000 |
| IELTS One Skill Retake | INR 12,000 |
How to Choose Your IELTS Test Date and Centre
If you choose the right test date and centre then it can make a big difference in your IELTS experience. Here are 5 key points to consider carefully.
- Test Date Planning: Pick a date that gives you enough time to prepare. Consider your school, college, or work schedule, and ensure you have at least 6 to 8 weeks for practice. Avoid last-minute booking to reduce stress.
- Peak Month Strategy: Popular months like May–August and November–January fill up fast. If you must book during these periods, register early. Alternatively, look for less crowded centres nearby to get a smoother experience.
- Centre Selection: Not all centres are the same. Some have better audio systems for listening tests, well-organized check-ins, or quieter exam halls. Consider travel convenience, seating comfort, and overall environment.
- Personal Comfort & Focus: Time of day, room size, and even lighting can affect performance. Morning sessions are usually calmer. Smaller centres may help if you get distracted easily. Factor in what helps you focus best.
- Backup and Flexibility: Always have a secondary date or alternative centre in mind. This helps if your first choice fills up, or you need to reschedule due to unforeseen circumstances. Being prepared reduces last-minute panic.
Also Read: How to Postpone IELTS Exam?
IDP vs British Council: Where Should You Apply?
Both IDP and British Council are official IELTS partners in India. Choosing the right one can make your registration smoother. While the core test content is the same, there are differences in booking processes, test centres, and support that students should consider.
| Feature | IDP | British Council |
| Registration Process | Online or at local centres, smooth interface | Online or at local centres, simple website and clear instructions |
| Test Centres | Over 50 centres across India | Over 40 centres across India, some in metro and tier-1 cities only |
| Customer Support | 24/7 online support, call support during office hours | Email and phone support, detailed FAQ section |
| Test Fees | INR 18,000 for Academic & General | INR 18,000 for Academic & General |
| Flexibility in Dates | Frequent test dates, some extra slots in peak months | Frequent test dates, good weekend availability |
| Experience & Feedback | Known for smooth check-in and audio clarity | Well-organized, reliable, sometimes crowded in peak months |
How to Reschedule or Cancel Your IELTS Exam Booking
Sometimes, things don’t go as planned, and you might need to reschedule or cancel your IELTS exam. So, here is the process that can save you from confusion.
Rescheduling Your IELTS Test
You can reschedule your test online through your IDP or British Council account or by visiting the test centre. Try to request changes at least five weeks before your test date. Acting early often reduces extra fees. Keep in mind that rescheduling last minute can cost more or even be impossible, so don’t delay.
Cancelling Your IELTS Exam
Cancellations are possible online or at the test centre as well. If you cancel early, you may receive a partial refund, but cancellations made closer to the test date usually don’t get refunded. Always check the official policy before cancelling to avoid surprises.
Tips for a Smooth Reschedule or Cancellation
- Keep your registration confirmation, payment receipt, and ID ready. Centres usually require them to verify your booking.
- Have a backup test date or centre in mind, especially if you have university, visa, or job deadlines approaching.
- Contact IDP or British Council support immediately if you encounter issues. They can help resolve most problems quickly.
- Remember, rescheduling is often easier and safer than cancelling, so consider it first if you’re unsure.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During IELTS Application
Filling out your IELTS application form is easy but small mistakes can cause big problems later. So, here is the list of common errors and how to correct them, just in case.
| Common Mistake | How to Correct It |
| Name mismatch with passport | Always enter your full name exactly as it appears on your passport. If already submitted, contact IDP or British Council immediately to correct it. |
| Wrong test type selection | Confirm whether you need Academic or General Training before submission. If chosen incorrectly, contact support ASAP to make the change. |
| Incorrect date of birth or personal details | Double-check all personal info before submission. Errors can only be corrected by contacting official support. |
| Uploading wrong photo | Upload a clear passport-size photo with a plain background. If wrong, request a replacement through the official channels before your exam date. |
| Incorrect centre or test date | Review available centres and dates carefully before submission. If submitted incorrectly, reschedule through the official portal or contact the test centre. |
| Incomplete payment or wrong receipt | Always complete the payment in full and save the confirmation. If payment fails, contact support immediately. |
Also Read: Phrases for IELTS Exam
FAQs
Ans: The IELTS exam fee in India for 2026 is INR 18,000 for both Academic and General Training tests. Fees for UKVI IELTS or Life Skills tests may vary slightly. Always check the official IDP or British Council website before booking.
Ans: You need a valid passport, a recent passport-size photograph, and the application form. Academic test-takers may need education certificates, while General Training candidates may require work experience documents. Keep all copies ready before registration.
Ans: Achieving a band score of 7 requires consistent practice in listening, reading, writing, and speaking. It is possible with proper preparation and familiarity with the test format, but it is not “easy” without effort. Focus on your weak areas and practice regularly.
Relatable Reads
This was all about how to apply for the IELTS exam in India. We covered who can apply, types of exams, test fees, and rescheduling or cancellation processes. Now, you can plan your application carefully and take the first step toward achieving your desired IELTS score. For more such insights, make sure to check out the Study Abroad page on Leverage Edu and stay updated!
60,000+ students trusted us with their dreams. Take the first step today!