How to Postpone IELTS Exam 2023: Process and Reasons

When registering for the IELTS examination, it’s important to be aware that unforeseen circumstances may arise, requiring you to postpone the exam date. Understanding the process and requirements for postponement is crucial to ensuring a smooth experience.

In this comprehensive guide, we will provide clear and detailed information on the circumstances wherein mothballing of the IELTS exam is allowed, the step-by-step process for rescheduling, the necessary documents, the refund policy, IELTS reschedule fees in India, and important facts to consider.

Prerequisites to Postpone the IELTS Exam

Postponing your IELTS exam is allowed under certain conditions, which include:

• Demise of someone in immediate family or of a kin
• Accidents or medical emergencies
• Being a victim of a crime
• Loss of passport
• Travel complications

Must Read: IELTS 2023 (International English Language Testing System)

Process to Reschedule the Exam

To successfully reschedule your IELTS exam, follow these steps:

• Contact the test centre: Reach out to the test centre where you registered for the exam through mail or personally  to initiate the rescheduling process.
• Fill out the Request for Refund or Test Day Transfer Form: Obtain the necessary form from the test centre and complete it with accurate information.
• Attach supporting evidence/documents: Gather the required supporting documents based on the specific reason for rescheduling.
• Submit the form and documents: Send the completed form, together with any necessary supporting documentation, to the testing facility with the appropriate rescheduling fee.
• Choose a new exam date: Select an available date within three months of the original booked test date.

Necessary Documents for Postponement

The documents needed to postpone the IELTS exam may vary depending on the situation. Here are examples of documents you may need to provide:

• Accident or medical emergency: Medical report, hospital admission records, and discharge information.
• Demise of an immediate family member: Death certificate with the proper signatures and registration number.
• Victim of a crime or accident: Copy of the First Information Report (FIR) in such cases. 
• Passport misplacement: A confirmation letter from the passport office stating your passport number and expected return date.

Also Read: IELTS Exam Fees

Refund Policy for Postponement

The refund policy for rescheduling the IELTS exam varies depending on the test centre. Here are general considerations:

1. An administrative charge will be subtracted from your refund if you plan or cancel more than five weeks before the test date.
2. The whole amount may be deducted if you schedule a test appointment or cancel within five weeks of the test date (absent urgent medical needs).
3. Post subtraction of the local administrative fee, if you submit a medical certificate within five days of the test date, you may be qualified for a refund.

IELTS Reschedule Fees in India

Candidates in India who wish to reschedule their IELTS exam need to pay an administrative charge of Rs 3,300 inclusive of all taxes for the transfer of the test date. It is important to note that candidates can reschedule the IELTS exam only once.

Important Facts about Postponing/Transferring the Exam Date

Consider the following facts when rescheduling your IELTS exam:

• Timeframe for deferral: Is only up to three months from the actual exam date.
• Application timing: For computer-based IELTS exams, apply for a transfer at least three weeks before the test date to allow sufficient time for processing.
• Administrative fee: A portion of the examination fee is designated as an administrative fee for rescheduling.
• Test centre’s decision: The final decision to reschedule the exam rests with the test centre. If they are unable to accommodate the requested date, cancellation may be necessary.

FAQs

Having a clear understanding of the process and requirements for postponing your IELTS exam is essential when unexpected circumstances arise. By following the step-by-step process, providing the necessary documents, and being aware of the refund policy and IELTS reschedule fees in India, you can navigate the postponement process effectively. 

You may enlist the assistance of Leverage Edu specialists to assist you with the application process so that you can realise your goals. Call us immediately at 1800 57 2000 for a free 30-minute counselling session.