IELTS Exam 2025: Dates, Fees in India, Registration, & more
Non-native speakers widely accept the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) as a measure of English proficiency. Universities, employers and immigration authorities in English speaking countries required it for admission, jobs and migration. Recognized by 12,500+ organizations across 140+ countries, the IELTS exam is a top choice for candidates aiming to study, work, or migrate abroad.
The British Council, IDP IELTS, and Cambridge University Press & Assessment jointly conduct the test. The IELTS exam 2025 evaluates English skills in Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. It has two formats:
- IELTS Academic- for students applying to international universities
- IELTS General Training- for work permits and migration.
IELTS reports scores on a 1-9 band score, with each section contributing to the overall band score. Let us learn more!
IELTS Exam: Key Highlights
| Particulars | Details |
| Full Form | International English Language Testing System |
| Purpose | Test English proficiency for study, work & migration abroad |
| Accepted By | 12,500+ organisations in the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, Germany, Ireland, New Zealand |
| Test Types | Academic (study) & General Training (work/migration) |
| Mode | Computer-based (7 days a week) & Paper-based (48 times/year) |
| Test Format | Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking |
| Fees (2025) | INR 18,000 (Academic & General)
18,250 INR (UKVI) INR 17,000 (Life Skills) |
| Result | 2–5 days (Computer)
13 days (Paper) |
| Score Range | Band 1–9 (overall & sectional) |
| Validity | 2 years |
| Conducted By | British Council, IDP IELTS & Cambridge University Press & Assessment |
| Contact (India) | 📍 Gurugram, Haryana
📞 1800-102-4544 ✉️ ielts.india@idp.com |
What is IELTS?
IELTS full form is International English Language Testing System. Students planning to study abroad, professionals seeking international job opportunities, and individuals applying for immigration widely take the IELTS exam, which test non-native English speakers. The IELTS exam evaluates- Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
IELTS Exam Pattern 2025
| Section | Duration | Details |
| IELTS Listening | 30 minutes | 4 sections with 40 questions |
| IELTS Reading | 60 minutes | 3 passages with 40 questions |
| IELTS Writing | 60 minutes | 2 tasks (Task 1: 150 words, Task 2: 250 words) |
| IELTS Speaking | 11–14 minutes | 3 parts: Introduction, Long Turn, and Discussion |
IELTS Syllabus
IELTS Syllabus includes four sections- Reading, Listening, Speaking and Writing. The questions in the IELTS test will be based on IELTS exam syllabus 2024. The IELTS total score is the sum of the scores in all four skills and the duration of the IELTS test is 2 hours 45 minutes. Here is a brief overview of the 4 sections:
- IELTS Listening Section
IELTS Listening is for 30 minutes and assesses the ability for understanding the spoken English through series of recordings, which includes lectures, monologues and so forth.
- IELTS Reading Section
IELTS Reading is for 60 minutes, and it evaluates reading comprehension skills by presentation of a variety of texts which includes articles, essays and graphs. Texts would include articles, essays aand graphs
- IELTS Writing Section
IELTS Writing is 60 minutes and consists of two tasks: Task 1 comprises summarizing, describing, or explaining the visual information which includes graphs, charts and diagrams. Task 2 includes how one responds to a given prompt and presents the arguments or tries to express their thoughts or opinions on a given topic.
- IELTS Speaking Section
The IELTS Speaking section is for 11-14 minutes and it assesses the ability to communicate orally in English and includes a face-to-face interview with the examiner and the inclusion of a variety of questions and tasks which are related to personal experience, opinions and so forth.
IELTS Syllabus 2024: Highlights
| Section | Description | Time |
| Listening | Understand spoken English through recordings | 30 minutes |
| Reading | Read and comprehend academic texts | 60 minutes |
| Writing | Summarize information & write an essay | 60 minutes |
| Speaking | Communicate orally in English (interview format) | 11-14 minutes |
IELTS Eligibility for Indian Students
For the IELTS exam, there are no particular IELTS eligibility criteria for the candidates. IELTS 2024 can be taken up by anyone irrespective of age, gender, race, or religion. The primary criterion for taking the IELTS exam is that the candidate should be at least 16 years old at the time of the exam, and there is no upper age limit. Important considerations which should be kept in mind are:
- Validity: A valid passport is required for identification in the exam.
- Requirements of the University: Universities can have their minimum score requirements for admission, so checking their guidelines before application is vital. These scores are mostly higher than the basic level of eligibility criteria (Around 6.0 to 7.0 bands).
IELTS Registration 2025
For IELTS registration to IELTS exam 2024, candidates can proceed with the process online through the official IDP IELTS India website or by visiting the nearest IELTS test center for the offline process. Candidates need to provide their passport details, so getting the passport ready is important.
Candidates under 18 require a parent or guardian to assist with registration. After registration is completed, candidates receive a written confirmation containing information about the date and time of the IELTS exam.
Steps for IELTS Test Registration
IELTS Test booking can be done by following the steps mentioned below:
- Choose the test type: Choose the test type, whether Academic or General Training.
- Select Test format: Choose the format, whether computer-delivered or paper-based.
- Find nearest test center: Locate the IELTS test center closest to you.
- Pick the test date: Select the test date that best suits you.
- Create an account: On the official IELTS website, register.
- Fill out the form: Provide the necessary personal details and test preference.
- Upload Identification: A Copy of your valid passport or any National ID must be submitted.
- Pay the test fee: Complete the payment by using the available resources.
- Receiving the confirmation: Get the test confirmations and instructions through email or phone SMS.
- Prepare for the test: Use the official IELTS materials for practice and preparation.
IELTS Exam Fee in India 2025
The IELTS exam fee in India 2025 is INR 18,000 for both the IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training tests. Whether you choose the paper-based IELTS or the computer-delivered IELTS, the cost remains the same at INR 18,000. Candidates can find detailed IELTS fee in India 2025 are as follows:
IELTS Exam Fee in India 2025
The IELTS exam fee in India 2025 is INR 18,000 for both the IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training tests. Whether you choose the paper-based IELTS or the computer-delivered IELTS, the cost remains the same at INR 18,000. Candidates can find detailed IELTS fee in India 2025 are as follows:
| IELTS Test Type | Fee (INR) | Description |
| IELTS Academic | 18,000 | For students applying to universities or institutions in English-speaking countries. |
| IELTS General Training | 18,000 | For migration, work, or training programs below degree level. |
| IELTS on Computer | 18,000 | Listening, Reading, and Writing on computer; Speaking conducted face-to-face. |
| IELTS on Computer (UKVI) | 18,250 | Required for UK visa applications; same format as the computer-based IELTS. |
| IELTS Life Skills (A1 & B1) | 17,000 | Tests everyday English communication skills for UK visa and immigration purposes. |
IELTS Exam Fee by City
| City | IELTS Exam Fee (INR) |
| Delhi | 18,000 |
| Mumbai | 18,000 |
| Kolkata | 18,000 |
| Chennai | 18,000 |
| Pune (2025) | 18,000 |
| Bangalore | 18,000 |
| Hyderabad | 18,000 |
| Ahmedabad | 18,000 |
| Chandigarh (2025) | 18,000 |
| Jaipur | 18,000 |
| Coimbatore | 18,000 |
| Surat | 18,000 |
| Thane | 18,000 |
| Ludhiana | 18,000 |
| Jalandhar | 18,000 |
IELTS Exam Dates 2025: Overview
- Computer-based IELTS: Available all 7 days of the week (except national holidays).
- Paper-based IELTS: Conducted up to 4 times per month.
- Booking Tip: To avoid last-minute issues, select an exam date 3-4 months before your university application deadline.
- Availability: Test dates and slots vary by city; candidates must check the official IELTS Booking portal for updated schedules.
IELTS Rescheduling & Cancellation Policy 2025 (India)
| Policy | Conditions | Key Points |
| Rescheduling | Request must be made at least 9 days before test date | – Valid supporting documents required
– New test date depends on slot availability – Administrative charges may apply |
| Cancellation | Request must be made at least 9 days before test date | – Valid documents mandatory
– Approval required before processing – Refund issued within 7–10 business days after deducting admin charges |
IELTS Centers in India
IELTS centers in India are spread across many major cities. The IELTS exam can be taken in any of the 82 centers. Choosing the location wisely is very important, as it will minimize commuting time. With so many centers across India, selecting a center near your residential place will be easier. The IELTS center should be booked in advance to avoid any hassle.
IELTS Results & Score
Candidates don’t have to wait long for their IELTS results. The testing authorities release paper-based IELTS scorecard in India on the 13th day after the test date. They declare computer-delivered IELTS results within 2-5 days. Once the scores are ready, candidates receive an email notification and can log in to their official IELTS account to view the results.
IELTS Cut- Off 2025
The IELTS exam measures English proficiency across different levels, so candidates do not pass or fail. Examiners award scores seperately for the four sections on 1-8 band scale and also give an overall band score.
It’s important to note that IELTS cut-off varies across universities, colleges and programs. While some institutions require higher bands, other may not mandate IELTS at all.
IELTS Score Requirement by Country
| Country | Minimum IELTS Score | Institutions/Authorities | Primary Purpose |
| United Kingdom | 6.0 – 7.0 | UKVI, Most Universities | Study, Work, Visa Applications |
| United States* | 6.5 – 7.0 | 3,400+ Institutions | Study, Some Visa Categories |
| Canada | 6.0 – 6.5 | IRCC, Majority of Universities | Study, Work, Immigration |
| Australia | 6.0 – 7.0 | Department of Home Affairs, Universities | Study, Work, Immigration |
| New Zealand | 6.5 – 7.0 | Immigration NZ, Universities | Study, Work, Immigration |
| Ireland | 6.0 – 6.5 | Most Universities | Study, Work |
| Germany | 6.0 – 6.5 | Several Universities | Study |
| Netherlands | 6.0 – 7.0 | Majority of Universities | Study |
| Singapore | 6.0 – 7.0 | Many Universities & Employers | Study, Work |
| Hong Kong | 6.0 – 6.5 | Most Universities | Study |
IELTS Preparation Tips
| Section | Preparation Tips |
| Listening | Practice with IELTS listening test samples daily, improve focus with audio exercises. |
| Reading | Read English newspapers, journals, and academic articles; practice skimming & scanning. |
| Writing | Work on essay structure, practice writing reports & letters; get feedback on tasks. |
| Speaking | Improve fluency by speaking English daily, record answers to sample IELTS questions. |
| Time Management | Solve practice papers within exam time limits to boost speed and accuracy. |
| Mock Tests | Take full-length IELTS mock tests to identify strengths & weaknesses. |
| Vocabulary & Grammar | Build vocabulary with word lists; revise grammar for accuracy and better expression. |
| Exam Strategy | Understand IELTS exam pattern, marking criteria, and focus on high-scoring sections. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the IELTS exam fee in India 2025?
The IELTS exam fee in India for 2025 is INR 18,000 for both IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training. For IELTS for UKVI, the fee is INR 18,250, while IELTS Life Skills costs INR 17,000.
How many times do test provides conduct the IELTS exam in India in 2025?
IELTS is conducted multiple times throughout the year in India. Computer-based tests are available 7 days a week (excluding national holidays), while paper-based IELTS is conducted up to 4 times a month.
What is the IELTS exam eligibility in 2025?
There is no specific eligibility criteria set by IELTS. However, candidates must be at least 16 years of age and possess a valid passport to register for the IELTS exam in India.
