How to Register for IELTS 2026
Registering for IELTS is straightforward, but choosing the right test type, date and location requires some planning. This guide walks you through every step of the booking process, explains the costs in different countries, and tells you exactly what documents you need.
Step-by-Step Registration Process
IELTS is jointly owned by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia, and Cambridge University Press & Assessment. You can register through either the British Council or IDP — the test content, scoring and certificate are identical regardless of which provider you choose.
- Go to ielts.britishcouncil.org
- Create an account (or log in if you have one)
- Select your country and city
- Choose Academic or General Training
- Choose Paper-based or Computer-delivered
- Select your preferred test date from available options
- Fill in your personal details (must match your ID document exactly)
- Upload a recent passport-style photograph
- Pay the test fee online (credit/debit card or bank transfer)
- Receive a confirmation email with your test details
- Go to ielts.idp.com
- Create an account (or log in)
- Select your country and test centre location
- Choose Academic or General Training
- Choose Paper-based or Computer-delivered
- Select your test date
- Complete the application form with personal details
- Upload your photograph and ID scan
- Pay the test fee
- Receive booking confirmation
IELTS Test Fees by Country (2026)
Fees vary by country and are set by the local test centre. The figures below are approximate and may vary slightly between test centres within the same country.
| Country | Currency | Approximate Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom | GBP | £185 - £195 | Computer-delivered sometimes cheaper |
| United States | USD | $245 - $255 | Varies by state |
| Canada | CAD | $319 - $338 | GT often same price as Academic |
| Australia | AUD | $410 - $420 | IDP is the main provider |
| India | INR | ₹16,250 - ₹17,000 | Many test centres available |
| Pakistan | PKR | Rs. 52,000 - 55,000 | British Council and IDP both active |
| Bangladesh | BDT | ৳25,500 - 26,500 | Dhaka and Chittagong centres |
| Nigeria | NGN | ₦120,000 - 130,000 | British Council is the main provider |
| UAE | AED | AED 1,175 - 1,250 | Multiple centres in Dubai and Abu Dhabi |
| Saudi Arabia | SAR | SAR 1,300 - 1,400 | British Council centres |
| China | CNY | ¥2,170 - 2,220 | Register via NEEA (British Council partner) |
| Philippines | PHP | PHP 11,000 - 12,000 | IDP and British Council |
| Germany | EUR | €240 - 260 | Multiple cities |
| Ireland | EUR | €220 - 235 | Dublin and Cork centres |
| New Zealand | NZD | $410 - $430 | IDP is the main provider |
Required Documents
Identity Document
You must bring a valid, unexpired identity document on test day. This must be the same document you used when registering.
- International candidates: Valid passport (required in most countries)
- Within your own country: National ID card may be accepted (check local rules)
- China: Chinese national ID card (Shen Fen Zheng) is accepted
Photograph
You need a passport-style photograph that meets these requirements:
- Recent (taken within the last 6 months)
- Clear, sharp and in focus
- Plain white or light-coloured background
- Full face visible, no sunglasses or hats
- Standard passport dimensions (35mm x 45mm for printed, or equivalent digital)
For computer-delivered tests, you may be photographed at the test centre instead.
Choosing Your Test Date and Location
IELTS tests are available on multiple dates throughout the year, but availability depends on your location and chosen format.
- Usually available 2-4 times per month
- Fixed test dates (typically Saturdays)
- All four sections completed in one day
- Speaking may be on the same day or within a few days before/after
- Results available after 13 calendar days
- Available almost every day in major cities
- Multiple sessions per day (morning and afternoon)
- Listening, Reading and Writing completed on computer
- Speaking is still face-to-face with a human examiner
- Results available after 3-5 calendar days
Paper-Based vs Computer-Delivered: Which Should You Choose?
| Factor | Paper-Based | Computer-Delivered |
|---|---|---|
| Results speed | 13 days | 3-5 days |
| Availability | Limited dates | Almost daily |
| Writing | Handwritten | Typed (word count shown) |
| Reading | Paper booklet | Screen (highlight & note tools) |
| Listening | 30 min + 10 min transfer time | 30 min (no transfer time — answers entered directly) |
| Speaking | Face-to-face with examiner | Face-to-face with examiner (identical) |
| Best for | People who prefer handwriting and reading on paper | Fast typists, people who need results quickly |
What to Expect on Test Day
Arrival
Arrive at the test centre at least 30 minutes before the scheduled start time. You will go through identity verification, have your photograph checked, and be directed to your seat. Mobile phones and all electronic devices must be switched off and left outside the test room.
Listening (30 minutes)
Four recorded sections played once only. You answer questions as you listen. For paper-based tests, you get 10 extra minutes at the end to transfer your answers to the answer sheet.
Reading (60 minutes)
40 questions across 3 sections (Academic) or 3 sections of increasing difficulty (General Training). No extra transfer time — write answers directly on the answer sheet as you go.
Writing (60 minutes)
Two tasks. Task 1 (150 words, approx 20 minutes) and Task 2 (250 words, approx 40 minutes). Task 2 carries twice the weight of Task 1.
Speaking (11-14 minutes)
A face-to-face interview with an examiner, usually on the same day or within a few days of the written test. Three parts: interview, long turn (cue card), and discussion. The test is recorded.
Cancellation and Rescheduling Policies
Cancellation
- Cancel more than 5 weeks before the test: full refund minus an administration fee (typically 25% of the test fee)
- Cancel less than 5 weeks before the test: no refund in most cases
- If you miss the test without notice: no refund
- Medical emergencies: a partial refund may be available with a doctor's certificate (submit within 5 days)
Rescheduling
- You can usually transfer to a different date if requested more than 5 weeks before the test
- A transfer fee may apply (varies by test centre)
- Transfers less than 5 weeks before the test are generally not permitted
- You cannot transfer between Academic and General Training — you must cancel and rebook
Suggested Preparation Timeline
| Weeks Before Test | Action |
|---|---|
| 8-12 weeks | Book your test. Take a diagnostic practice test to identify strengths and weaknesses. Create a study plan. |
| 6-8 weeks | Focus on your weakest skills. Study vocabulary and grammar. Practise each section regularly. |
| 4-6 weeks | Complete full practice tests under timed conditions. Review and learn from mistakes. |
| 2-4 weeks | Intensive practice with focus on timing. Practise Speaking with a partner or tutor. Refine Writing structure. |
| 1 week | Final practice test. Review common mistakes. Prepare your documents. Check test centre location and arrival time. |
| Day before | Rest. Do not cram. Prepare your ID, photograph and any required stationery. Get a good night's sleep. |