- Since July 2021, IDP Education is the sole administrator of IELTS in India after acquiring the British Council's Indian IELTS business, so all Indian test centres now operate under the IDP IELTS brand
- The IELTS exam fee in India is INR 19,000 for both Academic and General Training, on paper or computer
- IELTS is available in more than 140 countries worldwide.
In today's era, more students study abroad to access quality education and diverse courses. For applicants whose first language is not English, proving English proficiency is essential, and the IELTS exam is one of the most widely recognised ways to do this. It assesses your English across listening, reading, writing, and speaking, and your score can strongly influence your study, work, or immigration goals.
If you plan to sit the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), it helps to find a testing centre conveniently located near you and to choose the right preparation course. This guide explains the IELTS test types, what to bring, the rules at test centres, how to pick a preparation course, and where IDP conducts IELTS across India.
All-in-One IELTS Exam GuideRead →What Are the Types of the IELTS Exam?
IELTS offers two test types: Academic and General Training. Academic suits students applying to universities or professional bodies abroad, while General Training suits migration, work, or below-degree study. Both share identical Listening and Speaking sections, but their Reading and Writing tasks differ to match academic or everyday-English contexts respectively.
There are two types of IELTS exam: Academic and General Training. Both assess four skills - listening, reading, writing, and speaking. The listening and speaking sections are identical across both versions, while the reading and writing sections differ to reflect academic or everyday contexts.
1. Academic IELTS
The Academic test suits learners applying for undergraduate or postgraduate study at an accredited international institution, or those seeking professional registration abroad. It evaluates whether your English is ready for study in an English-speaking environment and is generally considered more challenging than the General Training test.
2. General Training IELTS
General Training suits those applying for study below degree level, work experience, or job training, and those migrating to English-speaking countries such as Australia, Canada, New Zealand, or the UK. It focuses on the everyday English used in social and workplace settings.
How to Book Your IELTS TestRead →Where Are the IELTS Testing Centers in India?
IELTS is conducted across major Indian cities, from Delhi and Mumbai to Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad. Since July 2021, IDP has been the sole administrator of IELTS in India after acquiring the British Council's Indian IELTS business, so every test centre nationwide now operates under the IDP IELTS brand.
IELTS test centres span the country, so students across India can sit the exam without travelling far. Whether you are in Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, or another major city, an IDP IELTS test centre is located nearby.
Since IDP acquired the British Council's Indian IELTS business in July 2021, IDP has been the sole administrator of IELTS in India. All centres that were previously split between the two partners now operate under the single IDP IELTS brand.
What Should You Bring to the IELTS Test Center?
Carry the same valid passport you used to register, since a mismatched or wrong ID will bar you from the exam. Bring your printed admit card, two recent passport-size photographs, and two blue or black ballpoint pens. A clear, label-free water bottle is allowed; gel pens, fountain pens, and extra belongings are not.
Double-check your IELTS test centre's exam timing and date, then follow the points below for a stress-free test day.
- Carry the same identification you used to register. You cannot sit the exam with the wrong ID; for most candidates this is a valid passport.
- Bring two recent passport-size photographs of the type you used to apply for the test.
- Bring a printout of your admit card. It lists your roll number, the exam venue, your name, and the instructions attached to it.
- Bring two blue or black ballpoint pens. Gel pens and fountain pens are strictly prohibited.
- You may bring a small, transparent water bottle without any label or writing. Some centres also provide refreshments.
Beyond these items, read the instructions printed on your admit card carefully to know the full requirements for the examination.
IELTS Tips and Strategies for SuccessRead →What Rules Must You Follow at the IELTS Center?
Arrive at least 30 minutes early, as latecomers may be refused entry to the offline test. Switch off your phone and leave all non-essential belongings, jewellery, and metallic accessories outside the exam room. Food is not permitted inside, and differently-abled candidates can request special facilities by contacting their IELTS test centre in advance.
The IELTS test centre enforces strict rules before and during the exam. Review the points below so you have no trouble at the venue.
- Give yourself plenty of time to reach the test centre. Arriving at least 30 minutes before the scheduled time is strongly advised.
- If you arrive late at an offline IELTS test centre, you may not be allowed to sit the exam, as the rules are strict.
- Switch off your mobile phone and other electronic devices. All non-essential belongings must be left outside the exam room as instructed.
- Wearing jewellery or any metallic accessory is not allowed, so avoid them on exam day.
- Differently-abled candidates can contact their IELTS test centre in advance to arrange additional facilities.
- Food is not permitted inside the IELTS test centre.
What Should You Consider Before Choosing an IELTS Preparation Course?
Before enrolling in an IELTS preparation course, weigh five things: your current English ability, the course structure and study materials, the training provider's track record and reviews, the total fee, and the study time you can realistically commit. Matching these to your target band score helps you pick a course that genuinely adds value.
If you want an IELTS preparation course to support your higher education or job prospects abroad, keep these key considerations in mind before enrolling.
1. Your Existing English Ability
Before you commit to the IELTS, assess your current command of English. Your existing proficiency should be at least average for a course to add real value. If your English is already strong, you may only need to focus on a few specific areas for improvement.
2. Course Structure and Materials
Choose a course that fits your needs, since different IELTS programmes vary in content and structure. Consider the course length, the maximum hours taught per week, the teaching method, and the study materials provided.
3. Training Provider Information
Research the provider to make sure it is reliable and offers strong teaching. Check the institution's track record in helping learners reach their target IELTS scores, and read reviews from students who previously took the course.
4. Fee Structure of the Course
Work out how much you can comfortably spend, as prices vary between providers. Investing in a good training programme improves your chances of achieving the IELTS score you need to reach your study or career goals.
5. Study Time of the Course
Completing an IELTS preparation course takes patience and dedication. Consider how much free time you have, how consistently you can study, and the hours you can set aside for independent practice and revision.
What Are the Top IELTS Preparation Course Modules in India?
A structured IELTS preparation course in India is usually split into four modules covering the four test sections. Module 1 focuses on Reading, Module 2 on Listening, Module 3 on Writing, and Module 4 on Speaking. Each module teaches proven strategies, practice tasks, and sample answers for both Academic and General Training formats.
A typical IELTS preparation course is divided into four modules, each covering one of the four test sections:
Module 1: Reading
This module explains the structure and content of the IELTS Reading test. It covers the goals of the section and the range of topics you may face, and walks you through effective approaches for the Reading tasks in both Academic and General Training tests.
Module 2: Listening
This module focuses on every task type in the Academic and General Listening sections. You practise with recordings of native English speakers and IELTS instructors, analysing your comprehension so you can achieve a strong Listening score.
Module 3: Writing
This module covers the IELTS Writing test and its components, examining how the Academic and General tasks differ. You learn to structure paragraphs, analyse graphs, and produce well-organised writing, supported by practice questions and sample answers.
Module 4: Speaking
This module guides you through each part of the IELTS Speaking test. You practise talking about yourself, handling common examiner questions, using everyday expressions and vocabulary, and organising your thoughts so you sound natural and confident.
Which IDP IELTS Test Centres Are Available Across India?
IDP operates IELTS test centres in cities across India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune, Ahmedabad, Chandigarh, Jaipur, and Kochi, among others. The table below lists sample IDP IELTS venues and addresses so you can choose a location near you and book on either paper or computer.
Whether you are in Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, or another major city, an IDP IELTS test centre is located nearby, with flexible scheduling on paper or computer.
| No. | City | IDP IELTS Centre Address (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Amritsar, Punjab | SCO-57, 3rd Floor,District Shopping Complex,Opposite BSNL Office, B-Block, Ranjit Avenue, Amritsar |
| 2 | Bathinda, Punjab | 2nd Floor, Above Planet Fashion, Adjoining Sagar Ratna, Near Brar Eye Hospital, Opposite Mittal Mall, Goniana Road, Bathinda |
| 3 | Ahmedabad, Gujarat | Office No. 105-106, First Floor, Addor Aspire, Beside Jhanvi Restaurant, Near L.D Engineer College, Gujarat University Area, Gulbai Tekra, Ahmedabad |
| 4 | Bengaluru, Karnataka (Kasturba Road) | No. 23, Prestige TAKT, Sydney Park, Kasturba Road Cross, Ward No. 76, Bengaluru, Karnataka |
| 5 | Bengaluru, Karnataka (Taj West End) | 25, Taj West End, Race Course Road, High Grounds, Bengaluru, Karnataka |
| 6 | Bengaluru, Karnataka (Whitefield) | Office No. 30, 1st Floor, Above Axis Bank, Times Point, Doddanekkundi Industrial Estate, Graphite India Main Road, KEB Colony, Industrial Area, Hoodi, Bangalore |
| 7 | Bengaluru, Karnataka (St. Marks Road) | Unit No. 206, 2nd Floor, 8, Excellency Building, Papanna Street, Off St. Mark's Road, Bangalore |
| 8 | Chandigarh (Sector 34) | SCO 224-225, 3rd Floor, Dakshin Marg, near Virdi Eye Hospital, Opp. Pathania Petrol Pump, Sector 34A, Chandigarh, 160022 |
| 9 | Chandigarh | SCO 40-41, 1st Floor, near Fabindia & Tdi Cinepolis, Sector 17, Chandigarh, Punjab 160017 |
| 10 | Chennai, Tamil Nadu (Vsion Tech Park) | Vsion Tech Park Private Limited, 672/476, 8th Floor, Temple towers, Anna Salai, Nandanam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu |
| 11 | Chennai, Tamil Nadu | Old Door No. 58, New Door No. 97, 2nd Floor, Canberra House, Opposite Govt. Museum, Pantheon Road, Egmore, Chennai |
| 12 | Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu | Helpful Balance India Pvt Ltd, No 204, 3rd floor, Aathishree Tower, Diwan Bahadur Rd, near Axis Bank, R.S. Puram, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu |
| 13 | Gurgaon, Haryana | Global Gateway Towers, Tower B, 5th Floor Sikanderpur Ghosi, Sector 26, M.G. Road, Near Guru Dronacharaya Metro Station, Gurgaon |
| 14 | Hyderabad, Telangana (Taj Deccan) | Taj Deccan , Road No 1,Balapur Basthi,Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, Telangana |
| 15 | Hyderabad, Telangana (Jubilee Hills) | 4th Floor, S.L.Jubilee, Plot no-1202 and 1215A, Road No. 36, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, Telangana |
| 16 | Hyderabad, Telangana (Kukatpally) | 205-207, 2nd Floor, Vijaya Sai Towers, Opp. BJP Office, Above Reliance Digital, Vivek Nagar, Kukatpally, Hyderabad |
| 17 | Hyderabad, Telangana (Begumpet) | 1-8-368 to 382, G. Floor, Gowra Trinity, SP Road, Chiran Fort Club Lane, Opp. US Consulate, Begumpet Secunderabad, Hyderabad |
| 18 | Jaipur, Rajasthan | 402, 4th Floor, Jaipur Center Mall, Tonk Road & B2 Bypass Junction, Sector B4, Jaipur |
| 19 | Jalandhar, Punjab | SCS 66-67, Chotti Baradari Part-2 Opposite PIMS Hospital, Jalandhar |
| 20 | Kochi, Kerala (Kubz) | Kubz, 3rd Floor, Jos Annex,Jos Junction, MG Rd, Kochi, Kerala |
| 21 | Kochi, Kerala | 2nd Floor, Dream Flower, Opp. Little Church, Sahodaran Ayyappan Road, Kadavantra, Kochi |
| 22 | Ludhiana, Punjab | 984/2, Tej Complex, Opp. Passport Office, Link Road, Ludhiana |
| 23 | Mumbai, Maharashtra (Lower Parel) | The Learning Galaxy, 8th floor, Urmi Estate, Tower A, Lower Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra |
| 24 | Mumbai, Maharashtra | Unit No 003, Ground Floor, A wing, Kanakia Wall Street, Next to Western Express Highway, Chakala Andheri-Kurla Road, Hanuman Nagar, Andheri East Mumbai |
| 25 | New Delhi, Delhi (Nehru Place) | Unit No. 313, 3rd Floor, F-Block, International Trade Tower, Nehru Place, New Delhi |
| 26 | New Delhi, Delhi (Rajouri Garden) | A-1/6, Ring Road, Above NEXA Showroom, Rajouri Garden, New Delhi |
| 27 | New Delhi, Delhi (Pitampura) | 14th Floor, Aggarwal Millennium Tower 2, Netaji Subash Place, Pitampura, 110034 |
| 28 | Noida, Uttar Pradesh | 602 (Right Side), K-2, Som Datt Tower, Sector 18, Noida |
| 29 | Pune, Maharashtra (Shivaji Nagar) | 301,302,303 and 305, 3rd Floor, Ramsukh House, Ganeshkhind Road, Shivaji Nagar, Pune, Maharashtra |
| 30 | Pune, Maharashtra | 5th Floor, City Point Building, Above Mainland China, Dhole Patil Road, Near Boat Club, Pune |
| 31 | Surat, Gujarat | 3rd Floor, Solaris The Address, Opp. Big Bazar, Piplod, Dummas Road, Surat |
| 32 | Thane, Maharashtra | Office No 116, First Floor, Lodha Supremus Tower 2, Wagale Estate, Thane (W) |
| 33 | Vadodara, Gujarat | 304, 3rd Floor, Golden Icon, Chakli Circle, Vadodara |
| 34 | Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh (MG Road) | Pothuri Towers, 40-1-140/2, Second Floor, Sri Pothuri Towers, MG Road, Labbipet, Benz Circle Road, Vijayawada |
| 35 | Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh | 2nd Floor, Santhi Plaza, Gayathri Nagar, Near Benz Circle, Vijayawada |
How Should You Choose Your IELTS Center and Course?
Taking IELTS can open doors to higher study or better jobs in English-speaking countries, but preparation matters most. Choose an IDP IELTS test centre near you, then pick a reputable preparation course after checking its track record and reviews. Book early, confirm your test date and ID, and practise consistently to reach your target band.
Choose your institute wisely and check its track record to maximise your chance of success. The centre where you take your preparation course will guide you through the rest before you sit the exam at an IDP IELTS test centre.