What documents do I need to book my IELTS test?

You need a valid, unexpired passport or an accepted national ID, and you must bring the same identity document to the test itself. Check with your test centre which IDs are accepted in your country before you register and pay.

How much does the IELTS test cost in India in 2026?

The IELTS Academic and General Training fee in India is INR 19,000, whether you take the test on paper or computer. IELTS for UKVI costs INR 19,250, IELTS Life Skills costs INR 18,000, and a single One Skill Retake costs INR 12,650.

How do I choose an IELTS test centre and date?

Visit the British Council or IDP website, search for test centres in your city or region, and compare the available dates. Choose a centre that is easy to reach and a date that leaves enough time to prepare and to receive your results before any deadline.

Is IELTS available on computer or only on paper?

IELTS is available on both computer and paper, and the content, format, timing, and scoring are the same for both. In India the fee is identical for either option, so you can choose based on your comfort with typing or handwriting.

Can I retake just one section of IELTS?

Yes. The One Skill Retake lets you resit a single section, Listening, Reading, Writing, or Speaking, instead of the whole test, if you took your original computer-based test at a participating centre. In India the One Skill Retake fee is INR 12,650.

How long does the IELTS test take?

The full test takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes. Listening, Reading, and Writing are completed on the same day with no breaks, while the 11 to 14 minute Speaking test may be taken on the same day or up to a week before or after the others.

How to Book Your IELTS Test: Step-by-Step 2026 Guide

One of the world's most well-known examinations of English language proficiency is the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).

The IELTS test can be a critical step in accomplishing your goals, whether you want to study abroad, immigrate, or work in an English-speaking nation.

This guide walks you through how to book your IELTS exam. It also reviews the different IELTS test formats, why they matter, and what each one assesses.

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Verified 2026 Updates:

IELTS is jointly owned by the British Council, IDP IELTS, and Cambridge University Press and Assessment, and is accepted by more than 12,500 organisations in over 140 countries
In India the Academic and General Training fee is INR 19,000, IELTS for UKVI is INR 19,250, and IELTS Life Skills is INR 18,000
The full test runs about 2 hours 45 minutes and is available on computer or paper, with an optional One Skill Retake.

What Is the IELTS Test?

IELTS tips and strategies for successRead →

Why Is the IELTS Test Important?

How IELTS band scores workRead →

What Are the IELTS Test Types?

Academic IELTS Test

General Training Test for IELTS

What Does the IELTS Exam Measure?

Listening

Reading

Writing

Speaking

Complete IELTS exam guideRead →

How Do You Book the IELTS Exam?

IELTS Test Type (India 2026)	Fee (INR)
Academic / General Training (paper or computer)	19,000
IELTS for UKVI	19,250
IELTS Life Skills (A1/B1)	18,000
One Skill Retake	12,650

Step 1: Find Your Nearest IELTS Test Centre

Step 2: Select the IELTS Test Type

IELTS Academic: for people applying to undergraduate or graduate programmes, or registering with professional bodies in English-speaking countries. It assesses English in academic contexts such as lectures, seminars, and research.
IELTS General Training: for people seeking work or immigration to an English-speaking country. It measures everyday English used with colleagues, friends, and officials.

Step 3: Check Test Costs and Payment Options

Step 4: Register and Schedule Your Test

Step 5: Prepare for the Test

Step 6: Request Special Arrangements if Needed

Disabilities or medical conditions that require special equipment or arrangements, such as extra time, large-print materials, or a sign language interpreter.
Specific needs relating to conditions such as dyslexia or attention deficit disorder that may affect test performance.
Modified test formats, including Braille, enlarged print, or a special version of the Listening test, arranged in advance with the centre.