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How many times a year can I take the paper-delivered IELTS test?

24 Sept 2026 · Answered by Pushplata Gaddmwar · 1 min read
Quick Answer verified

The IELTS paper delivered test is held 48 times a year, which works out to about four sessions every month depending on demand. You can choose any date that suits your schedule, and if your preferred slot fills up, you will automatically be offered another available date.

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You have a good number of chances to sit for the paper delivered IELTS, since it runs 48 times a year across roughly four sessions every month. This gives you room to plan your test date around your study abroad application deadlines instead of scrambling for a single fixed slot.

IELTS Paper Delivered Test Frequency

DetailInformation
Sessions Per Year48
Average Sessions Per MonthAbout 4
Date ChoiceAny available date you prefer
If Slot Is FullYou are automatically offered another date

How This Compares to the Computer Delivered Option

If you need more flexibility, the computer delivered IELTS runs every day of the week and even allows multiple attempts in a single day when seats are open, unlike the fixed monthly cycle of the paper version.

My Advice

Lock in your paper delivered test date early, especially if you are targeting a busy month, since seats in your city can fill up fast. Check availability well before your application deadline so a full slot never forces you into a last minute scramble.

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