When is the IELTS exam conducted in India and how do I book a test date?
IDP conducts IELTS in India year-round: computer-based tests run daily, up to three sessions per day, while paper tests run about four times monthly until 22 August 2026, when the paper format ends. Book on the IDP portal with your passport and pay Rs. 19,000 (Rs. 19,250 UKVI).
In India, IDP Education is the sole body conducting IELTS, and you can take the test virtually any week of the year. Computer-based sittings run daily across major cities, while the paper format runs on fixed Thursdays and Saturdays and is being retired after 22 August 2026. Booking takes minutes online if your passport is ready.
Test Formats, Dates and Fees
| Format | Frequency | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS on Computer | Daily, up to 3 sessions a day, faster results | Rs. 19,000 |
| IELTS on Paper | Up to 4 dates a month, Thursdays and Saturdays, unavailable after 22 August 2026 | Rs. 19,000 |
| IELTS for UKVI | As scheduled at approved centres | Rs. 19,250 |
Booking Steps on the IDP Portal
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1. Choose settings | Pick computer or paper format, Academic or General Training, and your city |
| 2. Select a date | Green highlights on the calendar show open slots; leave room for preparation |
| 3. Enter passport details | A valid passport is mandatory; upload clear scans of the front and back pages |
| 4. Pay online | Card, net banking or wallets; confirmation arrives by email and SMS |
| 5. Await venue details | Final venue and reporting times arrive 5 to 7 days before the exam |
| Offline option | Register at any IDP branch with a passport photocopy; pay by demand draft or bank deposit slip |
My Advice
Book the computer format: daily slots mean you can schedule exactly when your preparation peaks, and results arrive sooner for tight university deadlines. Check your passport validity before paying Rs. 19,000, choose UKVI (Rs. 19,250) only if your UK route specifically demands it, and lock a date 8 to 10 weeks out so a retake is still possible.
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