When is the TOEFL exam conducted in India in 2026 and how do I register?
The TOEFL iBT runs multiple times every month across Indian cities in 2026, mostly on Saturdays and Sundays, and the Home Edition runs four days a week. Register on the ETS portal up to 7 days before your date, pay about Rs. 18,000, and book 2-3 months ahead of deadlines.
There is no single national TOEFL date; ETS conducts the iBT several times every month across major Indian cities in 2026, mostly on Saturdays and Sundays, while the Home Edition is available four days a week around the clock. You register entirely online through the official ETS TOEFL portal, and standard booking closes 7 days before test day. Your only real job is to pick a date that protects your university deadlines.
TOEFL 2026 Fees and Booking Deadlines in India
| Item | Deadline | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Standard registration | Closes 7 days before the exam | About Rs. 18,000 including 18% GST |
| Late registration | Up to 2 days before the exam | Extra Rs. 3,300 to 3,900 penalty |
| Rescheduling | At least 4 days in advance | Around Rs. 5,000 |
| Retakes | Minimum 3-day gap between attempts | Full fee applies each time |
How to Register Step by Step
| Step | What You Do |
|---|---|
| Create your ETS account | Enter your name exactly as printed in your passport, the only accepted ID at Indian centres |
| Choose format and city | Pick a test centre iBT or the Home Edition and browse a 2-month date window |
| Select a slot | Morning, afternoon or evening sessions depending on the centre |
| Add score recipients | Send scores to up to 4 universities free of charge |
| Pay and confirm | Use cards, net banking or PayPal; a confirmation email lists your reporting time and centre rules |
My Advice
Work backwards from your earliest university deadline and book a slot 2 to 3 months before it, since official score delivery takes time. If you are applying in the August to December rush, lock your seat about 4 months ahead because weekend slots in metro cities fill fastest. Keep a buffer date in mind too; the 3-day retake gap means one weak attempt does not have to sink your application season.
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