IELTS 2024 : Exam Dates, Registration, Fees, Eligibility, Syllabus, Question Papers, Results

The IELTS exam is widely recognised as a key test for those planning to study, work, or migrate to English-speaking countries. It opens doors to global opportunities by assessing your English language skills. Importantly, there are no rigid eligibility requirements to take the IELTS. The primary criterion set by IDP is that candidates must be at least 16 years old to register for the exam.

To book your IELTS test, simply complete the registration process and pay the fee of INR 18,000. There is no maximum age limit, meaning anyone aged 16 or above can sit for the IELTS exam.

IELTS Eligibility Criteria 2025

If you’re planning to study abroad, the IELTS exam may be your starting point. Before you begin, let’s settle one question. Are you eligible to take the IELTS exam? Yes, if you're at least 16 and have a valid passport.

You don’t need a specific degree, and there is no restriction based on nationality or academic record. The exam is open to everyone who wants to study or move abroad.

The test, conducted by IDP, covers four skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. It is accepted in 140+ countries, including the UK, US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Many students assume they must meet strict rules to appear for IELTS. That’s not true. The requirements are simple. 

You do not need any minimum educational qualification to take the IELTS exam. The test is open to everyone, regardless of your academic background.

IELTS measures your English language skills. It is designed for people who want to study, work, or live in countries where English is the main language.

Whether you have completed school or not, you can register for the test. Your decision to take IELTS should depend on your own language goals. Also, check the requirements of the university, employer, or immigration body you are applying to.

There is no single minimum IELTS score that applies to all universities. Each institution sets its own admission standards, including specific IELTS score requirements.

These requirements vary depending on the country and the course of study. For example, universities in the UK, Australia, and Canada often require scores ranging from 6.0 to 7.5 overall.

It is advisable to aim for the highest possible band score to increase your chances of admission. Meeting or exceeding your chosen university’s minimum IELTS score is essential for your application. If you have already selected a university, check their official website for detailed IELTS score requirements. 

IELTS scores are accepted by over 140 countries worldwide. Some of the main countries requiring IELTS scores for study, work, or migration include:

• United States
• United Kingdom
• Australia
• Canada
• New Zealand
• Ireland

Most countries do not impose specific eligibility rules to take the IELTS exam. However, universities and immigration authorities in each country may set minimum band score requirements.

Below is a summary of IELTS exam eligibility and typical minimum score ranges for popular study destinations:

IELTS Eligibility UK

Planning to study in the UK means understanding the IELTS score expectations for different courses. The IELTS exam eligibility for the UK focuses mainly on your language proficiency rather than academic qualifications.

• Master’s Degree: To apply for a master’s programme, you need to have completed a bachelor’s degree. Most UK universities expect an overall IELTS score of 6.0 or above. Leading universities usually require a score of 6.5 or higher to consider your application.
   
• Pre-Master’s Programmes: These courses help improve your English skills before starting a master’s degree. Generally, a minimum IELTS band score of 5.0 is needed to enrol.
   
• Undergraduate Courses: For bachelor’s degrees, an IELTS score of at least 6.5 is typically necessary. Top-tier universities in the UK may ask for scores of 7.0 or more.

IELTS Eligibility Australia

Meeting the IELTS eligibility criteria is key if you aim to study in Australia. The country sets distinct score expectations based on your level of study.

• Postgraduate Degrees: Typically, you need an overall IELTS band score of 6.5. Additionally, no individual section score should fall below 6.0. This standard ensures you have a solid command of English across all skills.
   
• Undergraduate Degrees: The minimum IELTS score generally required for bachelor's programmes is an overall band of 6.0.

These requirements can vary between universities and courses, so it’s essential to check the specific IELTS score required by your chosen institution before applying.

IELTS Eligibility USA

Most universities in the United States accept applicants with an overall IELTS band score ranging from 6.0 to 6.5. This range covers a broad spectrum of undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

If your goal is admission to highly competitive or top-ranked universities, it is advisable to aim for a higher IELTS score, often above 6.5. Achieving a stronger band score will improve your chances and meet stricter language proficiency standards.

IELTS Exam Eligibility Canada

When applying to study in Canada, IELTS requirements depend on your level of study and the specific programme.

• Student Direct Stream (SDS): For faster visa processing, candidates must have an overall IELTS band score of at least 6.0, with no section below 6.0.
   
• Postgraduate Courses: To enrol in postgraduate programmes such as master’s degrees or PG diplomas, you generally need a minimum overall IELTS score of 6.5. Individual band score requirements vary, typically ranging between 5.5 and 6.0 depending on the institution.
   
• Undergraduate Courses: Most universities require an overall IELTS band of 6.0 for bachelor’s degrees, diplomas, or short-term courses. Each section should ideally not fall below 5.5.

IELTS Exam Eligibility New Zealand

If you plan to study in New Zealand, your IELTS score needs will depend on your chosen programme.

• Master’s Degree: Most institutions require an overall IELTS band score of at least 6.0 to qualify for admission.
   
• Bachelor’s Degree: The minimum IELTS score generally accepted for undergraduate courses is an overall band of 5.5.

These requirements may vary by university and course, so always verify the exact IELTS criteria with your preferred institution before applying.