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

If you're planning to study abroad, the IELTS exam is often the first step. It’s not just a test. It’s the key to proving your English skills to global universities.

You can register for the IELTS exam in a few simple steps. The process is quick, straightforward, and available both online and offline. You have the freedom to choose your test date and time, based on what’s available. But that choice won’t wait. Slots fill up fast, especially during peak admission months. So if you're sure about applying, don’t delay your registration.

The IELTS exam fee in India is ₹18,000. You can pay this online using net banking, a debit or credit card, or even Paytm.

IELTS Registration 2025 (online)

The paper-based test is held on 48 pre-fixed dates across the year, usually up to four times a month. These dates are fixed, and seats tend to fill quickly.

The computer-based version gives you more flexibility. It's available seven days a week, with up to three slots daily. This format may suit you better if you're working with a tight university deadline or need faster results.

To book your slot, follow these steps on the official IDP IELTS website:

1. Visit ieltsidpindia.com
2. Click on ‘Register for IELTS’
3. Choose between Computer-based and Paper-based formats
4. Select your module: Academic or General Training
5. Pick your city and test centre
6. Choose a test date and available time slot
7. Fill in your details as per your passport
8. Upload a scanned colour copy of your valid passport
9. Add institutions where you want to send your scores
10. Review your application carefully
11. Pay the fee of ₹18,000
12. Save your acknowledgement receipt

Once your booking is confirmed, you'll receive a notification on your registered email and mobile number.

If you're booking a paper-based test and your preferred slot is unavailable, the system will assign you the next available time automatically.

How to apply for IELTS Exam Offline?

Prefer completing your registration in person? You can apply for the IELTS exam offline at any authorised IDP centre in India. There are two offline methods available, both equally valid, based on what feels more convenient to you.

Method 1: Register at an IDP Centre Using a Computer

You don’t need to carry a laptop or fill out long forms. Here’s what you’ll do:

1. Visit your nearest IDP IELTS test centre
2. Use the available computer to fill out the online application
3. Carry a clear photocopy of your passport (first and last pages)
4. Sign the Terms & Conditions provided at the centre
5. Pay the fee of ₹18,000 using a credit or debit card
6. Collect your acknowledgement letter instantly

Method 2: Apply with a Physical Application Form

If you prefer handwritten forms, this method will work better for you.

1. Collect the registration form from the IDP office
2. Fill it out carefully with accurate details
3. Attach:
   • One recent passport-sized photograph
   • A photocopy of your passport (first and last pages)
4. Sign the Terms & Conditions form
5. Pay the exam fee of ₹18,000 using one of the following:
   • Credit or debit card
   • Demand Draft (in favour of IDP Education India Pvt. Ltd.)
   • ICICI bank deposit slip (with proof of payment attached)
6. Submit the completed form at the centre
7. Collect your acknowledgement slip

Both methods ensure your seat is confirmed once the payment is made and documents are verified.

Method 3: Register for IELTS by Courier

You don’t need to visit the centre if you prefer registering remotely.

Follow these steps:

1. Download the IELTS registration form from the official IDP website
2. Fill in the required details accurately
3. Attach a photocopy of your passport (first and last pages)
4. Sign the Terms & Conditions document
5. Pay the ₹18,000 exam fee via:
   • Demand Draft in favour of IDP Education India Pvt. Ltd.
   • ICICI or HDFC deposit slip (attach the payment proof)
6. Send the complete set of documents to:
   IDP Education India Pvt. Ltd.
   Global Gateway Towers, Tower-B, 5th Floor
   Sikanderpur Ghosi, Sector-26
   M.G. Road, Gurugram - 122002, Haryana, India

Your application will be processed once the documents arrive and the seat is available.

IELTS Slot Booking 2025

Choosing your IELTS test date and location is a key step. You control when and where you take the exam; just make sure you book early to avoid missing out.

How to Book Your IELTS Slot

1. Pick a Test Centre Nearby

Start by selecting a test centre that works for you. Locations vary across India, so check the official IELTS site or UniScholars for the full list.

2. Check Available Dates

Test dates depend on the centre and demand. Paper-based tests happen on fixed dates, usually up to 48 times a year. Computer-based tests run daily, with several sessions each day. Plan accordingly.

3. Register Online

Provide your personal details exactly as they appear on your passport. Select your test type: Academic or General Training. Accuracy here avoids issues later.

4. Make Payment

Pay ₹18,000 using debit/credit cards, net banking, or other accepted digital methods. Keep your payment details handy before starting.

5. Confirm and Save Your Booking

Once payment clears, you will get a confirmation email with your exam date, time, and venue. Save this; print it or keep it on your phone.

6. Prepare for Your Test

Use official study guides and practice tests to familiarise yourself with the exam format and reduce surprises on the day.

Deadlines You Cannot Miss

• You may register for computer-based tests as late as 72 hours before your test date.
   
• For paper-based tests, registration closes six days before the test or when seats fill up, whichever comes first. Early booking is essential.

Important Details to Keep in Mind

• You must be at least 16 years old to sit for the IELTS exam.
• Your registration details must exactly match the passport you will carry on test day.
• Have your passport ready when you register and bring it with you to the test centre.
• Keep your debit or credit card ready when booking online to avoid delays.

Documents Required for IELTS Registration

Your valid Indian passport is the only mandatory document for registering for the IELTS exam. You must provide your passport details during registration and upload a clear, scanned copy of the first and last page.

Remember: You must carry the same passport to your test centre on exam day. Without it, you cannot take the test.

Passport Upload Guidelines

When submitting your passport scan online, ensure:

• File format is JPG, PNG, JPEG, or PDF
• File size does not exceed 1 MB
• The image is clear and legible (no blurs or shadows)

Following these instructions carefully avoids delays in your registration.

Additional Documents and Information You May Need

What Happens After You Book the IELTS Test?

Once you’ve secured your IELTS test slot through the IDP website, here’s what to expect next:

1. Confirmation Email

You’ll get an email confirming your test date, time, venue, and your candidate number. This message will also include important instructions. Keep it safe and accessible.

2. Access to Your IELTS Dashboard

Log into your IDP account to view your test details, download your admission ticket (if needed), and view your results later. It’s your hub for all exam-related updates.

3. Start Your Preparation

Sharpen your skills with official study materials and practice tests from IDP. Set a study routine that fits your schedule and stick to it for the best results.

4. Verify Your ID

Before the test day, ensure your passport or accepted ID is valid and matches the details you provided during registration. Don’t forget to carry the same ID to the test centre.

5. Speaking Test Schedule

Your speaking test may be on the same day as your written exam or scheduled separately. Your confirmation email or online account will share the exact timing.

6. Receiving Your Results

• Computer-based test results are available within 3 to 5 days.
• Paper-based test results take up to 13 days.

You will be notified when your scores are ready and can access them through your IDP account.

IELTS Exam Dates 2025

Choosing the right IELTS test date is crucial for your study plans and application deadlines. The exam is offered regularly throughout the year, giving you ample opportunities to select a date that fits your schedule. 

IDP IELTS India offers the paper-based IELTS exam on 48 days throughout the year. If you prefer the computer-based test, it is available every day of the week, with up to three sessions daily. You can select a date and time that suits your schedule.

IELTS Test Centres 2025

The IELTS exam is held across 75 cities in India. With over 3.5 million test takers worldwide every year, securing your slot at the right test centre and date is mission-critical.

IDP has strategically placed test centres all over India to make access convenient for aspirants. Whether you’re in a bustling metro or a tier-2 city, there’s likely a centre near you. Here’s the full list of test locations where you can take the IELTS exam in 2025:

IELTS on Computer vs IELTS on Paper (CBT vs PBT)

When it comes to IELTS, you’ve got two main formats to choose from: Computer-delivered IELTS (CBT) and Paper-based IELTS (PBT). Both are similar in terms of content, structure, and format, but your experience changes based on your vibe and style.