IELTS Exam Fees 2026 in India (Updated April 1)

Ans. Yes, there has been a rise in the IELTS fees for 2026. Effective April 1, 2026, IDP India raised the fee for both the paper-based IELTS and the computer-delivered IELTS to INR 19,000 for both Academic and General Training formats. For the UKVI version, the fee is INR 19,250. The fee for IELTS Life Skills (A1 & B1) is INR 18,000, and the One Skill Retake is INR 12,650.

Ans. Yes, every time you take the IELTS exam, you must pay the full IELTS exam fee once again. This applies whether it’s your first attempt or if you’re retaking the test to achieve a higher band score. Registering for a retake is essentially the same as registering for an initial IELTS exam; there is no distinction. Each test session requires fresh payment, even if the previous score did not meet your expectations. It’s important to plan ahead and prepare well to avoid multiple retakes.

Ans. It’s essential to note that registering for the IELTS exam requires payment of the official fee. To secure a slot for the IELTS exam, aspirants must possess a valid passport and use a debit/credit card to cover the IELTS registration fee, which amounts to INR 19,000. Without payment of the official fee, registration for the IELTS exam will not be possible.

Ans. IDP does not impose any agent fees for handling applications, which means you can receive assistance at no additional cost. Moreover, numerous universities and colleges may even waive their application fees when you choose to apply through IDP. This makes it an economical option for students looking to study abroad.

Ans. The cost of the IELTS exam is a reflection of its high-quality and meticulous assessment process. Factors contributing to the cost include advanced tools and technologies for accurate evaluations, comprehensive test assessments, ongoing research and development, and the use of highly qualified examiners. Additionally, strict security measures are implemented to maintain the integrity of the exam, ensuring a reliable testing experience.

Ans. Scholarships for IELTS will be granted to Indian students who fulfil the following criteria:

• Residency and Citizenship: Applicants must be residents and citizens of India. 
• Enrollment at Recognised Institutions: Students should be enrolled at a higher education institution that considers IELTS scores as admission criteria. 
• Valid IELTS Score: Applicants must possess a valid IELTS score, with a minimum average band score of 6.5.

Ans. The IELTS exam fees in India are ₹19,000 for both the Academic and General exams, which is consistent across paper-based and computer-delivered formats. While some may find this cost high, it reflects the quality of assessment provided by prestigious institutions like Cambridge and the British Council. Factors such as manual assessment and operational expenses contribute to the fee, ensuring a reliable and valuable testing experience.

Ans. The IELTS registration fee for the Academic test is ₹19,000, applicable to both the pen and paper-based and computer-delivered versions. Similarly, the IELTS General Training test fee is also ₹19,000. For the UKVI version of the exam, the fee is ₹19,250. The fee for IELTS Life Skills (A1 & B1) is INR 18,000, and for One Skill Retake it is INR 12,650.

Ans. There are different payment methods available for paying the IELTS fees. Upon receiving the deposit slip, candidates must deposit the IELTS fees at any ICICI bank branch or HDFC Bank. Attaching a copy of this slip when submitting the IELTS application form at the IDP branch office is essential.

Ans. Yes, IELTS fees can be refunded, but it depends on when you request the refund. If you cancel your test more than five weeks before the test date, you can receive a refund, usually minus an administration fee. However, if you cancel within five weeks of the test date, you may not be eligible for a refund unless there are exceptional circumstances, such as a medical issue. Always check your test centre’s specific refund policy.