The IELTS exam in India is held all year round. There are about 4 IELTS test dates for paper based every month, so around 48 fixed dates in a year. But test availability can change depending on IELTS module. IELTS Academic is conducted on all 48 dates. IELTS General Training is held only on 24 dates. For computer-delivered IELTS, dates are 7 days a week and up to 3 times a day. This helps more candidates to register for IELTS exam. Paper-delivered IELTS by IDP is up to 4 times a month. You can pick the IELTS exam date that fits you best. IELTS exam slots fill fast so better to register and book your IELTS test early. More info about IELTS exam dates 2026 is below.
IELTS Test Dates in India 2026
The IELTS exam in India is conducted throughout the year by IDP. You can choose between the Paper-based or Computer-delivered formats depending on your comfort.
| Test Mode | Frequency | Best For... |
|---|---|---|
| Paper-Based | 4 times per month (48 dates/year) | People who prefer pen and paper. |
| Computer-Delivered | Daily (7 days a week) | Fast results and flexible scheduling. |
- IELTS Exam Dates in India
- IELTS Test Dates India - Monthly Calendar
- How to Cancel or Reschedule IELTS Exam?
- How to Check IELTS Exam Date Availability?
- When should you take the IELTS test?
- Peak Demand Months for IELTS Exam in India
- How to Select the Right IELTS Exam Date?
- City-wise IELTS exam dates 2026 in India
- IELTS Exam Dates FAQs
IELTS Exam Dates in India
The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is one of the most popular English proficiency tests for study, work, or migration abroad. In India, the test is primarily administered by IDP Education, with test centers available in over 140 locations across major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Pune, Ahmedabad, and many others.
IELTS is offered in two main formats in India:
- IELTS on Computer (also called computer-delivered): Available almost daily (up to 7 days a week, with multiple slots per day in many centers), offering greater flexibility.
- IELTS on Paper: Conducted on fixed dates, typically up to 4 times per month (around 48 dates annually), usually on Thursdays or Saturdays.
IELTS Test Dates in India for Computer-Based
The computer-delivered IELTS is the best choice if you need your results quickly or want a flexible schedule. In 2026, IDP IELTS India will offer computer tests almost every day of the week, excluding only national holidays and major festivals.
Most centers offer 3 slots per day:
- Slot 1: 09:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Slot 2: 01:00 PM – 04:00 PM
- Slot 3: 05:00 PM – 08:00 PM
IELTS Exam Dates in India for Paper-Based
If you prefer writing with a pen and paper, the paper-delivered IELTS is still a very popular choice in India. For 2026, IDP IELTS has scheduled 48 fixed test dates to give students and professionals plenty of options.
Most of these tests happen on Saturdays or Thursdays. Because these dates are fixed across the country, slots in big IELTS Test Centres in cities like Hyderabad, Punjab, or Delhi get full very quickly. It is smart to book your seat at least 3 to 4 weeks before you want to take the exam.
IELTS Test Availability 2026
-
IELTS Academic: This is for students. It is available on all 48 dates in 2026.
-
IELTS General Training: This is for migration or work. It is available on 24 dates (usually two Thursdays and two Saturdays per month).
To stay on track, include a regular IELTS online mock test in your study plan so you are fully prepared before your actual exam date.
Commonly asked questions
Yes, you can prepare for IELTS in three months. If you study every day, follow a plan or consider joining IELTS coaching it can be possible. Prep time can be different for each student.
Actually, there is no limit to appear for IELTS exam. You can re-take it as many times you want. But experts say, you should not take the test more than once in a period of two months. Also, you have to pay the fee everytime you take the test, which can be very expensive also. But if you are okay with paying the fee infinite times you can take the test unlimited number of times. Also, it does not make any sense taking the test again and again. After a maximum of 3 attempts, you should know that your scores are not going to change. So, try hard and give your best the first attempt.
The IELTS exam is offered multiple times a month. The IELTS test dates vary by test center. The IELTS exam dates for computer are available on almsot every date on the basis of availabilty. While, the IELTS Paper-delivered test are available up to 4 times a month.
IELTS Test Dates India - Monthly Calendar
The IELTS exam dates 2026 are available throughout the year for both paper-based and computer-based tests. The IELTS test schedule may vary by test centre and format, with many paper-based exams commonly held on weekends. Candidates should check the official calendar below to view available dates and plan their IELTS slot booking accordingly.
January IELTS Exam Dates 2026
| IELTS Test Date | Test Type |
|---|---|
| Saturday, 10th January 2026 | Academic and General Training |
| Saturday, 24th January 2026 | Academic |
| Saturday, 31st January 2026 | Academic |
Official IELTS Exam Dates in February
| IELTS Test Date | Test Type |
|---|---|
| Saturday, 7th February 2026 | Academic and General Training |
| Saturday, 14th February 2026 | Academic |
| Saturday, 21st February 2026 | Academic and General Training |
| Saturday, 28th February 2026 | Academic |
March IELTS Exam Dates 2026
| IELTS Test Date | Test Type |
|---|---|
| Saturday, 7th March 2026 | Academic and General Training |
| Saturday, 14th March 2026 | Academic |
| Saturday, 21st March 2026 | Academic and General Training |
April IELTS Test Dates 2026
| IELTS Test Date | Test Type |
|---|---|
| Saturday, 4th April 2026 | Academic |
| Saturday, 11th April 2026 | Academic and General Training |
| Saturday, 25th April 2026 | Academic and General Training |
Official IELTS Exam Dates in May 2026
| IELTS Test Date | Test Type |
|---|---|
| Saturday, 2nd May 2026 | Academic |
| Thursday, 7th May 2026 | Academic and General Training |
| Saturday, 16th May 2026 | Academic |
| Saturday, 23rd May 2026 | Academic and General Training |
June IELTS Exam Dates 2026
| IELTS Test Date | Test Type |
|---|---|
| Saturday, 6th June 2026 | Academic and General Training |
| Saturday, 13th June 2026 | Academic |
| Saturday, 20th June 2026 | Academic and General Training |
| Saturday, 27th June 2026 | Academic |
Commonly asked questions
In India, most IELTS tests are held on Thursdays and Saturdays. These are the regular days for both paper-based and computer-based exams. The computer based IELTS exam is conducted on almost every day.
You can see the full monthly IELTS test calendar on the official IDP IELTS India website and on the Shiksha study abroad website.
Academic is available almost every week, so 4 times a month. But General Training dates are less, usually only 2 times a month. So book your General seat quickly before it gets full.
How to Cancel or Reschedule IELTS Exam?
Candidates can reschedule the IELTS test only if the exam date is at least 9 days away from the day they submit the transfer request. To change the IELTS test date, candidates must submit a request through their test portal and provide valid supporting documents. The request will be reviewed, and the new test date will be confirmed only after approval. You can cancel or change (reschedule) your IELTS test date, but there are some rules and fees. The process is easy if you do it early.
Main Rules You Should Know
- Contact your test centre (IDP India) as soon as possible.
- The earlier you ask, the more money you get back (refund).
- Most centres allow you to change the date only once.
- New date must usually be within 3 months of your old date.
- If you are very sick or have a serious problem, you may get special help (show proof like a medical report).
Refund Rules (very common)
- More than 5 weeks before the test: Full refund minus small fee (around INR 2,000-INR 5,000) or free change.
- 2–5 weeks before: Partial refund (maybe 50%) or higher fee to change.
- Less than 1–2 weeks before: Usually no refund and no change (unless emergency).
Simple Steps to Cancel or Reschedule
Candidates can cancel the IELTS exam if the test date is 9 days or more away from the date of cancellation request. To cancel the IELTS test, candidates must submit a request along with supporting documents. The cancellation will be processed only after the request is approved.
- Find your test centre contact: Check your booking email or go to the official website (British Council or IDP India).
- Call or email them quickly: Tell them:
- Your full name
- Passport number
- Test date
- Booking number
- Say what you want
- “I want to reschedule / change my test date”
- OR “I want to cancel and get refund”
- Fill the form if they ask: Many centres have a simple “Transfer / Cancellation Form”. Download it from their website or ask them to send it.
- Wait for reply: They will tell you:
- New date (if changing)
- How much refund you get
- When you will receive the money (usually 15–30 days)
Once the IELTS cancellation request is approved, the refund amount will be processed within 7–10 business days after deducting the applicable administrative charges.
Commonly asked questions
If you are really sick and have a medical paper, you can apply for refund or new date. You must show medical proof within 5 days after test date. If they accept, they cut admin fee but return the rest.
Yes, but you need to cancel it before 9 days of your test date. You will get a refund after they cut some admin charges, around INR 4,500. If you cancel after that, no refund is given.
You can transfer for free only if you do it more than 5 weeks before test. After that, if it's not an emergency, they charge you full fee. Only serious issues like health or emergency are accepted for late changes.
How to Check IELTS Exam Date Availability?
Candidates can easily check IELTS exam date availability online before booking the test. Visit the official IELTS booking website and choose your country, city, and preferred test type (IELTS on Computer or IELTS on Paper). After selecting these details, the system will show the available IELTS test dates and nearby test centres.
You can then select the date that suits your schedule and continue with the IELTS test registration process. It is recommended to check and book your IELTS exam date early, as popular test dates and centres may fill up quickly, especially during peak admission seasons.
Commonly asked questions
You can take IELTS test in paper mode up to 4 times a month, which makes around 48 fixed test dates all year.
Not always. IELTS Academic is available on all 48 paper dates. However, General Training is usually only available on 24 dates (about twice a month) for the paper format. On computer, both are available daily.
Yes, if you book IELTS on paper, you can often pick your Speaking slot during registration. For the computer test, the speaking part is usually on the same day or very close to your main test date.
When should you take the IELTS test?
You should take the IELTS test when you are fully prepared and close to your university application deadlines. Most universities accept IELTS scores that are valid for two years, so it is best to take the test about 6 to 12 months before applying to universities.
This gives you enough time to retake the IELTS exam if your score is lower than the required band score. Students planning to study abroad should also check the IELTS score requirements of their chosen universities before booking the exam date. Taking the test early helps avoid last-minute stress during the admission and visa process.
Commonly asked questions
Yes, A valid passport is mandatory. You need to upload a scan when you book and bring the original passport on the IELTS exam day. No other ID is accepted.
Yes, you can change IELTS test date after booking. But there are some rules. If you ask to change the date more than 5 weeks before the test, it is free. If you ask less than 5 weeks before the test, then you need to pay 10% of IELTS test fee. So, always try to plan early to save money.
It is best to book at least 1 to 2 months in advance. High-demand months (like before university deadlines) and Saturday slots fill up very fast. Avoid last minute booking of IELTS slots.
Peak Demand Months for IELTS Exam in India
The IELTS exam dates in India are available throughout the year, but certain months see higher demand due to global admission cycles and study abroad intakes. Understanding these IELTS peak months can help you plan your test better.
- January to March: This is a high-demand period, as many students take the test to meet deadlines for the Fall (September) intake at international universities.
- June to August: Demand rises again as students complete their IELTS requirement before final admission and visa deadlines.
- September to November: Moderate demand is seen from students targeting Spring intake programs.
During these peak periods, IELTS test slots may fill quickly, especially in major cities. It is recommended to book your test date in advance. You should also plan your timeline alongside student visa application deadlines to avoid last-minute delays in your study abroad journey.
Commonly asked questions
No, you can't book IELTS exam date without paying the IELTS booking fees. Candidates have to pay the IELTS exam fees of Rs. 18,000 for successful booking of test.
Booking an IELTS exam centre is not very difficult. Applicants can either register for the chosen IELTS exam centre online or go to the nearest IDP kiosk and choose for one. 75+ IELTS exam centres are available across various Indian cities. Thus, applicants will be able to book their IELTS test centres easily based on the available exam centres in India. When applicants will be registering on IDP's website for IELTS exam, they can directly choose their exam centre and register for the exam. On the other hand, when registering offline, people at IDP can help applicants choose their exam centres.
Yes, you can select your preferred IELTS test date and location while booking via the official IDP website.
To check IELTS exam slots, you can do it like this:
Go to the official IDP IELTS India website. Here you get the latest info about IELTS test dates and slots.
Select your test type – Academic or General Training.
- Choose your test center or city.
- Then you will see the IELTS slot availability on a calendar:
- Green = slot available
- White = not available
- Red = already full
- Black = you selected this slot
This way you can quickly find and book your IELTS exam date.
How to Select the Right IELTS Exam Date?
Choosing the right IELTS exam date is important for proper preparation and meeting university deadlines. First, check the application deadlines of your chosen universities and plan to take the IELTS test at least 2-3 months before the deadline. This gives you enough time to receive your results and retake the test if needed.
You should also select a date when you feel fully prepared with IELTS practice tests and mock exams. Avoid booking the test during busy academic schedules or important personal commitments. Booking your IELTS exam date early also helps you get your preferred test centre and time slot.
Commonly asked questions
The best month for IELTS exam booking depends upon your study abroad plan. Like if you want to apply for mid-year then January to March is good time. But if you are planning for next year Fall intake, then August to October is better for you. You should see the university deadlines first and then book IELTS test accordingly.
If you are thinking of studying abroad, you should take IELTS academic. The IELTS General Training is test for who wants to work abroad. Check for the visa requirements before applying for test.
Mostly the dates are fixed across India, but seat availability can change. Some smaller test centres might not have exams on every date, so always check the city wise dates first.
City-wise IELTS exam dates 2026 in India
Commonly asked questions
Candidates should check the IELTS monthly calendar because test dates fill very fast. Not every IELTS test centre give the same dates. The monthly calendar help you to plan better and book IELTS slot early. This way you will not miss your seat or choose a date too soon for your IELTS preparation.
Usually, the IELTS paper test is only on Thursdays and Saturdays. But the computer-delivered IELTS test often has slots on Sundays in big cities. You will get to know about the IELTS available dates while booking the slot only.
IELTS speaking test will be taken on the same day of test when you are taking IELTS on computer. The sequence of IELTS speaking test might vary, either before, or after the other three parts of the test.
IELTS Exam Dates FAQs
Commonly asked questions
Yes, A valid passport is mandatory. You need to upload a scan when you book and bring the original passport on the IELTS exam day. No other ID is accepted.
Yes, you can change IELTS test date after booking. But there are some rules. If you ask to change the date more than 5 weeks before the test, it is free. If you ask less than 5 weeks before the test, then you need to pay 10% of IELTS test fee. So, always try to plan early to save money.
It is best to book at least 1 to 2 months in advance. High-demand months (like before university deadlines) and Saturday slots fill up very fast. Avoid last minute booking of IELTS slots.
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