IELTS is one of the most prominent English language tests in the world. Students who are willing to give or appear for IELTS this year can apply on the official website of IDP as the British Council is no longer delivering the IELTS test in India. The British Council officially announced this on July 25, 2021, when IDP will be the sole distributor of IELTS testing in India. As IELTS is one of the most popular official English exams worldwide, especially for work and study abroad, most students look for different options to fund their education abroad.

If you are looking for an education loan to study abroad, connect with our team at WeMakeScholars. We will get you the best deal possible and assist you throughout the education loan procedure. As we are government-funded, we do not charge any fees from the students. So feel free to connect with us. If you have any queries you can request a callback, our team will connect with you and help with the end-to-end process.

Stay tuned till the end of this article to know all the important details of the IELTS exam.

What is IELTS?

International English Language Testing System is a standardized examination for eligibility to study, work, and emigrate to English-speaking countries. Co-owned by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia, Cambridge Assessment English, and IELTS has turned into one of the most trusted English assessment tests across the globe, covering 4 crucial language skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.

The IELTS exam offers two main types: The IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training. The Academic version is intended for those wishing to study at higher education and professional registration, while the General Training version is designed for those who want to seek employment, immigration, or training in an English-speaking country. The Acceptance of IELTS by over 11,000 institutions across 140 countries makes it an accepted admission requirement around the globe and more than any other test.

Of late, statistics suggest that IELTS is one of the most widely taken language proficiency tests worldwide, with around 3 million candidates taking the exam each year. As the number of IELTS test takers continues to rise, year in and year out, this is due to increasing global migration, international education, and opportunities for work. Being able to speak English is a big step in reaching career and education goals in English-speaking countries for more candidates from non–English speaking countries like India and many other countries. For more information about IELTS, keep reading. 

Purpose of the IELTS

The popularity of IELTS stems from its comprehensive structure, international recognition, and alignment with diverse purposes, including:

  1. Higher Education:
    If you want to study in English-speaking countries, particularly undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral studies, IELTS is a main requirement. Universities in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and other countries often set minimum IELTS scores, to ensure international students have the language skills required for an academic experience.

  2. Immigration:
    During immigration procedures, IELTS scores are adored by English-speaking countries such as Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the UK. The IELTS General Training is used by applicants who wish to work in a new country and also by those applicants who wish to become a permanent resident or a citizen of a new country. This language skills-focused approach should aim to bring language learning as well as cultural integration and economic participation to the newcomer integration.

  3. Professional Certification and Employment:
    IELTS is also a requirement for candidates who want to join many professional organizations, for example in healthcare, finance, engineering, etc. The passing of the IELTS Academic test has been sometimes used as proof of language proficiency necessary to obtain a license and to practice in sectors in which language proficiency is essential for the safe and optimal performance of the service.

  4. Career Advancement:
    English language proficiency is becoming more and more important in workplaces by the process of globalization, not only in English-speaking countries. As a rule in multinational companies, IELTS scores give an applicant a competitive edge and often enough to open the door for an application to international opportunities.

  5. Personal Development:
    In addition to practical benefits, taking the IELTS test preparation is a great language-learning tool as it helps improve vocabulary, and communication skills, and generally increases confidence in English. A rigorous assessment format ensures test takers can use language skills in almost all areas of life, including travel and cultural exchange.

Types of IELTS test format

IELTS scores are used by a humongous number of universities and institutions to test the language proficiency of a student and their ability to communicate in English. They generally measure your skills in two formats: IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training. 

  1. Academic Test- This exam is for students who wish to study at a university or college as undergraduate or postgraduate students. This is conducted to examine whether you are eligible to get into a professional institution or not.  
  2. General Ability- This exam is for students who are migrating to English-speaking countries to undertake non-academic training, gain work experience, or for immigration purposes. This usually examines the basic survival skills of people in English-speaking countries.

IELTS Exam 2024 Syllabus

IELTS 2024 Exam - Dates, Registration, Test Format, Eligibility & Fees


Comment - If you're unsure about the IELTS exam syllabus, feel free to drop a comment below expressing your queries. 

IELTS Exam 2024 Dates in India

The IELTS test can be computer-based as well as paper-based. It depends on the choice of the candidate. 

Computer-based tests are conducted throughout the year. Students can book the slot at their convenience. 

Paper-based tests are offered up to 3–4 times a month. This makes it over 40 fixed test dates in one calendar year. So the availability of the IELTS exam dates may differ according to the academic and general training modules. The academic module is available on all 40+ dates, whereas the general training module is only available on around 20 dates. So, students are advised to book slots as per their flexibility and convenience. 

Note: As per the official website, listening, reading, and writing shall take place on the same. The speaking test will take place 7 days prior to or after the test date. Students are advised to book slots at their convenience. The exam fee for IELTS is 17,000 rupees. 

IELTS Exam Date Booking for Ahmedabad 2024

  • Computer-based - 
Month Dates available 
November 23, 24, 26, 28, 29, 30, 31
December 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30
January  2,3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 30, 31
  • Pen and paper-based -
Month Dates available 
November 23
December 6, 13, 18, 27
January 4, 9, 18, 25
February 1, 8, 13, 22

 

IELTS Exam Date Booking for Amritsar 2024

  • Computer based -
Month Dates available
November 23, 24, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
December 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30
January 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
  • Pen and paper based - 
Month Dates available 
November 23, 30
December 6, 13, 18, 27
January 4, 9, 18, 25
February 1, 8, 13, 22

 

IELTS Test Dates Bathinda 2024

  • Computer based - 
Month Dates available
November 23, 24, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
December 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30
January 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
  • Pen and paper based - 
Month Dates available 
November 23, 30
December 6, 13, 18, 27
January 4, 9, 18, 25
February 1, 8, 13, 22

 

IDP IELTS Test Dates Bengaluru 2024 

  • Computer based - 
Month Dates available
November 23, 24, 26, 28, 30, 31
December 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30
January 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 30, 31
  • Pen and paper based - 
Month  Dates available 
November 23, 30
December 6, 13, 18, 27
January 4, 9, 18, 25
February 1, 8, 13, 22

 

IDP IELTS Test Dates Chandigarh 2024 

  • Computer based - 
Month Dates available
November 23, 24, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
December 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30
January 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
  • Pen and paper based - 
Month  Dates available 
November 23, 30
December 6, 13, 18, 27
January 4, 9, 18, 25
February 1, 8, 13, 22

 

IDP IELTS Test Dates Chennai 2024 

  • Computer based - 
Month Dates available
November 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
December 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30
January 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
  • Pen and paper based - 
Month  Dates available 
November 23, 30
December 6, 13, 18, 27
January 4, 9, 18, 25
February 1, 8, 13, 22

 

IDP Test Dates Goa 2024

  • Computer based - 
Month Dates available
November 23, 24, 26, 28, 30, 31
December 1, 2, 4, 6, 7, 8, 11, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18, 20, 21, 22, 23, 25, 27, 28, 29, 30
January 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 18, 19, 20, 21, 23, 25, 26, 27, 28, 30
  • Pen and paper based - 
Month  Dates available 
November 23, 30
December 6, 13, 18, 27
January 4, 9, 18, 25
February 1, 8, 13, 22

 

IDP Test Dates Gurugram 2024

  • Computer based - 
Month Dates available
November 23, 24, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
December 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30
January 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
  • Pen and paper based - 
Month Dates available
November 23, 30
December 6, 13, 18, 27
January 4, 9, 18, 25
February 1, 8, 13, 22

 

IDP Test Dates Hyderabad 2024 

  • Computer based - 
Month Dates available
November 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 30, 31
December 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30
January 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
  • Pen and paper based - 
Month Dates available
November 23, 30
December 6, 13, 18, 27
January 4, 9, 18, 25
February 1, 8, 13, 22

 

IELTS 2024 Exam Dates Jaipur

  • Computer based - 
Month Dates available
November 23, 24, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
December 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30
January 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
  • Pen and paper based - 
Month Dates available
November 23, 30
December 6, 13, 18, 27
January 4, 9, 18, 25
February 1, 8, 13, 22

 

IELTS Exam Dates 2024 Jalandhar

  • Computer based - 
Month Dates available
November 23, 24, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
December 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30
January 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
  • Pen and paper based - 
Month Dates available
November 23, 30
December 6, 13, 18, 27
January 4, 9, 18, 25
February 1, 8, 13, 22

 

IELTS 2024 Dates Kochi

  • Computer based - 
Month Dates available
November 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 30, 31
December 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 30
January 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 28, 29, 30, 31
  • Pen and paper based - 
Month Dates available
November 23, 30
December 6, 13, 18, 27
January 4, 9, 18, 25
February 1, 8, 13, 22

 

IELTS 2024 Dates Lucknow

  • Computer based - 
Month Dates available
November 23, 24, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
December 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30
January 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
  • Pen and paper based - 
Month Dates available
November 23, 30
December 6, 13, 18, 27
January 4, 9, 18, 25
February 1, 8, 13, 22

 

IELTS Exam Dates 2024 Ludhiana

  • Computer based - 
Month Dates available
November 23, 24, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
December 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30
January 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
  • Pen and paper based - 
Month Dates available
November 23, 30
December 6, 13, 18, 27
January 4, 9, 18, 25
February 1, 8, 13, 22

 

IELTS 2024 Exam Dates Mumbai 

  • Computer based -
Month Dates available
November 23, 24, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
December 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30
January 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
  • Pen and paper based - 
Month Dates available
November 23, 30
December 6, 13, 18, 27
January 4, 9, 18, 25
February 1, 8, 13, 22

 

IELTS Exam Dates New Delhi 2024 

  • Computer based - 
Month Dates available
November 23, 24, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
December 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30
January 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
  • Pen and paper based - 
Month Dates available
November 23, 30
December 6, 13, 18, 27
January 4, 9, 18, 25
February 1, 8, 13, 22

 

IELTS 2024 Dates Noida

  • Computer based - 
Month Dates available
November 23, 24, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
December 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30
January 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
  • Pen and paper based - 
Month Dates available
November 23, 30
December 6, 13, 18, 27
January 4, 9, 18, 25
February 1, 8, 13, 22

 

IELTS Dates 2024 Pune

  • Computer based - 
Month Dates available
November 23, 24, 26, 28, 29, 30, 31
December 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30
January 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 30, 31
  • Pen and paper based - 
Month Dates available
November 23, 30
December 6, 13, 18, 27
January 4, 9, 18, 25
February 1, 8, 13, 22

 

IELTS Dates 2024 Surat

  • Computer based - 
Month Dates available
November 23, 24, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
December  1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30
January 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
  • Pen and paper based - 
Month Dates available
November 23, 30
December 6, 13, 18, 2
January 4, 9, 18, 25
February 1, 8, 13, 22

 

IELTS Dates 2024 Thane

  • Computer based - 
Month Dates available
November 23, 24, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
December 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30
January 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
  • Pen and paper based - 
Month Dates available
November 23, 30
December 6, 13, 18, 27
January 4, 9, 18, 25
February 1, 8, 13, 22

 

IELTS Dates 2024 Vadodara

  • Computer based - 
Month Dates available
November 23, 24, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
December 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30
January 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
  • Pen and paper based - 
Month Dates available
November 23, 30
December 6, 13, 18, 27
January 4, 9, 18, 25
February 1, 8, 13, 22

 

IELTS Dates 2024 Vijayawada

  • Computer based - 
Month Dates available
November 23, 24,25, 26, 27, 28, 30, 31
December 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30
January 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
  • Pen and paper based - 
Month Dates available
November 23, 30
December 6, 13, 18, 27
January 4, 9, 18, 25
February 1, 8, 13, 22

source: IDP IELTS India

Important Note: As per the IDP IELTS website, the exam dates are mentioned only until the end of April. However, we have read various articles where they mention exam dates for all 12 months in 2024. We request you not to prepare for your exam based on those sources. Instead, please visit our blog regularly, as we consistently update it with the most recent changes in IELTS exams.

IELTS Exam 2024 Pattern

IELTS 2024 Exam - Dates, Registration, Test Format, Eligibility & Fees

Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking sections of the IELTS exam are checks on essential language skills in real-world situations. The format of IELTS 2024 is standardized in order to standardize the format and give people the facility to show their language proficiency in a structured and practical way. The IELTS Structure 2024 is the same as the IELTS Academic or IELTS General Training exam, but the content varies slightly between the two.

Listening

In the Listening section, which both Academic and General Training test candidates must do, they are tested on their ability to understand spoken English in different situations. Four audio recordings discuss a diverse range of social, and academic topics, conversations, and monologues. There are multiple-choice, matching, plan map labeling, sentence completion, and 40 questions. This should take about 30 minutes and 10 minutes to transfer answers onto the answer sheet.

Reading

The Reading section is the same for the IELTS Academic and General Training versions, but takes 1 hour, and has 40 questions; Academic Reading contains longer, more complex passages from academic books, journals, magazines, and newspapers, which reflect material in higher education. General Training Reading also includes a wider variety of texts from everyday sources (such as advertisements, booklets, notices, and social contexts) alongside more complex texts from newspapers or workplace documents. The questionnaire formats include multiple choice, true/false/not given, matching headings, sentence completion, and so on.

Writing

There are 2 tasks in the Writing section which is 60 minutes long and takes different formats (60 minutes and 2 tasks) for Academic and General Training.

  • Task 1 - test takers are required to describe visual data (charts, graphs, tables); for Task 2, they write a formal essay on a given topic.
  • Task 2 – a letter (formal, semi-formal, or informal) and Task 2 – an essay on a general topic are examples of everyday activities in General Training Writing.

Both are grammar, vocabulary, coherence, and overall writing ability tests.

Speaking

The listening and speaking sections take 11 to 14 minutes and include an interview between the test taker and an examiner, who is a face-to-face interview. The purpose of the test is to determine the candidate’s fluency, coherence, pronunciation, and language usage in an interactive setting.

  • Part 1: Questions about their work, studies, and interests are general.
  • Part 2: The candidate is given a cue card with a certain topic, in which he prepares himself for one minute and then has to speak for at least two minutes.
  • Part 3: Part 2 is an examiner and candidate discussion of the topic covered more abstractly.

At some test centers, the test for the Speaking can be on the same day as the other sections, or up to seven days before or after

IELTS Scoring System

There is a 9-band scale in the IELTS scoring system, the overall score considers the scores achieved in the sections of Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Each level of English competency is represented with band scores from 1 (non-user) to 9 (expert user), so candidates know where they are. While the scores vary from institution to institution and by nation, you will need to get 7 or above in the IELTS band in order to enter your destination university and work in your field.


Scoring Breakdown

The overall band score is the average of each section’s score rounded to the nearest half band. Here’s how each band level corresponds to proficiency:

Band Score Description Skill Level
9 Expert User Having a fully operational command of the language
8 Very Good User Fully Operational with occasional inaccuracies
7 Good User Occasional misunderstandings, and operational command
6 Competent User A couple of mistakes, but a generally effective command
5 Modest User Coping with overall meaning in familiar situations, including partial command
4 Limited User Limited to familiar situations, and basic competence
3 Extremely Limited Understands and conveys only general meaning
2 Intermittent User A great difficulty in understanding spoken and written English
1 Non-User Ability to use the language, except for a few isolated words

For a higher score like 8.5 in IELTS, our article "How to get an 8.5 on IELTS" will tell you about the tips and strategies you can use to prepare for that achievement.

IELTS Score Comparison Table

Almost all candidates are asking whether IELTS scores are better than other popular language tests such as TOEFL, PTE, and Duolingo. The following table offers an approximate comparison:

IELTS Band Score

 TOEFL iBT Score PTE Academic Score Duolingo Score

9

 118-120 89-90 145-160

8

 110-114 79-83 135-140

7

 94-101 65-72 115-120

6

 60-78 50-58 90-95

5

 35-45 34-41 75-80

4

 31

30

 55-60

For a deeper dive into these comparisons and to learn about other tests like PTE, Duolingo, and TOEFL, check out our comprehensive guides on each of these exams.

IELTS Test Formats: Computer-Based and Paper-Based

The IELTS exam is offered in two formats: IELTS paper-based and IELTS computer-based. Both formats aim to test the same language skills: The same scoring system, Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. This means there is no difference in the skills tested, IELTS Exam pattern, and IELTS scoring system for all formats, and candidates can choose the format that suits them and make the most of their time availability

1. Computer-Based IELTS
The Listening, Reading, and Writing components are taken by the candidates on the computer for the IELTS computer-based format. The Speaking test takes place in person with an IELTS examiner the same as for the paper-based test. 

  • Faster Results: Results are generally available in 3 – 5 days.
  • More Flexibility: This has lots of slots available and test dates as many so that candidates can choose the timings that suit their routine.
  • User Interface: The simple computer format will assist you in focusing on some things.

2. Paper-Based IELTS
The paper-based IELTS format is done on paper using a pencil, and the Listening, Reading, and Writing are done in this format. The format for the Speaking test remains the same face-to-face interaction with an examiner as it has always been.

  • Traditional Test Format: It’s a good option for those who like to use a pencil and paper.
  • Consistent Scoring and Test Structure: There is no variation in test difficulty and the IELTS Structure 2024 is maintained.
  • Results Timeline: Most results are published within 13 days of taking the test.

Both formats to test English proficiency are personal preference and both are rigorous. So, the IELTS Exam Fees 2024 and the IELTS Exam pattern remain the same no matter whether the IELTS Exam was conducted in Computer Based or Paper Based mode.

How Long is the IELTS Score Valid?

The validity of your IELTS score is for two years since your test date. The IELTS Academic test and the IELTS General Training test take two years and are accepted during this two-year period by universities, immigration agencies, and professional bodies around the world.

Why Only Two Years?

The two-year validity period was set, because language proficiency can change over time, especially if people aren’t using or living in an English environment. This policy gives organizations and institutions a chance to get the up-to-date, accurate representation of a candidate’s language abilities.

Expired IELTS Scores

Supposing an organization or institution asks for a recent IELTS score when your IELTS score expires two years from now, you will have to retake the test.
For more information on IELTS, what you need to prepare, and how to make the most of your score, take a look at our collection of related articles covering scoring strategies, study resources, and comparisons with other language tests such as PTE and TOEFL.
When you book an IELTS test, you are given official preparation materials from the IELTS team to start you on your study course. 

Official IELTS Preparation Books

  • The Official Cambridge Guide to IELTS: The test creators themselves have authored this book and many test takers are recommended to buy it. This includes IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training formats and deals with up-to-date practice tests, tips, and strategies in each section (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking).
  • IELTS Practice Test Booklets: They are a collection of booklet tests that are in the format that you will see in the real exam and are designed to get you used to the types of questions you will see. Computer-based and Paper-based practice test booklets are available to match your test choice.
  • Access to Online Practice Resources: In some cases, these test centers will also provide access to online preparation materials, such as questions and answers, a video to help you know what to expect on test day, and answer keys. This one can be useful for you to know about the IELTS Exam pattern and how you can use time well.
  • IELTS Progress Check: You may also get free access to IELTS Progress Check, an official online practice test with test day simulation. It provides you with a report of your feedback on strengths and areas to work on to get the maximum impact from your study plan.

IELTS Exam Fee

The cost of the IELTS test in India is INR 17,000.00. Candidates wanting to take the IELTS exam are required to pay an IELTS Registration Fee of INR 17,000 every time they book their IELTS exam. The new IELTS exam price for the computer-delivered version of the exam for UKVI is INR 17,250. The IELTS exam price for the IELTS Life Skills (A1 and B1) has been revised to  INR 16,050 and the exam fee for the IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration has been updated to INR 17,250.

IELTS Exam - Type Updated IELTS Exam Fee 2024

IELTS Exam Fee 2024

(Pen and paper-based & Computer-delivered IELTS exam)

 INR 17,000
IELTS for UKVI INR 17,250

IELTS Life Skills

(A1 and B1)

 INR 16,050
IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration INR 17,250

IELTS Exam Eligibility Criteria

Candidates who all meet the required IELTS eligibility criteria mentioned below can apply for the IELTS exam.

  1. The candidate must have a minimum age of 16 years or above
  2. The candidate must possess a valid passport 
  3. The candidate should have at least completed Class XIIth to apply for the IELTS exam
  4. Candidates who have completed their XIIth can apply for IELTS Academic Test
  5. Candidates who have completed undergraduate and are planning to pursue their higher education abroad must apply for the IELTS Academic Test. 
  6. Candidates who are planning to study in the UK/Australia/Canada/USA/New Zealand can apply for the IELTS exam.
  7. Candidates who are planning to work in the UK/USA/Australia can apply for the IELTS exam.
  8. Candidates who are emigrating to Canada/New Zealand/Australia can apply for IELTS exams. 

Note: The age of the candidates may differ from University to University. It is suggested that students must cross-check the eligibility criteria pre-set by the University. 

IELTS Registration 2024

You can register yourself in two methods:

  • Offline Mode: To register offline, you may register in person at the nearest IDP IELTS branch or through any other referral partner. Students are required to produce certain documents at the time of registration like a photocopy of their passport ID, declaration documents, and others. 
  • Online mode: You can visit the official website of IDP IELTS India and register yourself for the exam. Select your preferred mode of the test, desired location, date, and slot, and proceed towards the payment of the fees. You can pay the IELTS registration fees online through debit or credit card digitally. 

How to Register Online for IELTS 2024? 

 To register yourself:

  1. Visit the official website of IELTS India. 
  2. Click on, “Register for the test”
  3. Select the preferred test mode- Online on a Computer or Offline Paper Based
  4. Choose the test format you want to apply for i.e. General Training Test or Academic Test
  5. Look for the closest IELTS center available on the list.
  6. Select the dates and slots at your convenience.
  7. Fill in all the required details in the registration form. 
  8. Upload a recent passport-size photograph
  9. Click, submit. It will direct you to the payment portal. Pay the required amount digitally through a credit or debit card.
  10. Congratulations! You have registered yourself for the IELTS exam. 

For the speaking test, you can select the date and time slot at your convenience but if you fail to do so, automatically a date and time slot is allotted for the speaking test. 

IELTS Exam Admit Card 2024

The IELTS Admit Card is an essential document that candidates must carry to the examination center. It contains important information such as the candidate’s name, photograph, test date, test center, and test time.

  • To download the IELTS Admit Card, candidates must visit the official website of IELTS and click on the “IELTS Exam Admit Card Online” link. They will then be prompted to enter their registration number and date of birth. After submitting the details, the admit card will appear on the screen. Candidates can download and take a printout of the admit card.
  • It is important to note that candidates must carry a valid ID proof along with the IELTS Admit Card to the examination center. Acceptable ID proofs include a passport, national ID card, or a driving license. Candidates who fail to produce a valid ID proof will not be allowed to take the test.

IELTS Test Center in India

As mentioned on the IDP India website, there are 78 locations where you can take the IELTS test in India. These places are in 75 cities all over the country, so it's easy for people taking the test to pick when and where they want to do it. You have two options to sign up: you can do it online or go to the closest IDP office to register in person.

A-B B-F G-J J-K
Ahmedabad Bhubaneshwar Gandhinagar Jaipur
Ambala Calicut Goa Jalandhar
Amritsar Chandigarh Gurdaspur Jammu
Anand Chengannur Gurgaon Karnal
Angamaly Chennai Guwahati Kapurthala
Bangalore Coimbatore Hoshiarpur Kannur
Barnala Dehradun Hyderabad Khanna
Bathinda Faridkot Indore Kochi
Bhopal Firozpur Jagraon Kolkata
K-M M-N N-S S-T
Kollam Moga Noida Siliguri
Kothamangalam Mumbai Patiala Sri Ganganagar
Kottayam Nadiad Patna Sri Muktsar Sahib
Kurukshetra Nagpur Pune Surat
Lucknow Nasik Raipur Thane
Ludhiana Navi Mumbai Rajkot Tiruchirapalli
Madurai Navsari Ranchi Tirupati
Mangalore Nawanshahr Rudrapur Thrissur
Mehsana New Delhi Sangrur Trivandrum
V-Z
Vadodara
Vapi
Vijayawada
Visakhapatnam

Comment - Please provide the location of your closest IELTS exam center along with the date you're taking the exam in the comments below.

IELTS Exam 2024: Procedures for Transfer and Cancellation

If you're getting ready for the IELTS test, it's important to understand how you can change the date or cancel it. The official IELTS IDP India website mentions that you can easily switch or cancel your test date online. Still, there are specific rules you must follow while doing so.

Transfer/Rescheduling IELTS Test 2024

  • You can change the date of your IELTS test online if the new date is at least 15 days away from today, and you need to pay a fee of Rs 4,250.
  • If the new test date is 34 days or more from now, you can reschedule without giving any reason.

Cancellation of IELTS Test 2024

  • You can cancel your test online if the test date is at least 15 days from today. An administrative charge of 3,875 will be taken from the exam fee.
  • If the test date is between 15 and 34 days from now or if you paid offline, you need to submit supporting documents for cancellation. The cancellation will happen after your request gets approved.
  • Once the cancellation is approved, the refund will be processed within 8-10 business days after deducting administrative charges.

IELTS Exam 2024 Results

You do not have to wait for a long period for your test results. 

  1. If your exam is computer (online) based then log on to your profile after 3-5 days of your test exam. The results will be available on the official website.
  2. If your exam is paper (offline) based then you have to wait for a minimum of 13 days after your test exam. 
  3. If your exam is IELTS Life Skills-based then you can access your test results after 7 days of the exam. 

Note: Your results shown online are not official. They are your provisional marks. You will receive an official Test Report Form (TRF) at your postal address. The TRF form will include the score of each module and the overall band score. It is advised to keep the TRF safe as they might have to produce it during the time of admissions. 

IELTS Exam 2024 Scholarships

To study internationally, one of the major limitations is to fund a high amount of tuition fees clubbed with soaring living expenses. Instead of settling down for other alternatives, you can avail yourself of numerous IELTS Scholarships and education loans to fabricate your dreams of studying abroad.

As per the guidelines of the IDP or IELTS conducting institutions, you can avail of IELTS Test fee Scholarships which includes full fee repayment of an IELTS exam. Within 45 days of the final result declaration, eligible candidates will get the IELTS fee amount credited to their bank account. 

In case, if you are unable to avail of a scholarship to study abroad, you can take an education loan to finance your studies abroad. This is only possible if you connect with our financial officers for assistance regarding abroad education loans. They will guide you through the entire education loan process and will be their post-sanction too. 

IELTS Exam Preparation Tips 2024

  1. Self-study or opt for coaching classes- It totally depends on whether you want to self-study or acquire proper coaching to study as it depends on your language proficiency and comfort level. To enhance your English proficiency, invest some time in your studies as it will help develop your study skills as a result. 
  2. Work on your vocabulary- Learning is a continuous process of life. Develop a reading habit and try to learn new words every day. It will help you improve your knowledge as well as your speaking skills. Make proper use of the dictionary or thesaurus to discover new words on a daily basis. 
  3. Read newspapers, magazines, and handbooks- It will support your educational value and will help you boost your knowledge. By reading newspapers, magazines, etc you will gain a deep insight on the subject.
  4. Speak in English- Prefer talking to your family, relatives, and friends in English. It will help you ameliorate your speaking ability. Also, practice talking in front of a mirror to attain more confidence. Make use of the most conventional phrases, expressions, idioms, and sentence formations while speaking. 
  5. Accurate use of grammar- While practising talking or writing, phrase correct sentences. Work on the structure of the sentences to refine your sentence formation. 

And you are ready to go. All the best!

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