IELTS Exam Fee in India: City-Wise Fee [2025]
Preparing for the IELTS exam is a significant step for students and professionals looking to study, work, or settle abroad. One of the first questions that comes to mind is, “How much is the IELTS exam fee?” In India, the IELTS exam fee has been standardized at ₹17,000, regardless of the test type—be it Academic, General Training, or UKVI IELTS. This blog will guide you through ways to manage your expenses, find nearby test centers, and complete your payment process, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free IELTS journey.
Overview of IELTS Exam Fee in India
If you’re planning to take the IELTS exam for Academic, General Training, or UKVI purposes, one key factor to keep in mind is the exam fee. The IELTS exam fee in India typically ranges between ₹15,500 and ₹16,500. However, this amount may vary based on the type of test you choose and the location of your test center. For instance, fees might differ slightly for cities like Delhi, Bangalore, and Mumbai.
Additionally, there are extra costs to consider, such as fees for rescheduling or retaking a section of the test. Being aware of these expenses and the payment process can help you better plan for a hassle-free experience.
IELTS Exam Fee by City
The IELTS exam fee in India is standardized across various cities for candidates looking to take the test. As of 2024, the fee for both the Academic and General Training tests is ₹17,000. This standardized pricing applies to major metropolitan cities in India, including:
- Mumbai
- Delhi
- Banglore
- Chennai
- Pune
- Hyderabad
- Kolkata
- Chandigarh
- Ahmedabad
- Jaipur
How to Pay IELTS Fee Online after Registration?
Once you have completed the IELTS registration process, you will be able to pay the applicable fees online through the following ways:
- Credit/Debit Cards: During the process of online registration, you can use any of the accepted credit cards, either Visa or Master card to finalize and make the payment.
- Net Banking: Click on the provided option for banks, choose your bank, and carry out the payment by providing net banking details.
- Paytm Wallet: In case it is enabled, you can also choose to make the payment through your Paytm wallet for ease and convenience.
Important Tips:
- Ensure a stable internet connection to avoid disruptions during the transaction.
- Check that you have sufficient balance in your selected payment method.
Cost of IELTS Exam: Paper-Based vs Computer-Based
When choosing between paper-based and computer-based IELTS tests, it’s essential to understand the differences in format and suitability for your preferences. Here is the difference between the paper-based and computer-based test:
1. Paper-Based IELTS
In the paper-based test, candidates complete the listening, reading, and writing sections using printed test booklets and answer sheets. The speaking section is conducted face-to-face with an examiner. This format is ideal for individuals comfortable with the traditional method of writing responses on paper.
2. Computer-Based IELTS
The computer-based test allows candidates to input their responses directly on a computer. The listening, reading, and writing sections are completed online, while the speaking section remains in person with an examiner. This format is efficient, with results typically available within 3 to 5 days. It’s a great option for candidates who are comfortable typing and prefer a faster turnaround time for results.
The IELTS exam fee in India is standardized at ₹17,000 for both formats, regardless of whether you choose the Academic or General Training module. This ensures candidates can select their preferred mode of examination without any additional cost.
Note: You can enroll in Internshala’s study abroad program to receive expert guidance and personalized counseling for every step of the journey.
IELTS Retake Fees and Additional Costs
Retaking any exam usually has some costs and other services that you might require in addition to retaking the IELTS examination:
Costs of Retaking:
Retaking the IELTS exam can be necessary if you aim to improve your overall band score or strengthen your performance in a specific section. Whether you need to retake the entire test or focus on a single skill, it’s important to be aware of the costs involved. In India, the IELTS retake fees are designed to give candidates flexibility in improving their results:
- Full Test Retake: If you decide to sit for the whole IELTS examination again, the charged fee is going to be ₹17,000 for both the Academic and General Training tests.
- One Skill Retake: Candidates who wish to enhance their scores in a certain area (listening, reading, writing, or speaking) may take advantage of the IELTS one-skill retake fee of ₹11,300.
Other expenses:
Apart from the test fees and retake costs, there are a few additional expenses you might encounter during your IELTS journey. These charges cover optional services, such as requesting a score re-evaluation, rescheduling your test date, or sending your results to more institutions than the free limit. Understanding these expenses can help you plan better and avoid unexpected costs. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Inquiry on Results (EOR)
If you believe your test was not marked accurately and request a re-evaluation, the cost for an Inquiry on Results is ₹11,625. This fee is refunded if your score is changed following the review.
Test Rescheduling
If you need to change your test date, a rescheduling fee of ₹2,300 applies. However, this option is available only if the request is made more than two weeks before the scheduled test date.
Additional Test Report Form (TRF)
You can send your IELTS scores to up to five institutions for free. Beyond this limit, there is a fee of ₹250 per additional institution.
Conclusion
Understanding the IELTS exam fee structure, including retake and additional costs, is crucial for effective financial planning. Whether you’re retaking the entire test or focusing on improving a specific section, knowing these expenses helps you avoid surprises and plan ahead. With the standardized fee of ₹17,000 for both paper-based and computer-based tests across India, the process is straightforward for all candidates. By accounting for extra costs in advance, you can focus fully on your preparation, free from financial stress, ensuring a smoother and more confident IELTS journey.
If you want to know more about IELTS and what you should prepare for, check out our blog on the IELTS exam syllabus to learn more.
FAQs
Answer: The cost of the IELTS exam in India is ₹17,000 for both the Academic and General Training tests, whether taken in a paper-based or computer-based format.
Answer: Yes, there are additional fees that may apply, including:
– Rescheduling Fee: ₹3,300
– Results Inquiry Fee: ₹11,625
– Additional Test Report Forms: ₹250 per report for sending
Answer: You can pay the IELTS exam fee online using a variety of payment methods, including credit/debit cards, net banking, or digital wallets like Paytm, depending on the available options during registration.
Answer: Answer: IELTS generally does not offer discounts or scholarships. However, some institutions or organizations may reimburse the exam fee for eligible candidates who meet specific criteria. It’s recommended to check with national education or migration organizations for such opportunities.
Answer: You may be eligible for a refund if you cancel your IELTS exam at least five weeks before the scheduled test date. However, cancellation fees may apply, and refund policies vary depending on the test center.
