The IELTS exam date for 2026 are available throughout the year, offering flexibility to candidates preparing for this essential English language proficiency test. With computer-delivered tests conducted seven days a week, up to three times a day, and paper-based tests scheduled up to four times a month, you can easily choose a date that fits your convenience.
The IELTS exam serves as a vital step for individuals aiming to study, work, or migrate abroad, ensuring accessibility with its frequent test schedules.
By the end of this blog, you will know
- The comprehensive schedule of IELTS exam dates for 2026, including both computer-delivered and paper-based tests.
- How to register for the IELTS exam seamlessly through the official IDP website.
- Key insights into re-evaluation, rescheduling policies, and test preparation strategies to maximise your IELTS performance.
Key Highlights of the IELTS Exam 2026
The IELTS exam is one of the most sought-after English language proficiency tests globally, conducted by IDP Education. Designed for academic, professional, and migration purposes, it assesses candidates on listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills. Here’s an updated overview of the key details for IELTS 2026:
|
Particulars |
Details |
|
Exam Name |
International English Language Testing System |
|
Commonly Known As |
IELTS |
|
Exam Level |
International Level |
|
Conducting Body |
IDP Education |
|
Available Test Modules |
IELTS Academic, IELTS General Training |
|
Registration Mode |
Online or Offline |
|
Exam Delivery Modes |
Computer-based, Paper-based |
|
Test Duration |
2 hours and 45 minutes |
|
Number of Attempts Allowed |
Unlimited |
|
Official Website |
IELTS Exam Date 2026: Computer-Based (Academic)
The computer-delivered IELTS test, designed specifically for Academic purposes, is available on most days throughout the year. To meet the demands of test-takers, these exams are conducted across multiple time slots daily, offering unparalleled flexibility. Candidates can select a time slot that aligns with their IELTS exam schedule for a seamless test-taking experience.
Available Test Slots:
Slot 1: 09:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Slot 2: 01:00 PM to 04:00 PM
Slot 3: 05:00 PM to 08:00 PM
It is important to note that test centres may remain closed during national or state holidays. Hence, applicants should book their IELTS Academic test dates well in advance. Below is a comprehensive month-wise schedule for the IELTS Academic (computer-delivered) test dates in 2026:
|
Month |
Available IELTS Test Dates (Academic) |
|
January 2026 |
All dates are open for the IELTS exam from the 1st to the 31st. |
|
February 2026 |
Open test dates: 1st to the 28th. |
|
March 2026 |
All dates are open for the IELTS exam from the 1st to the 31st. |
|
April 2026 |
All dates are open for the IELTS exam from the 1st to the 31st. |
|
May 2026 |
All dates are open for the IELTS exam from the 1st to the 31st. |
|
June 2026 |
All dates are open for the IELTS exam from the 1st to the 31st. |
|
July 2026 |
All dates are open for the IELTS exam from the 1st to the 31st. |
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IELTS Exam Date 2026: Paper-Based (Academic and General Training)
The IELTS paper-based test, conducted by IDP India, is available throughout the year for both Academic and General Training modules. Scheduled on Thursdays and Saturdays, the test dates are strategically planned to accommodate students and professionals pursuing their international goals. Below is the detailed month-wise breakdown of IELTS test dates for 2026.
January IELTS Exam Date 2026
January offers multiple IELTS paper-based test dates to cater to candidates preparing for Academic and General Training modules. Plan your application and study accordingly.
|
Test Date |
Test Module |
|
Saturday, 4th January 2026 |
Academic & General Training |
|
Thursday, 16th January 2026 |
Academic |
|
Saturday, 25th January 2026 |
Academic & General Training |
February IELTS Exam Date 2026
February has strategically placed test dates, allowing candidates to align their IELTS schedule with academic deadlines or migration requirements.
|
Test Date |
Test Module |
|
Saturday, 1st February 2026 |
Academic |
|
Saturday, 8th February 2026 |
Academic & General Training |
|
Saturday, 22nd February 2026 |
Academic & General Training |
March IELTS Exam Date 2026
With options for both Academic and General Training modules, March provides sufficient flexibility for test-takers aiming to meet their goals.
|
Test Date |
Test Module |
|
Saturday, 8th March 2026 |
Academic & General Training |
|
Saturday, 15th March 2026 |
Academic |
|
Saturday, 22nd March 2026 |
Academic & General Training |
April IELTS Exam Date 2026
April offers ample test dates to help candidates fit their IELTS exam into their academic or professional schedules with ease.
|
Test Date |
Test Module |
|
Saturday, 5th April 2026 |
Academic & General Training |
|
Saturday, 12th April 2026 |
Academic |
|
Thursday, 24th April 2026 |
Academic |
|
Saturday, 26th April 2026 |
Academic & General Training |
May IELTS Exam Date 2026
The IELTS test dates in May are well-distributed, ensuring convenience for both Academic and General Training test-takers.
|
Test Date |
Test Module |
|
Saturday, 3rd May 2026 |
Academic |
|
Thursday, 8th May 2026 |
Academic & General Training |
|
Saturday, 17th May 2026 |
Academic |
|
Saturday, 24th May 2026 |
Academic & General Training |
June IELTS Exam Date 2026
June offers a balanced schedule of test dates, helping candidates choose a slot that matches their preparation level.
|
Test Date |
Test Module |
|
Saturday, 7th June 2026 |
Academic & General Training |
|
Saturday, 14th June 2026 |
Academic |
|
Thursday, 19th June 2026 |
Academic |
|
Saturday, 21st June 2026 |
Academic & General Training |
|
Saturday, 28th June 2026 |
Academic |
July IELTS Exam Date 2026
July provides multiple test dates for candidates aiming to appear for Academic or General Training modules, ensuring they can meet their timelines effectively.
|
Test Date |
Test Module |
|
Saturday, 5th July 2026 |
Academic & General Training |
|
Thursday, 10th July 2026 |
Academic |
|
Saturday, 19th July 2026 |
Academic |
|
Saturday, 26th July 2026 |
Academic & General Training |
August IELTS Exam Date 2026
August includes various test dates, allowing candidates to conveniently schedule their IELTS exam alongside their other commitments.
|
Test Date |
Test Module |
|
Saturday, 2nd August 2026 |
Academic |
|
Thursday, 7th August 2026 |
Academic & General Training |
|
Saturday, 9th August 2026 |
Academic |
|
Saturday, 23rd August 2026 |
Academic |
|
Saturday, 30th August 2026 |
Academic & General Training |
September IELTS Exam Date 2026
With a range of test dates, September gives candidates the opportunity to choose the right date based on their readiness and deadlines.
|
Test Date |
Test Module |
|
Saturday, 6th September 2026 |
Academic |
|
Saturday, 13th September 2026 |
Academic & General Training |
|
Thursday, 18th September 2026 |
Academic |
|
Saturday, 27th September 2026 |
Academic & General Training |
October IELTS Exam Date 2026
October test dates are strategically distributed, giving candidates ample opportunities to register and sit for the exam.
|
Test Date |
Test Module |
|
Saturday, 4th October 2026 |
Academic & General Training |
|
Thursday, 9th October 2026 |
Academic |
|
Saturday, 18th October 2026 |
Academic & General Training |
|
Saturday, 25th October 2026 |
Academic |
November IELTS Exam Date 2026
November test dates cater to both Academic and General Training candidates, helping them meet year-end deadlines with ease.
|
Test Date |
Test Module |
|
Saturday, 1st November 2026 |
Academic |
|
Thursday, 6th November 2026 |
Academic & General Training |
|
Saturday, 15th November 2026 |
Academic |
|
Saturday, 22nd November 2026 |
Academic & General Training |
December IELTS Exam Date 2026
December provides the last set of IELTS test dates for the year, giving candidates one final opportunity to take the exam in 2026.
|
Test Date |
Test Module |
|
Thursday, 4th December 2026 |
Academic |
|
Saturday, 6th December 2026 |
Academic & General Training |
|
Thursday, 11th December 2026 |
Academic |
|
Saturday, 20th December 2026 |
Academic & General Training |
|
Saturday, 27th December 2026 |
Academic & General Training |
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IELTS Exam Date 2026: City-Wise Schedule
The IELTS test dates 2026 are available across various cities in India. Both computer-based and paper-based exams are offered, allowing candidates to select their preferred format. Below is the consolidated table of city-wise IELTS test dates for January, February, and March 2026.
|
City |
Month |
Computer-Based Test Dates |
Paper-Based Test Dates |
|
Hyderabad |
January 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 2nd Jan to the Jan 31st. |
4, 16 |
|
February 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 1st Feb to the 28th Feb. |
1, 8, 22 |
|
|
March 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 1st March to the 31st March. |
8, 15, 22 |
|
|
Chennai |
January 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 2nd Jan to the Jan 31st. |
4, 16 |
|
February 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 1st Feb to the 28th Feb. |
8, 22 |
|
|
March 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 1st March to the 31st March. |
8, 22 |
|
|
Delhi |
January 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 2nd Jan to the Jan 31st. |
4, 16 |
|
February 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 1st Feb to the 28th Feb. |
8, 22 |
|
|
March 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 1st March to the 31st March. |
8, 22 |
|
|
Gurgaon |
January 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 2nd Jan to the Jan 31st. |
4, 16, 25 |
|
February 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 1st Feb to the 28th Feb. |
8, 22 |
|
|
March 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 1st March to the 31st March. |
15, 22 |
|
|
Noida |
January 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 2nd Jan to the Jan 31st. |
4, 16 |
|
February 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 1st Feb to the 28th Feb. |
1, 8, 22 |
|
|
March 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 1st March to the 31st March. |
8, 15, 22 |
|
|
Mumbai |
January 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 2nd Jan to the Jan 31st. |
4, 16 |
|
February 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 1st Feb to the 28th Feb. |
1, 8, 22 |
|
|
March 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 1st March to the 31st March. |
8, 15, 22 |
|
|
Kolkata |
January 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 2nd Jan to the Jan 31st. |
4, 16 |
|
February 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 1st Feb to the 28th Feb. |
1, 8, 22 |
|
|
March 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 1st March to the 31st March. |
8, 15, 22 |
|
|
Bengaluru |
January 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 2nd Jan to the Jan 31st. |
4, 16 |
|
February 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 1st Feb to the 28th Feb. |
1, 8, 22 |
|
|
March 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 1st March to the 31st March. |
8, 15, 22 |
|
|
Pune |
January 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 2nd Jan to the Jan 31st. |
4, 16 |
|
February 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 1st Feb to the 28th Feb. |
1, 8, 22 |
|
|
March 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 1st March to the 31st March. |
8, 15, 22 |
|
|
Lucknow |
January 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 2nd Jan to the Jan 31st. |
4, 16 |
|
February 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 1st Feb to the 28th Feb. |
1, 8, 22 |
|
|
March 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 1st March to the 31st March. |
8, 15, 22 |
|
|
Ahmedabad |
January 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 2nd Jan to the Jan 31st. |
4, 16 |
|
February 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 1st Feb to the 28th Feb. |
1, 8, 22 |
|
|
March 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 1st March to the 31st March. |
8, 15, 22 |
|
|
Indore |
January 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 2nd Jan to the Jan 31st. |
4, 16 |
|
February 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 1st Feb to the 28th Feb. |
1, 8, 22 |
|
|
March 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 1st March to the 31st March. |
15, 22 |
|
|
Chandigarh |
January 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 2nd Jan to the Jan 31st. |
4, 16, 25 |
|
February 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 1st Feb to the 28th Feb. |
8, 22 |
|
|
March 2026 |
Available on all dates from the 1st March to the 31st March. |
8, 15, 22 |
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British Council and IDP Test Dates 2026
Previously, the British Council was a major organisation responsible for conducting IELTS exams in India. However, IDP IELTS India now exclusively administers all IELTS tests across the country after acquiring full ownership from the British Council.
Candidates looking to book their IELTS Academic or IELTS General Training test can now do so through IDP IELTS India. With test centres available in multiple cities, IDP ensures a smooth registration process and access to a wide range of test dates for 2026. For detailed information, candidates can refer to the list of test dates provided above or visit the official IDP website.
IELTS Exam 2026: Fees, Cancellations, and Rescheduling
Understanding the fees, cancellation policies, and rescheduling processes for the IELTS exam is crucial for candidates planning their test. IDP IELTS India provides specific guidelines to help candidates manage their test dates effectively in case of unforeseen circumstances. Below is a detailed overview of the exam fees, cancellation policies, and rescheduling options for 2026.
IELTS Exam Fees
The table below provides details about the exam fees for various types of IELTS tests conducted by IDP IELTS India.
|
IELTS Test Type |
Exam Fees (INR) |
|
Computer-Delivered IELTS |
19,000 |
|
Paper-Based IELTS |
19,000 |
|
IELTS for UKVI |
17,250 |
|
IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration |
17,250 |
|
IELTS Life Skills (A1 and B1) |
16,050 |
IELTS Cancellation Policy
Candidates unable to attend their scheduled IELTS test due to exceptional circumstances such as medical emergencies or other serious reasons may request a cancellation or refund. The table below outlines the key policies:
1. If cancellation is made more than five weeks before the test date
Refund: Candidates are eligible for a refund minus a 25% administrative fee.
2. If cancellation is made less than five weeks before the test date
No refund is provided.
3. Failure to attend the test without prior cancellation
No refund is provided unless exceptional circumstances can be proven.
Note: Exceptional circumstances may include medical emergencies or military service and are assessed on a case-by-case basis.
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IELTS Rescheduling Policy
Candidates may request a transfer of their test date to another available date by submitting a formal request at least five weeks prior to the originally scheduled test. The rescheduled date must fall within three months of the original test date. An administrative fee applies, as detailed below:
|
IELTS Test Type |
Transfer Fee (INR) |
|
IELTS on Computer for UKVI |
4,300 |
|
IELTS on Computer |
4,250 |
|
IELTS Life Skills (A1 and B1) |
4,250 |
|
IELTS on Paper for UKVI |
4,300 |
|
IELTS on Paper |
4,250 |
|
One Skill Retake (OSR) |
2,825 |
IELTS Exam Revaluation: Fees and Application Process
If you're not satisfied with your IELTS results, you can apply for a re-evaluation of your test, officially referred to as Enquiry on Results (EOR). This process allows candidates to have one or more sections of their IELTS test re-marked. The IELTS revaluation fee is INR 14,250 (inclusive of all taxes). If the re-evaluation results in a higher band score, candidates are eligible for a full refund of the revaluation fee.
Steps to Apply for IELTS Exam Revaluation

Follow the steps below to submit your request for an IELTS test re-evaluation:
1. Submit the EOR Application Online
Log in to your IELTS account and submit your revaluation request (EOR). Offline applications are not accepted.
2. File Within 6 Weeks
Ensure your request is made within six weeks of your test date.
3. Choose Sections
Opt to re-evaluate one or more test sections. The fee remains the same regardless of the sections selected.
4. Wait for Results
Receive the updated results within 21 days after submission of all required materials.
Revaluation Fee Overview
The table below provides a breakdown of the revaluation process fee:
|
Process Type |
Fee (INR) |
|
Enquiry on Results (EOR) |
14,250 |
|
Refund Eligibility |
Full refund if the score increases |
How to Register for the IELTS Exam?

Booking your IELTS test is easy and quick. Slots are assigned on a first-come-first-serve basis, so register early to secure your preferred date and test centre. The registration fee is INR 19,000.
|
Step |
What to Do |
|
1. Visit Website |
Go to the official IDP IELTS website. |
|
2. Select Format |
Choose Academic or General Training. |
|
3. Pick Test Centre |
Select your preferred test location. |
|
4. Choose Date |
Select an available test date. |
|
5. Add Details |
Enter personal and ID details. |
|
6. Pay Fee |
Complete payment of INR 19,000. |
The IELTS exam is an essential milestone for individuals planning to study, work, or migrate abroad, and gaining a clear understanding of its key elements—like test formats, registration, fees, test dates, and rescheduling options—helps ensure a seamless process. With IDP IELTS India offering flexible test options, multiple dates, and centers across the country, candidates have the convenience to align their schedules with their goals.
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