IELTS Exam Dates 2026: The IELTS exam in India is conducted throughout the year, giving candidates flexibility in choosing their test dates. Generally, IELTS test dates are available up to four times a month, adding up to nearly 48 fixed dates annually. However, the number of available dates may vary depending on the test type. The IELTS Academic test is offered on all 48 dates, while the IELTS General Training test is conducted only on 24 dates each year.
Candidates can book slots any day of the week, with up to three sessions available per day for the computer-delivered IELTS test. This helps accommodate more test-takers across India. On the other hand, the paper-based IELTS test, organized by IDP, is available up to four times a month. Candidates can select the most convenient IELTS exam date based on their preferences and preparation.
IELTS exam slots tend to fill up quickly, so it is recommended to register and book your test well in advance. Students can find more detailed information about IELTS exam dates 2026 in the sections below.
IELTS Exam Dates in India 2026
The IELTS paper-based test in India is organized by IDP several times each month, allowing candidates to select the date that best suits their preparation and convenience. Below is the month-wise IELTS exam dates 2026 calendar for both Academic and General Training tests.
The IELTS exam fee in India 2026 is ₹18,000 for both test types. Since slots fill up quickly, candidates should book their IELTS exam dates early to get their preferred test centre and time.
IELTS Exam Dates January 2026
| IELTS Test Date | Test Type | IELTS Fees (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday, 10th January 2026 | Academic and General Training | 18,000 |
| Saturday, 24th January 2026 | Academic | 18,000 |
| Saturday, 31st January 2026 | Academic | 18,000 |
IELTS Exam Dates February 2026
| IELTS Test Date | Test Type | IELTS Fees (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday, 7th February 2026 | Academic and General Training | 18,000 |
| Saturday, 14th February 2026 | Academic | 18,000 |
| Saturday, 21st February 2026 | Academic and General Training | 18,000 |
| Saturday, 28th February 2026 | Academic | 18,000 |
IELTS Exam Dates March 2026
| IELTS Test Date | Test Type | IELTS Fees (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday, 7th March 2026 | Academic and General Training | 18,000 |
| Saturday, 14th March 2026 | Academic | 18,000 |
| Saturday, 21st March 2026 | Academic and General Training | 18,000 |
IELTS Exam Dates April 2026
| IELTS Test Date | Test Type | IELTS Fees (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday, 4th April 2026 | Academic | 18,000 |
| Saturday, 11th April 2026 | Academic and General Training | 18,000 |
| Saturday, 25th April 2026 | Academic and General Training | 18,000 |
IELTS Exam Dates May 2026
| IELTS Test Date | Test Type | IELTS Fees (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday, 2nd May 2026 | Academic | 18,000 |
| Thursday, 7th May 2026 | Academic and General Training | 18,000 |
| Saturday, 16th May 2026 | Academic | 18,000 |
| Saturday, 23rd May 2026 | Academic and General Training | 18,000 |
IELTS Exam Dates June 2026
| IELTS Test Date | Test Type | IELTS Fees (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday, 6th June 2026 | Academic and General Training | 18,000 |
| Saturday, 13th June 2026 | Academic | 18,000 |
| Saturday, 20th June 2026 | Academic and General Training | 18,000 |
| Saturday, 27th June 2026 | Academic | 18,000 |
IELTS Exam Dates 2026: Computer-Delivered
The IELTS computer-delivered test in India is available almost every day. This gives students greater flexibility to plan their exams as per their convenience. Check a complete month-wise list of upcoming IELTS exam dates in India for 2026 to help prepare better.
Candidates can choose from multiple slots available throughout the week, with up to three sessions daily. Booking early is recommended, as test slots often fill quickly at popular test centres.
Candidates can check the Month-Wise IELTS Exam Dates (Computer-Delivered) 2026 in the table below:
| Month | IELTS Exam Dates 2026 |
|---|---|
| January 2026 | 01–31 |
| February 2026 | 01–28 |
| March 2026 | 01–31 |
| April 2026 | 01–30 |
| May 2026 | 01–31 |
| June 2026 | 01–30 |
| July 2026 | 01–31 |
| August 2026 | 01–31 |
| September 2026 | 01–30 |
| October 2026 | 01–31 |
| November 2026 | 01–30 |
| December 2026 | 01–31 |
All months offer daily computer-delivered IELTS test dates, ensuring candidates can select the most suitable day and time based on their preparation schedule.
Candidates who are planning to appear for the IELTS 2026 should keep checking the official IDP IELTS website for the latest updates and to confirm availability at their preferred test location. Booking in advance ensures candidates get their desired date and time without any last-minute rush.
British Council IELTS Test Dates
Candidates should note that IELTS tests in India, which were previously conducted by the British Council, are now fully administered by IDP IELTS India. IDP took over all IELTS operations from the British Council and continues to conduct both IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training exams across major cities in India.
Students can check the available IDP IELTS exam dates in the tables above or visit the official IDP IELTS website for the latest updates and test centre information.
If you are confused between IELTS and TOEFL, check out this article: IELTS Vs TOEFL
IDP IELTS Exam Dates 2026: Paper-Delivered
The IDP IELTS paper-delivered test in India is conducted up to four times a month, totaling 48 fixed test dates in a year. The paper-based test (excluding the Speaking Test) is generally scheduled on Thursdays and Saturdays, giving candidates the flexibility to choose a date that aligns with their preparation, university application deadlines, and visa requirements.
IELTS Exam Date Booking Tips
Candidates should consider the following when selecting IELTS exam date:
- Preparation time and readiness for the exam.
- University application deadlines and student visa submission dates.
- Test centre availability, as seats often fill quickly.
It is highly recommended to book IELTS exam date early to ensure sufficient time for preparation and avoid missing crucial deadlines.
IELTS Registration
Candidates must complete the IELTS registration process to secure their preferred test centre and exam date. Test centres operate on a first-come-first-serve basis, and during peak seasons, slots can fill up one month in advance.
Currently, IDP Education is the sole conducting body of the IELTS exam across India, with centres in all major cities. The predefined IELTS exam fee is INR 18,000. Candidates should select the test centre most convenient to their location and register promptly to ensure availability.
IELTS Exam Dates in India 2026 FAQs
Q.1. What is the IELTS exam fee in India 2026?
Ans. The IELTS exam fee in India for both Academic and General Training is ₹18,000.
Q.2. How often is the IELTS paper-based test conducted in India?
Ans. The paper-based IELTS test is conducted up to four times a month, typically on Thursdays and Saturdays.
Q.3. Can I take the computer-delivered IELTS test any day?
Ans. Yes, the computer-delivered IELTS test is available almost every day with up to three sessions per day.
Q.4. Who conducts the IELTS exam in India now?
Ans. IDP IELTS India is the sole body conducting IELTS exams across India after taking over operations from the British Council.
Q.5. How early should I book my IELTS exam date?
Ans. It is recommended to book test date early, especially during peak seasons, as slots fill quickly at popular test centres.
