IELTS Exam Dates 2025–26: Plan, Prepare, and Secure Your Test Slot
Choose the Best Date for Your Success!
Each year, over 3 million people take the IELTS exam, with dates scheduled to accommodate candidates from more than 140 countries. With numerous test dates throughout the year, candidates like you can choose a time that best fits your preparation and application timelines.
Booking the right test slot is a pivotal step in your study abroad application. As the demand for English proficiency testing surges across India, staying updated on the official IELTS Exam Dates for late 2025 and 2026 is essential to avoid last-minute delays. The administrators of the IELTS Exam in both computer-delivered and paper-based formats across 75+ cities offer flexibility to match your preparation timeline. However, high-demand sessions, particularly weekend slots, frequently reach capacity weeks ahead of schedule.
This article details the latest calendar, updated fee structures, and essential booking information, empowering you to align your exam timing perfectly with your university intake deadlines and immigration goals.
Key IELTS Exam Dates 2025 Highlights
Understanding your IELTS exam dates for late 2025 and early 2026 allows you to plan your test-taking strategy effectively.
- Standard Fee: INR 18,000 (Academic & General).
- UKVI Fee: INR 18,250.
- One Skill Retake: INR 12,000.
IELTS Exam Dates 2025: Computer-Delivered Mode
The IELTS exam dates for the computer-delivered test are available on most days of the month. Test centres typically offer multiple IELTS exam time slots for candidates' convenience, which include:
- Slot 1: 09:00 am to 12:00 noon
- Slot 2: 01:00 pm to 04:00 pm
- Slot 3: 05:00 pm to 08:00 pm
Candidates planning to take the IELTS exam should book their preferred date well in advance, as spots fill up quickly. Keep in mind that test centres may be closed on national holidays or during state festivals, so it's important to plan accordingly.
Upcoming Computer-Delivered Dates (Indicative)
- December 2025: Available daily (e.g., 01–31 Dec) across major metros.
- January 2026: Available daily (e.g., 01–31 Jan).
- February 2026: Available daily.
IELTS Exam Dates 2025–26: Paper-Delivered Mode
The IELTS paper-based test, conducted by IDP India, is available up to 4 times a month, giving you 48 fixed test dates annually. Held on Thursdays and Saturdays, this format offers the flexibility to choose a date that fits your study and application schedule.
The paper-based test does not include the Speaking Test on the same day (it is scheduled separately), making it a structured option for both academic and immigration purposes.
IELTS Exam Dates for December 2025
For December, the IELTS exam date 2025 includes several test dates, giving candidates ample opportunities to complete their exams before the end of the year.
| IELTS Test Date | Test Type | IELTS Fees (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| 04 Dec 2025 (Thursday) | Academic Only | INR 18,000 |
| 06 Dec 2025 (Saturday) | Academic & General Training | INR 18,000 |
| 11 Dec 2025 (Thursday) | Academic Only | INR 18,000 |
| 20 Dec 2025 (Saturday) | Academic & General Training | INR 18,000 |
| 27 Dec 2025 (Saturday) | Academic & General Training | INR 18,000 |
IELTS Exam Dates for January 2026
Begin your new year's goals by securing a slot in January.
| IELTS Test Date | Test Type | IELTS Fees (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| 04 Jan 2026 (Saturday) | Academic & General Training | INR 18,000 |
| 10 Jan 2026 (Saturday) | Academic Only | INR 18,000 |
| 15 Jan 2026 (Thursday) | Academic & General Training | INR 18,000 |
| 24 Jan 2026 (Saturday) | Academic Only | INR 18,000 |
IELTS Exam Dates for February 2026
February offers consistent dates for those finalising applications for mid-year intakes.
| IELTS Test Date | Test Type | IELTS Fees (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| 01 Feb 2026 (Saturday) | Academic Only | INR 18,000 |
| 07 Feb 2026 (Saturday) | Academic & General Training | INR 18,000 |
| 12 Feb 2026 (Thursday) | Academic Only | INR 18,000 |
| 21 Feb 2026 (Saturday) | Academic & General Training | INR 18,000 |
IELTS Exam Dates for March 2026
March dates are crucial for students targeting the Fall intake.
| IELTS Test Date | Test Type | IELTS Fees (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| 07 Mar 2026 (Saturday) | Academic & General Training | INR 18,000 |
| 14 Mar 2026 (Saturday) | Academic Only | INR 18,000 |
| 21 Mar 2026 (Saturday) | Academic & General Training | INR 18,000 |
New Feature: IELTS One Skill Retake (OSR)
Crucial Update for 2025
If you didn't get the score you aimed for in one specific module (Listening, Reading, Writing, or Speaking), you no longer need to retake the full test!
- Eligibility: Available if you have taken the IELTS on Computer test at an eligible centre.
- Booking Window: You must book the retake within 60 days of your original test date.
- Fee: INR 12,000.
- Format: Computer-delivered only.
This flexibility is a game-changer for students who miss their target band by a small margin in just one section.
IELTS Cancellation & Rescheduling Policy (2025)
Planning can change, and it is vital to know the costs involved if you need to alter your booking.
- Rescheduling Fee: Approx. INR 4,500 (if requested more than 9 days before the test).
- Cancellation Fee:
- > 9 days before test: Partial refund (approx. INR 13,500 refunded).
- < 9 days before test: No refund (except for medical/exceptional circumstances).
The IELTS exam dates offer crucial opportunities for international students to meet their academic and immigration requirements. With multiple slots available each month, candidates can choose from 48 fixed paper-based test dates annually, providing flexibility and convenience.
Looking to ace your IELTS exam? Check the latest IELTS Exam Dates on the AECC website or connect with us to get all the details. Whether you're aiming for academic excellence or visa requirements, AECC is here to support your journey. Book your slot today and stride confidently towards your goals.