IELTS Slot Booking 2026, Fees, Type of IELTS Tests

IELTS Slot Booking 2026 involves selection of the preferred test date, location, and mode for the examination online on the official websites or offline by visiting the nearest test center. Given the popularity of the exam, early booking is advised to secure a convenient slot. Candidates need to register, upload necessary documents, and pay the exam fee during the booking process on the official IDP IELTS website. 

IELTS Tests include both paper-based and computer-delivered tests, with flexible test dates throughout the year. Additionally, provisions for rescheduling or canceling the test exist, subject to conditions and fees.

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What is IELTS Slot Booking 2026?

IELTS Slot Booking 2026 refers to the selection of your preferred date of the IELTS exam, selection of the test type, test centre, and time slot via the IDP IELTS test booking website. The paper-based IELTS exam is held four times a month, making a total of 48 sessions in a year, whereas the computer-delivered IELTS is offered multiple days a week. 

The following are some of the key highlights for the IELTS Slot Booking 2026:

• You can book a slot only through the IDP IELTS website.
• Both Computer-Based CBT and Paper-Based test options are available.
• You will need to use an IELTS login to book a slot.
• The IELTS test fee must be paid upon booking.
• Early booking is advisable as seats are limited in metro cities.

Types of IELTS Tests

IELTS provides several test formats that correspond to various needs for studying, working, and immigrating. Each test version assesses the English ability in a somewhat different context.

The different types of IELTS tests are given below:

1. Paper-Based IELTS:

• It is the traditional format where candidates write their answers on paper.
• It includes four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
• The speaking test is conducted face-to-face with an examiner.
• Results usually take approximately 13 days to be released.
• Conducted at specific test dates and centers, usually four times a month.

2. Computer-Delivered IELTS:

• Candidates type their answers for the Listening, Reading, and Writing sections on a computer.
• The Speaking test remains face-to-face with a certified examiner.
• Offers more test dates and flexible scheduling options.
• Results are faster, usually available within 3 to 5 days.
• Features include the ability to highlight text, make notes, and navigate easily between questions.
• Automated tools, like word count, help during the Writing test.

How to Book IELTS Exam Dates?

You can book IELTS exam dates via two methods, i.e., online via their official IDP website and offline via authorized test centers. Follow one of the steps below according to your preference.

1. Steps for IELTS Slot Booking Online 2026 (IDP Website)

The online booking method is the fastest and most preferred. Here are the detailed steps:

• Go to the IELTS registration page through IDP India.
• Register for an IELTS account or log in using it. Log in to the dashboard with your email and password.
• Select the IELTS test type between Academic and General Training, depending on your requirement.
• Select your city and test centre of choice. Enter the location to display test centres that are nearby.
• Select your desired IELTS exam date. Choose from the visible calendar displaying all the available slots.
• Upload the required documents.
• Review your application details carefully and then submit it. 
• Pay the test fee for IELTS online.
• Get your confirmation through email and the IELTS candidate login dashboard.

2. Offline IELTS Slot Booking 2026, Test Centre Booking

You can also book the exam offline at an authorized IDP test centre.

• Go to the nearest IDP-authorized IELTS test center. Bring your passport for verification purposes.
• Ask for the IELTS application form. Fill in the required details accurately.
• Choose your test type and test date preference.
• Submit passport photocopies with the required documents. Staff will check the information provided before processing.
• Pay for the IELTS exam fee at the centre using your card, cheque, or bank draft. 
• Collect your acknowledgement receipt. It carries your booking details and candidate number.
• Check your email for confirmation. Official confirmation will be sent by IDP to your registered e-mail.

3. Offline Method of IELTS Slot Booking via Courier

Offline IELTS slot booking through courier is an alternative for those who do not want to make a registration online or visit the test center in person.

• Download the IELTS Application Form from the official IDP or British Council website.
• Fill in all the details carefully: personal information, test type, and preferred location of the exam.
• Attach all the required documents, such as a valid passport copy and recent passport-size photographs.
• Prepare a demand draft for the IELTS exam fee in the name of the respective test authority, such as IDP or British Council.
• Double-check all entries carefully for errors that might delay the booking process.
• Put the form, documents, and DD in an envelope addressed to the nearest IELTS test centre.
• Send the package through a reputable courier service and keep the tracking number for your records.
• Wait for the confirmation, which will be sent to your registered email once your application has been processed and your slot is officially booked.

British Council IELTS Test Booking

Earlier, the student could book IELTS through the British Council IELTS test booking. But now, IELTS slot booking India is processed by the IELTS test booking IDP website. The British Council no longer handles IELTS tests in India after the transition in 2021. 

Documents Required for IELTS Slot Booking 2026

For IELTS slot booking in 2026, the candidates require some documents at the time of registration, whose details are as follows:

• Valid passport
• Passport-size photograph- depending on the centre's requirement
• Active email ID & phone number
• Payment mode (UPI, Net banking, Debit/Credit card)
• Candidates have to possess a valid passport.

How to Reschedule or Cancel IELTS Slot Booking 2026?

IELTS rescheduling allows candidates to change the test date if needed, usually with a request at least 15 days in advance of the original exam date. The process involves submitting a formal application, sometimes with supporting documents for exceptional circumstances, and may include a rescheduling fee. Approval will depend on availability and rules set at the test center, ensuring flexibility while effectively managing logistics. 

IELTS Cancellation Rules

• Refund available if applied more than 15 days before the test.
• Partial refund or no refund within 14 days.

How to Cancel IELTS Slot Booking?

Here are the steps to cancel IELTS Slot Booking:

• Go to the IELTS login profile on the official IELTS website.
• Submit your request online to cancel if the test date is 15 days or more away.
• Alternatively, you can submit the "Test Date Transfer & Cancellation/Refund Application Form" offline at your test center.
• Pay any applicable administrative cancellation fees.
• Partial refund of the remaining fee is processed within 10-12 working days if cancellation is done 9 days or more before the test.

Normally, cancellation requests less than 9 days before the test date will not be accepted, and no refund will be provided. Wait for the test center's confirmation of cancellation and processing of your refund.

IELTS Exam Fee for 2026

IELTS examination fee differs and is based on the test type and mode of testing the candidate prefers. It covers the charges of test administration, evaluation, and score reporting. The details of the IELTS exam fee are as follows:

Physics Wallah offers multiple online IELTS courses for all students. Follow the IELTS pages to better prepare for the exam.