IELTS Exam Dates 2026
Planning your study abroad or migration journey starts with a single, crucial step: securing your test seat. For 2026, the IELTS exam dates are more flexible than ever, designed to fit around your busy schedule. Whether you are aiming for a student visa or permanent residency, booking your test at the right time can make a massive difference in meeting university and visa deadlines.
As the official and sole owner of IELTS in India, IDP offers a robust schedule of IDP exam dates across 75+ cities. You now have the power to choose between the traditional paper-based format or the high-frequency computer-delivered test. With IELTS date booking available 24/7 online, securing your preferred slot is just a few clicks away. However, with the rising number of applicants, slots in major cities fill up weeks in advance. This guide will walk you through the complete 2026 calendar, booking process, and essential tips to ensure you never miss a deadline.
Latest Updates on IELTS Exam Dates 2026
The testing landscape for 2026 brings exciting news for candidates who prioritize speed and convenience. IDP has ramped up its infrastructure to support the growing demand for English proficiency testing.
- Daily Availability: Computer-delivered IELTS dates are now available almost every day of the week in major metros, giving you unmatched flexibility.
- Faster Results: One of the biggest advantages of the 2026 schedule is the speed. Computer-based results are declared in just 3–5 days, making last-minute IELTS date booking a viable option for urgent deadlines.
- Year-Round Slots: IDP IELTS exam dates are evenly distributed throughout the year, ensuring there is no “off-season” for test-takers.
- Multiple Slots: Most centers now offer up to three time slots per day (Morning, Afternoon, Evening) for computer-based tests.
Simplified Booking: The online portal for IELTS date booking has been streamlined, allowing you to filter by “Paper” or “Computer” instantly.
Types of IELTS Exam Dates Available
When you look for IELTS exam dates, you will find two distinct categories based on the test format you choose.
Computer-Based IELTS Exam Dates
This format is the top choice for students in 2026. The exams are conducted multiple times a week—often daily—in well-equipped IDP labs.
- Frequency: Available up to 7 days a week, 3 times a day.
- Flexibility: You can often book a slot just 24–48 hours in advance (subject to availability).
- Results: Lightning-fast turnaround of 3 to 5 days.
Paper-Based IELTS Exam Dates
If you prefer writing with a pen and pencil, this traditional format is for you.
- Frequency: Fixed dates, limited to 48 specific days per year.
- Schedule: Tests are usually held on Thursdays and Saturdays.
- Results: Released exactly 13 days after the test date.
IDP IELTS Exam Dates – Monthly Availability Overview
To help you plan your preparation, here is a general overview of when IDP exam dates are typically available throughout the year.
Month | Computer-Based IELTS Dates | Paper-Based IELTS Dates |
January | Available Weekly (Daily slots) | 4 Fixed Dates (Thurs/Sat) |
February | Available Weekly (Daily slots) | 4 Fixed Dates (Thurs/Sat) |
March | Available Weekly (Daily slots) | 4 Fixed Dates (Thurs/Sat) |
April | Available Weekly (Daily slots) | 4-5 Fixed Dates (Thurs/Sat) |
May | Available Weekly (Daily slots) | 4 Fixed Dates (Thurs/Sat) |
June | Available Weekly (Daily slots) | 4 Fixed Dates (Thurs/Sat) |
July | Available Weekly (Daily slots) | 4-5 Fixed Dates (Thurs/Sat) |
August | Available Weekly (Daily slots) | 4 Fixed Dates (Thurs/Sat) |
September | Available Weekly (Daily slots) | 4 Fixed Dates (Thurs/Sat) |
October | Available Weekly (Daily slots) | 4-5 Fixed Dates (Thurs/Sat) |
November | Available Weekly (Daily slots) | 4 Fixed Dates (Thurs/Sat) |
December | Available Weekly (Daily slots) | 4 Fixed Dates (Thurs/Sat) |
Note: While computer-based tests are frequent, paper-based IDP IELTS exam dates are rigid. Always check the official IDP calendar for the exact dates.
IELTS Date Booking Process (Step-by-Step Guide)
Ready to lock in your target score? Follow these simple steps to complete your IELTS date booking without any hassles.
- Visit the IDP Website: Go to the official IDP India IELTS portal.
- Select Test Type: Choose “Register for IELTS” and select your module (Academic or General Training).
- Choose Test Format: Select either “Computer-delivered” or “Paper-based” to see relevant IELTS exam dates.
- Pick Location & Date: Select your city. You will see a calendar where available dates are highlighted in green.
- Create Profile: Fill in your personal details exactly as they appear on your passport.
- Upload Documents: Upload clear scans of your passport’s first and last pages.
- Pay the Fee: Complete the payment of ₹18,000 (standard fee for 2026) via Net Banking, Card, or UPI.
- Confirmation: You will receive an instant email and SMS confirming your seat.
How Early Should You Book Your IELTS Exam Date?
Procrastination is the enemy of a good band score. The ideal time for IELTS date booking is 2 to 3 months before your university application deadline.
Why book early?
- University Deadlines: Universities often close admissions months before the course starts. You need your score in hand before you apply.
- High Demand Periods: The months of August to December (for Fall intake) and April to June (for Spring intake) see a massive rush. Slots in metro cities like Delhi and Mumbai can vanish weeks in advance.
- Retake Buffer: Booking early gives you enough time to reattempt the test if you don’t achieve your desired score on the first try.
IELTS Exam Dates by Test Centre (India)
IDP has an extensive network, ensuring that IELTS exam dates are accessible no matter where you live. While metro cities have daily availability, smaller towns have specific schedules.
- Delhi & NCR: High availability for both formats; daily slots for computer-based tests.
- Mumbai: Multiple centers across Western and Central lines offering frequent dates.
- Bangalore: Very high demand; computer-based slots fill up fast on weekends.
- Chennai & Hyderabad: Consistent weekly availability for paper-based exams.
- Pune: Regular slots available, but weekend dates are highly competitive.
- Chandigarh: A major hub for IELTS; offers one of the highest frequencies of IDP exam dates in North India.
Important Things to Know Before Booking IELTS Exam Dates
Before you hit that “Pay” button, double-check these critical details to avoid losing your money or your seat.
- Valid Passport: You cannot book or take the test without a valid original passport. Aadhaar or Pan Card is not accepted.
- Name Match: Your name on the booking form must match your passport letter-for-letter.
- Module Selection: Ensure you choose the correct module (Academic for studies, General Training for PR). You cannot switch this on test day.
- Rescheduling: If you need to change your IELTS exam dates, you must request it at least 5 weeks in advance to avoid heavy cancellation fees.
Slot Timing: For computer tests, pay attention to the time (Morning/Afternoon). Once booked, it’s hard to change.
IELTS Exam Dates vs Result Timeline
Your planning shouldn’t stop at the test date; you must consider when the results arrive.
IELTS Test Type | Result Timeline |
Computer-Delivered IELTS | 3 to 5 Days after the test |
Paper-Based IELTS | 13 Days after the test |
IELTS for UKVI | 13 Days (Paper) / 3-5 Days (Computer) |
IELTS Life Skills | 7 Days after the test |
Why Choose IDP for IELTS Date Booking?
In India, IDP is the trusted name for IELTS. Here is why millions of students choose IDP IELTS exam dates:
- Official Partner: IDP is the sole owner and administrator of IELTS in India, guaranteeing a standardized and secure testing environment.
- Wide Availability: With over 75 test centers, they offer the widest range of IELTS dates.
- Superior Experience: IDP centers are known for their use of high-quality headphones (for Listening) and modern computer labs.
- Easy Booking: Their online portal is user-friendly, making IELTS date booking seamless and quick.
Support: IDP offers excellent candidate support for rescheduling or query resolution.
Book Your IELTS Exam Date Today
Don’t let a missing test score be the reason you miss your university deadline. With high demand for IDP IELTS exam dates in 2026, the smartest move is to secure your seat now.
Check the calendar, choose a date that gives you enough prep time, and complete your IELTS date booking today. Your global future is waiting!
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Feel free to reach via contact us form.
Have a question?
Paper-based exams are available on 48 fixed dates a year (usually Thursdays and Saturdays). Computer-based exams are available almost daily, up to 7 days a week.
Yes, but you must request a transfer at least 5 weeks before your scheduled test date. An administrative fee (approx. 25% of the test fee) will apply.
In India, IDP is the sole administrator, so all available dates are IDP exam dates. Globally, dates are generally synchronized but availability depends on the local center.
It is recommended to book at least 2 months in advance, especially if you want a weekend slot or a paper-based test, as these fill up quickly.
Yes, the entire process—from selecting your date to payment—is done online via the official IDP website.
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