The IELTS exam fee in India is ₹19,000 for both IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training, whether you take the test on computer or write the Writing paper on paper. IELTS for UKVI costs ₹19,250.
That is the number most people are looking for. But the exam fee is not the only money you will spend on IELTS, and IELTS fees change from time to time. This guide covers the fee for each test type, the extra charges that catch people out, how to pay, and how to avoid paying twice.
IELTS Exam Fees in India at a Glance
Test | Fee |
IELTS Academic (computer or paper) | ₹19,000 |
IELTS General Training (computer or paper) | ₹19,000 |
IELTS for UKVI (Academic or General Training) | ₹19,250 |
IELTS Life Skills (A1 and B1) | ₹18,000 |
One Skill Retake | ₹12,650 |
What Is the Fees of IELTS Exam for Academic and General Training?
Both cost the same: ₹19,000. So the fee should not decide which one you take. Your purpose should.
· IELTS Academic is usually needed for university admission and professional registration.
· IELTS General Training is usually needed for work and migration.
Check with your university or the immigration authority before you book, because booking the wrong test means paying the full fee again.
Computer-delivered and paper-based IELTS also cost the same, so choose the format you are more comfortable with.
How Much Extra Is IELTS for UKVI?
IELTS for UKVI costs ₹19,250, which is ₹250 more than the standard test. You only need it if the UK visa route or university you are applying to specifically asks for IELTS for UKVI. If they only ask for IELTS, the standard test is enough. Confirm this in writing with them first.
Other IELTS Charges You Should Know About
The exam fee is only the start. IDP India lists these other charges:
· Test date transfer: ₹4,750 (₹4,850 for UKVI)
· Enquiry on Results (re-check of your score): ₹14,250 (₹14,400 for UKVI)
· One Skill Retake: ₹12,650
· Extra Test Report Forms: your first five electronic reports are free, and after that it is ₹350 per university
Cancelling is a separate matter. How much you get back depends on the test type and how early you cancel, and part of the fee may be kept. Read the cancellation terms on the booking page before you pay.
How to Pay the IELTS Fee
IDP India lists these ways to pay:
1. Credit or debit card, or net banking
2. Demand draft payable to IDP Education India Private Limited
3. Bank deposit at ICICI or HDFC branches
Most people pay online. Pay only on the official booking website, and keep your payment receipt and booking confirmation.
Is the IELTS Price in India Different in Each City?
No. IDP India states that its center in cities such as Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Delhi and Mumbai charge the same fee. What does change from city to city is your travel cost, and your coaching fee if you take classes.
You can read more in our city-wise guide to the IELTS exam in fee Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Delhi and Kerala, or our guide to the IELTS exam in Chennai.
The Real IELTS Cost: What Else You Will Spend On
The ₹19,000 exam fee does not include:
· Coaching or classes
· Books and practice tests
· Travel to the test center , and a stay if it is in another city
· A valid ID if you don't already have one
· A second attempt, if you are not ready the first time
Coaching fees vary a lot from one center to another. Our guide to IELTS coaching fees explains what to compare so you know what you are paying for.
5 Ways to Avoid Paying the IELTS Fee Twice
1. Take a full mock test before you book. If you are far from your target band, prepare more first.
2. Book with a buffer. Leave time before your university or visa deadline for the result and for sending your reports.
3. Enter your name exactly as it appears on your ID. A mismatch can cause problems on test day.
4. Book on the official site. Some agents add a service charge on top of the exam fee.
5. Read the transfer and cancellation rules before you pay, not after.
Should You Take Coaching Before You Pay the Exam Fee?
A second attempt costs another ₹19,000. If your mock test scores are below your target, or if you keep getting stuck on Writing and Speaking, a few weeks of good coaching can cost less than a retake.
If you are in or near Chennai, see our IELTS coaching in Chennai , or book a free demo class and decide for yourself.
Conclusion
The IELTS exam fee in India is ₹19,000 for Academic and General Training, and ₹19,250 for UKVI. Budget for the extras too, and make sure you are ready before you book, so you pay only once.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the IELTS exam fee in India?
It is ₹19,000 for IELTS Academic and General Training, on computer or on paper, as listed by IDP India on 7 October 2026.
What is the IELTS price in India for UKVI?
₹19,250.
Is the IELTS cost in India the same for computer and paper tests?
Yes. Both are ₹19,000.
Does the IELTS fee change?
Yes. IELTS fees are revised from time to time, so always check the official fee page on the day you book.
Is the IELTS fee refundable?
Partly, depending on the test type and how early you cancel. Check the cancellation terms before you pay.
Is IELTS cheaper in some cities?
No. The exam fee is the same across IDP center in India. Only your travel and coaching costs differ.
