How to Register for IELTS: A Step-by-Step Guide

You can register for your IELTS in 4 simple steps:

1. Decide Which IELTS Test You Need

2. Choose Your Test Format (online or offline)

3. Prepare Your Documents (mostly it is your passport)

4. Book your test
   

Registering for the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is a straightforward process that can be completed in a few steps. Here’s an expanded guide to help you through the registration process:

1. Decide Which IELTS Test You Need

Before booking, it’s crucial to select the appropriate IELTS test based on your objectives:

• IELTS Academic: Intended for those applying for higher education or professional registration.

• IELTS General Training: Suitable for individuals seeking work experience or immigration to English-speaking countries.

• IELTS for UKVI: Required for visa applications to the UK.

• IELTS Life Skills: Designed for UK visa applicants needing to prove English speaking and listening skills at CEFR levels A1, A2, or B1.

2. Choose Your Test Format

You can take the IELTS test on paper or computer, depending on what’s available at your test center:

IELTS on Computer
The Reading, Listening, and Writing tests are done on a computer, while the Speaking test is face-to-face with an examiner.

IELTS on Paper
All sections are completed on paper, with the Speaking test held separately from the other sections.​

Check the availability of each format at your test center before booking, as some locations may offer only one option.

3. Prepare Your Documents

You’ll need the following documents for registration:

• Valid Identification: Typically, a passport is required. Ensure it’s valid and matches the name you use for registration.

• Photocopies: Clear copies of your passport’s first and last pages, including any observation pages.

• Consent Form: If you’re under 18, a signed consent form from a parent or guardian is necessary.

4. Book Your Test

Once you know which test to take and have your documents ready, visit the official IELTS booking website. From there, you can choose a test center and date that suits you.

There are three ways you can register for the IELTS test: online, in person, or by courier. Here's how each works:

Option 1: Register Online

1. Go to the official IELTS website.

2. Click on "Register for IELTS."

3. Choose your test date and city where you’ll take the test (check seat availability).

4. Fill out the online application form.

5. Pay the test fee using a valid credit card (Visa or MasterCard).

6. After registering, you’ll see a confirmation on your screen. Print it or save it for future reference.

7. Send a xerox copy of your passport (first and last pages, plus observation pages if any) to the IELTS office by courier.

Important: Carry your original passport on the test day.

Option 2: Register in Person

• You can register for IELTS online by:

1. Walking into the nearest IDP branch & register online using a computer at their office (similar to Option 1), OR

2. Filling out a paper application form available at the office.

• Submit:

1. A xerox of your passport (first and last pages, and observation pages if any).

2. The signed Terms & Conditions document (will be provided at the office).

• Pay the test fee using:

1. A credit/debit card.

2. A demand draft (made payable to "IDP Education India Private Limited").

3. Cash deposited in an ICICI bank using a special deposit slip (ask the office for one or download it online).

Once you’ve completed these steps, you’ll get an acknowledgment confirming your registration.

Option 3: Register by Courier

• Documents required:

1. Download the application form from the official IELTS website or collect it from an IDP office.

2. Fill out the form and sign the Terms & Conditions document.

3. A xerox copy of your passport.
   

• The test fee:

1. Demand draft (made payable to "IDP Education India Private Limited") OR

2. ICICI deposit slip (proof of cash payment at the bank).

• Mail everything to the IELTS office:

IDP Education India Pvt. Ltd.

Global Gateway Towers, Tower-B, 5th Floor, Sikanderpur Ghosi, Sector-26, M.G. Road, Gurugram -122002, Haryana, India.

Important Points to Notes

• Your seat is only confirmed after they process your payment and documents.

• If you’re registering by courier or paying by demand draft, it might take extra time to confirm your seat.

• Always double-check the details on your confirmation receipt.

After completing the registration and payment process, you’ll receive a confirmation email with your test details​.

5. Postpone or Cancel (If Necessary)

If you need to cancel or reschedule your test:

• Cancellation: If done more than five weeks before the test date, you may receive a refund minus an administration fee. Cancellations within five weeks may forfeit the fee unless a valid medical reason is provided.

• Rescheduling: You can change your test date if your test is more than 15 days away. For tests 15 to 34 days away, rescheduling may require a valid reason.

Important Points to Remember

• Register Early: Test slots fill up quickly and are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

• Check Your ID: Ensure your identification document is valid and matches the name used during registration.

• Review Requirements: Confirm the test type and format required by the institution or immigration authority you’re applying to.