The IELTS exam is one of the most globally accepted tests for English language skills. Tailored for individuals whose first language is not English, it represents an essential gateway for anyone wishing to study, work or migrate to countries where English is the main language. The IELTS Exam tests the candidates on the four key language abilities namely, Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. It is an internationally recognized measure of English proficiency accepted by more than 11,000 organizations such as universities and colleges, employers, and governments around the world.
| Exam Name | IELTS or International English Language Testing System |
| Mode of Exam | Computer-Based and Paper-Based |
| Fee | INR 18,000 |
| Exam Pattern | Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking |
| Exam Duration | 2 hours 44 minutes ( extra 10 minutes to mark answers in Paper-Based Test) |
| Scoring Range | 0-9 Bands |
| Date of Exam | 4 exams each month (48 exam annually) |
| Result Publication | 3-5 days (Computer-Based Test) 13 days (Paper-Based Test) |
| Accepted by | 11,500+ Organizations |
The IELTS exam assesses the English proficiency of non-native speakers to ensure they can communicate effectively in academic, professional, or immigration settings. It supports individuals in achieving their goals, such as studying at international universities, migrating to English-speaking countries, or securing employment in global markets.
Here is a breakdown of the IELTS exam fees for 2025.
| Exam | Fee |
| Computer-based IELTS for UKVI | INR 18,250 |
| Computer-based IELTS | INR 18,000 |
| IELTS Life Skills (A1 and B1) | INR 17,000 |
| IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration | INR 18,250 |
| Paper-based IELTS | INR 18,000 |
There are multiple IELTS exam dates throughout the year. Here are some of the exam dates for major cities.
Cities | Month | Dates |
Ahmedabad-East, Ahmedabad-West, Bengaluru, Chennai, Gurugram, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Kolkata, Lucknow, Mumbai-West, Pune, Visakhapatnam | November 2025 | 30th |
December 2025 | 7th, 14th, 28th | |
January 2025 | 4th, 16th |
| City | Test Centers |
| Delhi | British Council, IDP India |
| Mumbai | IDP India, British Council |
| Bangalore | IDP India, British Council |
| Chennai | British Council, IDP India |
| Test component | IELTS Academic | IELTS General Training | Time Allotted |
| IELTS Listening | 4 parts, 40 questions | 4 parts, 40 questions | 30 minutes |
| IELTS Reading | 3 passages, 40 questions | 3 sections, 40 questions | 60 minutes |
| IELTS Writing | Task 1: Describe information; Task 2: Essay | Task 1: Write a letter; Task 2: Essay | 60 minutes |
| IELTS Speaking | Part 1: Introduction and interview; Part 2: Individual long turn; Part 3: Discussion | Part 1: Introduction and interview; Part 2: Individual long turn; Part 3: Discussion | 11-14 minutes |
IELTS results are available 3–5 days after a computer-based test or 13 days after a paper-based test. Results are accessible online or can be sent to institutions directly.
The IELTS cut-off varies by institution or visa requirement. A band score of 6.5–7.0 is commonly required for academic purposes, while 5.5–6.0 may suffice for other uses.
While the scoring system of the IELTS exam and CEFR may not be the same, it is still possible to broadly determine the CEFR equivalent for your IELTS score. Here is a general reference designed by IELTS.
CEFR Equivalent | IELTS Band | Skill Level |
C2 | 9 | Proficient User |
C1 | 7-8 | Proficient User |
B2 | 5.5-6.5 | Independent User |
B1 | 4-5 | Independent User |
A2 and A1 | Lower than 4 | Basic User |
Check out our Latest Post : https://nixstudyabroad.com/ebooks/ielts-preparation-guide/
Yes, a 7.5 is an excellent score, demonstrating strong English proficiency suitable for academic and professional purposes.
A score of 27 out of 40 in listening corresponds approximately to Band 6.5.
Countries like Canada and Australia may accept 5.5 bands for certain programs or institutions.
While possible, options are limited with 5 bands as higher scores are preferred for visa applications.
Both have unique formats; PTE is considered more automated, while IELTS emphasizes face-to-face speaking tests.
Yes, a good score enhances visa success for study or migration purposes.
Yes, IELTS scores are valid for two years from the test date.
Both the Computer-Based and Paper-Based IELTS Tests cost INR 18,000.
Universities in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand widely accept IELTS scores.
© 2025 Nix Study Abroad. All rights reserved
