Booking your IELTS test is one of the most important steps in your study abroad or migration journey. With thousands of Indian students appearing every year, securing your preferred slot early is crucial. This guide explains the step-by-step process to book IELTS Exam Dates in India 2026, along with fees, documents required, and expert tips to avoid last-minute hassles.

Overview of IELTS Exam 2026

The IELTS Exam 2026 will be conducted across multiple cities in India throughout the year. The test evaluates English language proficiency in four modules:

• Listening
• Reading
• Writing
• Speaking

You can choose between:

• IELTS Academic – For higher education
• IELTS General Training – For work or immigration

Both formats are available on multiple IELTS Exam Dates 2026, giving candidates flexibility in planning.

Step-by-Step Process to Book IELTS Exam Dates in India 2026

Follow this detailed process to secure your IELTS slot smoothly:

Step 1: Visit the Official IELTS Website

Go to the official IDP IELTS India booking portal. IDP is the authorized body conducting IELTS in India.

Create an account using:

• Full name (as per passport)
• Email ID
• Mobile number
• Password

Make sure all details match your passport to avoid issues later.

Step 2: Choose the Test Type

Select the appropriate exam module:

• IELTS Academic
• IELTS General Training

Your choice should align with your purpose—study, work, or migration.

Step 3: Select Test Format

While booking IELTS Exam Dates in India 2026, you’ll see two formats:

Paper-Based Test

• Fixed monthly dates
• Written answers on paper
• Results in 13 days

Computer-Based Test

• More frequent availability
• Faster results (3–5 days)
• Same difficulty level

Choose the format based on comfort and urgency.

Step 4: Select City & Test Center

India offers IELTS exams in 75+ cities. Popular locations include:

• Delhi
• Mumbai
• Bangalore
• Hyderabad
• Chennai
• Pune
• Chandigarh
• Ahmedabad

Pick the nearest and most convenient center when selecting IELTS Exam Dates 2026.

Step 5: Choose Your Exam Date & Time

Now comes the most crucial step—selecting from available IELTS Exam Dates in India 2026.

You’ll see a calendar with:

• Available slots
• Seat availability
• Test format
• Morning/afternoon batches

Tip: Book at least 6–8 weeks early, especially during peak admission seasons.

Step 6: Upload Required Documents

You must upload a clear scanned copy of:

• Valid passport (first & last page)

Important notes:

• Passport is mandatory
• No other ID proof is accepted
• Passport must be valid on test day

Ensure the scan is clear to avoid rejection.

Step 7: Pay IELTS Exam Fee

The expected fee for IELTS Exam 2026 in India is:

₹16,250 – ₹17,000 (approx.)

Payment methods include:

• Debit card
• Credit card
• Net banking
• UPI
• Wallet payments

Once payment is successful, you’ll receive a confirmation email.

Step 8: Receive Booking Confirmation

After successful registration, you’ll get:

• Confirmation email
• Test date & venue details
• Speaking test schedule
• Payment receipt

Download and save this confirmation for future reference.

When to Book IELTS Exam Dates 2026

Timing is crucial for success. Here’s an ideal booking timeline:

Booking early ensures:

• Preferred test date
• Desired city
• Enough prep time
• Retake opportunity if needed

Documents Required on Test Day

Carry the following on your IELTS Exam 2026 test day:

• Original passport
• Confirmation email printout
• Passport photograph (if required)

Without a passport, entry is not allowed.

IELTS Speaking Test Scheduling

The speaking test may be:

• Same day as LRW (Listening, Reading, Writing)
• Or within 7 days before/after

You can sometimes choose a preferred speaking slot during booking.

Rescheduling or Cancelling IELTS Exam Dates 2026

If plans change, you can modify your booking.

Rescheduling

• Allowed up to 5 weeks before test

• Administrative fee applicable

Cancellation

• Refund available if cancelled early

• Partial refund for late cancellation

Always read the refund policy before booking IELTS Exam Dates in India 2026.

Tips to Successfully Book IELTS Slot

• Book early during peak seasons
• Keep passport ready
• Use stable internet connection
• Double-check spelling details
• Choose computer test for faster results
• Avoid last-day booking

Proper planning ensures a stress-free experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many candidates face issues due to simple errors:

• Wrong passport number
• Misspelled name
• Booking wrong module
• Selecting distant test center
• Waiting too long to book

Avoid these to secure your preferred IELTS Exam Dates 2026 smoothly.

Final Thoughts

Booking your test correctly is the first milestone toward your global dreams. With multiple IELTS Exam Dates in India 2026 available across the year, candidates have the flexibility to plan according to admission deadlines and preparation levels.

Understanding the full booking process—from registration to payment—helps avoid errors and ensures you secure the best slot. Whether you choose paper-based or computer-delivered format, early planning for IELTS Exam 2026 can significantly impact your success.

Start tracking IELTS Exam Dates 2026, book your seat in advance, and begin preparation with confidence to achieve your target band score.