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IELTS Exam Dates 2025: Test Schedule and Registration Deadlines

By Anupriya Mukherjee

Updated on Sep 11, 2025 | 4.09K+ views

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Latest update: IELTS continues to offer 48 fixed paper-based test dates annually, while computer-based IELTS remains available daily, subject to centre availability. 

The IELTS exam is a globally recognized test for English proficiency, required for study, work, or migration. In 2025, candidates can choose between paper-based and computer-delivered IELTS. Paper-based tests follow 48 fixed dates annually, while computer-based tests run almost daily, offering flexibility for faster results.  

Computer-delivered results are available in 3–5 days, whereas paper-based results typically take 13 days. Understanding the IELTS exam dates, IELTS registration deadlines, and result timelines is essential for aligning test schedules with university applications, visa submissions, or work requirements.  

This guide provides a complete IELTS exam date calendar, including India, UK, USA, and Australia schedules, along with tips to choose the right exam date and access results efficiently. 

Get upGrad’s IELTS Guide 6 for free, expert strategies and tips to boost your score.   
Download now and start preparing effectively today! 

What Are the IELTS Exam Dates in 2025? 

The IELTS Exam Dates 2025 provide candidates worldwide with clear scheduling options for Academic and General Training modules. The test is offered in two formats: paper-based and computer-delivered. 

  • Paper-Based IELTS follows 48 fixed dates per year, mostly on Thursdays and Saturdays, depending on your location. 

  • Computer-Delivered IELTS is available almost daily, giving candidates more flexibility and faster result turnaround (3–5 days). 

  • Understanding the differences between upcoming IELTS exam dates and year-round computer-delivered slots is essential for aligning with university applications, immigration deadlines, or personal preparation schedules. 

Paper-Based IELTS Dates 2025 

  • Globally, paper-based IELTS is conducted on 48 fixed dates per year, typically on Thursdays and Saturdays. 

  • Academic IELTS is available on all dates, while General Training IELTS is offered on select dates. 

  • These fixed schedules allow candidates to plan well in advance and ensure alignment with university or visa deadlines.  

Computer-Delivered IELTS Dates 2025 

  • Computer-delivered IELTS tests are available almost daily, depending on the test center. 

  • This format offers faster results, typically within 3–5 days, compared to 13 days for paper-based tests. 

  • Ideal for candidates with urgent timelines or tight schedules.  

Also Read: IELTS Exam Fees in India 2025 

IELTS Exam Dates 2025: Computer-Delivered 

The Computer-Delivered IELTS exam in India is available on most days of each month, with multiple daily slots to accommodate candidates. Booking 1–2 months in advance is recommended to secure your preferred test centre and date.  

Daily Slots (Most Centres): 

  • Slot 1: 09:00 AM – 12:00 PM 

  • Slot 2: 01:00 PM – 04:00 PM 

  • Slot 3: 05:00 PM – 08:00 PM 

Note: Test centres may close on national holidays or state festivals, so always check availability before booking. 

Month-Wise Computer-Delivered IELTS Dates 2025: 

Month 

IELTS Exam Dates (Computer-Delivered) 

January 

01, 02, 03, 04, 05, 06, 07, 08, 09, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31 

February 

01, 02, 03, 04, 05, 06, 07, 08, 09, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28 

March 

01, 02, 03, 04, 05, 06, 07, 08, 09, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31 

April 

01, 02, 03, 04, 05, 06, 07, 08, 09, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30 

May 

01, 02, 03, 04, 05, 06, 07, 08, 09, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31 

June 

01, 02, 03, 04, 05, 06, 07, 08, 09, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30 

July 

01, 02, 03, 04, 05, 06, 07, 08, 09, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31 

August 

01, 02, 03, 04, 05, 06, 07, 08, 09, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31 

September 

01, 02, 03, 04, 05, 06, 07, 08, 09, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30 

October 

01, 02, 03, 04, 05, 06, 07, 08, 09, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31 

November 

01, 02, 03, 04, 05, 06, 07, 08, 09, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30 

December 

01, 02, 03, 04, 05, 06, 07, 08, 09, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31 

Also Check: How is the IELTS Exam Conducted? - Complete 2025 Format & Steps 

IELTS Exam Dates 2025: Paper-Delivered 

The Paper-Delivered IELTS exam in India is held on fixed dates throughout the year, typically on Thursdays and Saturdays. This format is available for both Academic and General Training modules, although General Training is offered only on select dates.  

Candidates are advised to book their slots 1–2 months in advance to secure the preferred test centre and ensure the timely receipt of their results for university or visa applications.  

Key Details of Paper-Delivered IELTS 2025 

  • Number of Dates: 48 fixed dates globally 

  • Slot Timing: 01:00 PM – 04:00 PM (most centres) 

  • Academic IELTS: Available on all 48 dates 

  • General Training IELTS: Available on select dates each month 

  • Booking Tip: Book early, especially in high-demand cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai. 

Month-Wise Paper-Delivered IELTS Dates 2025:  

Month 

Academic Dates 

Academic + GT Dates 

January 

9, 16, 23, 30 

16, 30 

February 

6, 13, 20, 27 

13, 27 

March 

6, 13, 20, 27 

13, 27 

April 

3, 10, 17, 24 

10, 24 

May 

1, 8, 15, 22, 29 

8, 22, 29 

June 

5, 12, 19, 26 

12, 26 

July 

3, 10, 17, 24, 31 

10, 24, 31 

August 

7, 14, 21, 28 

14, 28 

September 

6, 13, 18, 27 

13, 27 

October 

4, 9, 18, 25 

9, 25 

November 

1, 6, 15, 22 

6, 22 

December 

6, 13, 20, 27 

13, 27 

IELTS Test Dates India: Monthly Calendar 2025 

The IDP IELTS exam dates in India are available throughout the year. Paper-based IELTS is conducted on fixed dates, usually Thursdays and Saturdays.  

Candidates should book 1–2 months in advance to secure their preferred test centre and ensure the timely receipt of their IELTS results for university or visa applications.  

January 2025 IELTS Exam Dates 

Test Date  Test Type 
Saturday, 4 Jan  Academic & General Training 
Thursday, 16 Jan  Academic & General Training 
Saturday, 25 Jan  Academic 

February 2025 IELTS Exam Dates 

Test Date  Test Type 
Saturday, 1 Feb  Academic 
Saturday, 8 Feb  Academic & General Training 
Saturday, 22 Feb  Academic & General Training 

March 2025 IELTS Exam Dates 

Test Date  Test Type 
Saturday, 8 Mar  Academic & General Training 
Saturday, 15 Mar  Academic 
Saturday, 22 Mar  Academic & General Training 

April 2025 IELTS Exam Dates 

Test Date  Test Type 
Saturday, 5 Apr  Academic & General Training 
Saturday, 12 Apr  Academic 
Thursday, 24 Apr  Academic 
Saturday, 26 Apr  Academic & General Training 

May 2025 IELTS Exam Dates 

Test Date  Test Type 
Saturday, 3 May  Academic 
Thursday, 8 May  Academic & General Training 
Saturday, 17 May  Academic 
Saturday, 24 May  Academic & General Training 

June 2025 IELTS Exam Dates 

Test Date  Test Type 
Saturday, 7 Jun  Academic & General Training 
Saturday, 14 Jun  Academic 
Thursday, 19 Jun  Academic 
Saturday, 21 Jun  Academic & General Training 
Saturday, 28 Jun  Academic 

July 2025 IELTS Exam Dates 

Test Date  Test Type 
Saturday, 5 Jul  Academic & General Training 
Thursday, 10 Jul  Academic 
Saturday, 19 Jul  Academic 
Saturday, 26 Jul  Academic & General Training 

August 2025 IELTS Exam Dates 

Test Date  Test Type 
Saturday, 2 Aug  Academic 
Thursday, 7 Aug  Academic & General Training 
Saturday, 9 Aug  Academic 
Saturday, 23 Aug  Academic & General Training 

September 2025 IELTS Exam Dates 

Test Date  Test Type 
Saturday, 6 Sep  Academic 
Saturday, 13 Sep  Academic & General Training 
Thursday, 18 Sep  Academic 
Saturday, 27 Sep  Academic & General Training 

 October 2025 IELTS Exam Dates 

Test Date  Test Type 
Saturday, 4 Oct  Academic & General Training 
Thursday, 9 Oct  Academic 
Saturday, 18 Oct  Academic & General Training 
Saturday, 25 Oct  Academic 

November 2025 IELTS Exam Dates 

Test Date  Test Type 
Saturday, 1 Nov  Academic 
Thursday, 6 Nov  Academic & General Training 
Saturday, 15 Nov  Academic 
Saturday, 22 Nov  Academic & General Training 

December 2025 IELTS Exam Dates 

Test Date  Test Type 
Thursday, 4 Dec  Academic 
Saturday, 6 Dec  Academic & General Training 
Thursday, 11 Dec  Academic 
Saturday, 20 Dec  Academic & General Training 
Saturday, 27 Dec  Academic & General Training 

Also check: Complete State/City List of IELTS Test Centres in India 2025 

IELTS Exam Dates 2025 City-Wise 

IELTS test dates in 2025 are available across major Indian cities, both in computer-delivered and paper-based formats. While computer-based IELTS exams are conducted almost daily with multiple slots, paper-based exams follow fixed global schedules, usually on Thursdays and Saturdays.  

To help candidates plan better, here’s a city-wise breakdown of IELTS exam dates for September, October, and November 2025. 

City  Month  IELTS Test Dates 2025 
Hyderabad  September  1,4,5,6,7,8,11,12,13,14,15,18,19,20,21,22,25,26,27,28,29 (CB), 6,13,27 (PB) 
  October  3,4,5,6,9,10,11,12,13,16,17,18,19,20,23,24,25,26,27,30,31 (CB), 4,9,18,25 (PB) 
  November  1,2,3,6,7,8,9,10,13,14,15,16,17,20,21,22,23,24,27,28,29,30 (CB), 1,6,15,22 (PB) 
Chennai  September  1,4,5,6,7,8,11,12,13,14,15,18,19,20,21,22,25,26,27,28,29 (CB), 6,13,27 (PB) 
  October  3,4,5,6,9,10,11,12,13,16,17,18,19,20,23,24,25,26,27,30,31 (CB) 
  November  1,2,3,6,7,8,9,10,13,14,15,16,17,20,21,22,23,24,27,28,29,30 (CB), 1,6,15,22 (PB) 
Delhi  September  1,4,5,6,7,8,11,12,13,14,15,18,19,20,21,22,25,26,27,28,29 (CB), 6,13,27 (PB) 
  October  3,4,5,6,9,10,11,12,13,16,17,18,19,20,23,24,25,26,27,30,31 (CB) 
  November  1,2,3,6,7,8,9,10,13,14,15,16,17,20,21,22,23,24,27,28,29,30 (CB), 1,6,15,22 (PB) 
Gurgaon  September  1,4,5,6,7,8,11,12,13,14,15,18,19,20,21,22,25,26,27,28,29 (CB), 6,13,27 (PB) 
  October  3,4,5,6,9,10,11,12,13,16,17,18,19,20,23,24,25,26,27,30,31 (CB) 
  November  1,2,3,6,7,8,9,10,13,14,15,16,17,20,21,22,23,24,27,28,29,30 (CB), 1,6,15,22 (PB) 
Noida  September  1,4,5,6,7,8,11,12,13,14,15,18,19,20,21,22,25,26,27,28,29 (CB), 6,13,27 (PB) 
  October  3,4,5,6,9,10,11,12,13,16,17,18,19,20,23,24,25,26,27,30,31 (CB) 
  November  1,2,3,6,7,8,9,10,13,14,15,16,17,20,21,22,23,24,27,28,29,30 (CB), 1,6,15,22 (PB) 
Bangalore  September  1,4,5,6,7,8,11,12,13,14,15,18,19,20,21,22,25,26,27,28,29 (CB), 6,13,27 (PB) 
  October  3,4,5,6,9,10,11,12,13,16,17,18,19,20,23,24,25,26,27,30,31 (CB), 4,11,18,25 (PB) 
  November  1,2,3,6,7,8,9,10,13,14,15,16,17,20,21,22,23,24,27,28,29,30 (CB), 1,8,15,22 (PB) 
Pune  September  1,4,5,6,7,8,11,12,13,14,15,18,19,20,21,22,25,26,27,28,29 (CB), 6,13,27 (PB) 
  October  3,4,5,6,9,10,11,12,13,16,17,18,19,20,23,24,25,26,27,30,31 (CB), 4,11,18,25 (PB) 
  November  1,2,3,6,7,8,9,10,13,14,15,16,17,20,21,22,23,24,27,28,29,30 (CB), 1,8,15,22 (PB) 
Kolkata  September  1,4,5,6,7,8,11,12,13,14,15,18,19,20,21,22,25,26,27,28,29 (CB), 6,13,27 (PB) 
  October  3,4,5,6,9,10,11,12,13,16,17,18,19,20,23,24,25,26,27,30,31 (CB), 4,11,18,25 (PB) 
  November  1,2,3,6,7,8,9,10,13,14,15,16,17,20,21,22,23,24,27,28,29,30 (CB), 1,8,15,22 (PB) 
Kochi  September  1,4,5,6,7,8,11,12,13,14,15,18,19,20,21,22,25,26,27,28,29 (CB), 6,13,27 (PB) 
  October  3,4,5,6,9,10,11,12,13,16,17,18,19,20,23,24,25,26,27,30,31 (CB), 4,11,18,25 (PB) 
  November  1,2,3,6,7,8,9,10,13,14,15,16,17,20,21,22,23,24,27,28,29,30 (CB), 1,8,15,22 (PB) 
Ahmedabad  September  1,4,5,6,7,8,11,12,13,14,15,18,19,20,21,22,25,26,27,28,29 (CB), 6,13,27 (PB) 
  October  3,4,5,6,9,10,11,12,13,16,17,18,19,20,23,24,25,26,27,30,31 (CB), 4,11,18,25 (PB) 
  November  1,2,3,6,7,8,9,10,13,14,15,16,17,20,21,22,23,24,27,28,29,30 (CB), 1,8,15,22 (PB) 

IELTS Academic vs General Training Dates 2025 

The IELTS exam is available in two formats: Academic and General Training (GT). The Academic test runs on all 48 paper-based test days plus daily computer-delivered slots. The GT test is available only on select paper-based dates, but can also be taken daily on a computer. 

When to Choose Academic IELTS 

  • Required for university or college admissions abroad. 
  • Needed for student visas and higher education programs. 
  • Accepted globally for academic and professional courses. 

When to Choose General Training IELTS 

  • Required for immigration, PR, or work visas. 
  • Useful for secondary education, vocational training, or work placements. 
  • Focuses on practical English for everyday and workplace settings. 

IELTS 2025 Paper-Based Academic vs GT Dates 

Month 2025  Academic Dates  Academic + GT Dates 
January  25  4, 16 
February  1, 22  8, 22 
March  15  8, 22 
April  12, 24  5, 26 
May  3, 17  8, 24 
June  14, 19, 28  7, 21 
July  10, 19  5, 26 
August  2, 9  7, 23 
September  6, 18  13, 27 
October  9, 25  4, 18 
November  1, 15  6, 22 
December  4, 11  6, 20, 27 

How to Check IELTS Exam Dates and Availability 

Since IELTS is held year-round, candidates must confirm upcoming IELTS exam dates before booking. The availability of dates depends on the city, test centre capacity, test type (Academic/General Training), and mode (paper vs. computer). The best way to confirm is through the official IELTS booking portals. 

Step-by-Step on IDP Website (India) 

To check IELTS exam dates in India, follow this process on the IDP IELTS India website: 

  1. Go to the IELTS registration page on the IDP website. 
  2. Select your preferred city from the drop-down list. Major cities like Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, and Hyderabad have both paper-based and computer-delivered options. 
  3. Choose your test module – Academic (for higher studies) or General Training (for work and immigration). 
  4. Pick your exam mode – Paper-based (fixed 48 global dates) or Computer-delivered (almost daily with multiple slots). 
  5. Select the month you want to take the exam. 
  6. The system will display all upcoming IELTS exam dates along with the available slots (morning, afternoon, or evening). 
  7. Once you pick a date, you can proceed to payment and registration to secure your booking. 

Test Centre Availability (Other Countries) 

For candidates outside India, IELTS test dates can be checked on the official IELTS portal: ielts.org. 

  • UK – Dates are published through both IDP IELTS and the British Council booking platforms. Centres across London, Manchester, and Birmingham list multiple monthly slots. 
  • USA – IELTS USA manages registrations. Dates can be searched by state or city, and many centres offer weekly computer-delivered exams. 
  • Australia – IDP IELTS Australia provides a country-specific date finder, with near-daily availability in metro locations like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. 

IELTS Exam Registration Deadlines 2025 

There is no specific IELTS registration cutoff date, as is the case with university applications. Appliances are allowed to book the slots online up to the point that all slots at a test centre are filled. But, as it is in high demand, particularly during university deadlines and visa seasons, it is heavily advisable to book early.  

To ensure you get your choice of date, city, and mode of the test, the best practice is to reserve your IELTS exam 2-3 months before the test. 

 Booking Deadlines for Paper-Based IELTS 

  • Paper-based IELTS is conducted on 48 fixed global dates (usually Thursdays and Saturdays). 
  • In popular cities like Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, and Hyderabad, these slots fill up quickly. 
  • For candidates targeting specific months (Sept–Dec for university intakes), early registration is essential. 
  • Best practice: Book your slot at least 6–8 weeks in advance for paper-based IELTS. 

Booking Deadlines for Computer-Delivered IELTS 

  • Computer-based IELTS is available almost daily, with multiple slots (morning, afternoon, evening). 
  • While it offers greater flexibility, seats can still fill up during peak admission and immigration seasons (Jan–March, Aug–Oct). 
  • Best practice: Even for computer-based exams, book 4–6 weeks in advance if you want a specific city, centre, or time slot. 

IELTS Exam Reschedule and Cancellation Policies 

Life just occurs; sometimes you might have to reschedule or cancel your IELTS test. There are rules to both, and being able to know the rules beforehand will save you time and money. This is the breakdown of how it works. 

How to Reschedule IELTS Exam Date 

Rescheduling (also called test date transfer) lets you move your test to a new date without fully cancelling. 

Key Points: 

  • You must apply for rescheduling at least 5 weeks before your original test date. 
  • You can choose a new date within 3 months of the original booking. 
  • A reschedule/transfer fee is charged (varies by test centre). 

Step-by-Step to Reschedule on the IDP Portal: 

  1. Visit the IDP IELTS official website. 
  2. Log in to your Candidate Portal with your registered email and password. 
  3. Select the IELTS test you want to move. 
  4. Click Request Transfer/Reschedule. 
  5. Pick your new test date and city (if available). 
  6. Pay the transfer fee online to confirm your booking. 

IELTS Cancellation Policy and Refunds 

If you decide not to take the exam, you can cancel your booking, but refunds depend on when you cancel. 

Refund Rules: 

  • More than 5 weeks before the test date → You’ll receive a refund, but an administrative fee (around 25% of the total fee) will be deducted. 
  • Less than 5 weeks before the test date → No refund is given; the entire fee is forfeited. 
  • On the test day / No-show → No refund at all. 

Special Cases:  

If you couldn’t attend due to a serious medical condition, you may apply for a refund with valid medical documents. IDP reviews these on a case-by-case basis. 

How to Cancel Your IELTS Test: 

  1. Log in to the IDP IELTS candidate portal. 
  2. Select your booked test. 
  3. Click on Request Cancellation. 
  4. Provide the reason (and upload medical proof if applicable). 
  5. Wait for IDP’s confirmation; refunds are usually processed within 4–6 weeks. 

Also Read: How to Cancel IELTS Exam: Reschedule & Refund Process  

Download E-Books for IELTS Preparation

IELTS IDIOMS GUIDE
ielts sample essays

IELTS Exam Result Dates and TRF Delivery 

The date of release of your IELTS outcome will be based on either the computer-based test or the paper-based test. Computer tests require only a few days to provide results, whereas paper tests require almost two weeks. Once results have been published, you will also be issued a Test Report Form (TRF), the official score publication.  

The TRF may be provided as a printed copy (by mail or test centre supervision) and as an electronic copy, which may be submitted directly to universities or immigration departments. 

Result Timeline for Paper-Based IELTS 

Paper tests take longer to process, so results are not immediate. 

  • Results released 13 days after test date 
  • TRF sent via courier/post right after release 
  • Results available on the IDP portal on release day 

Result Timeline for Computer-Based IELTS 

Computer-based tests are faster, making them ideal for urgent applications. 

  • Results available in 3–5 days 
  • TRF generated and dispatched soon after 
  • Best suited for tight university/visa deadlines 

How to Access Your IELTS Results 

You can check scores online, receive a hard copy, or send them directly to institutions. 

  • Online: Candidate login portal (IDP/British Council) 
  • Offline: Hard copy TRF delivered by courier or test centre collection 
  • Institutions: Up to 5 TRFs sent free directly to universities/immigration offices 
  • Validity: Results remain valid for 2 years 

Also Check: IELTS Tips and Tricks to Boost Your Band Score 

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How to Choose the Right IELTS Exam Date 

The right date to take the IELTS exam may mean the difference between your plans to study abroad or immigrate. The most risk-averse approach is to reserve your test 6-8 weeks before your application deadlines to allow enough buffer time to obtain results, deliver TRFs, and possibly reschedule as necessary.  

Many students end up wasting time (and money) when they make bookings too near the deadlines, when they neglect visa schedules, or when they choose to book more than one slot without the need to do so. 

Here are some practical tips to keep in mind:

  • Match the exam with your peak prep readiness. 
  • Factor in busy periods like festivals or academic exam seasons when seats fill quickly. 
  • Always keep a buffer window in case you need to reschedule. 

Aligning with University Deadlines 

University applications are time-sensitive, and missing deadlines can cost you an entire intake. 

  • Book IELTS 2–3 months before the university application deadline. 
  • Remember: some universities require official TRFs, so factor in delivery time. 
  • If applying abroad, consider whether multiple institutions need direct TRF dispatch. 

Considering Visa and Immigration Timelines 

Immigration and visa processes have their own timelines, and IELTS is often a non-negotiable document. 

  • Always book early enough to align with embassy or visa office requirements. 
  • Keep in mind that your IELTS TRF must be valid when submitted. 
  • A delayed booking can lead to postponed PR, work visa, or travel plans. 

Picking Dates Around Personal Preparation 

Your personal readiness matters just as much as application deadlines. 

  • Take the test only when your mock scores are stable and near your target band. 
  • For computer-delivered IELTS, choose a morning or afternoon slot based on when you perform best. 
  • Avoid booking during college exams, work deadlines, or family events to stay stress-free. 

Must check: How to Prepare for IELTS at Home: The Ultimate Study Guide 

Conclusion 

It is all about timing and planning in booking the right IELTS exam date in 2025. As computer-delivered tests appear nearly every day and paper-based tests are offered on predetermined dates, candidates can choose at their own discretion, but at the same time, it is their duty to book early. Keep in mind that it can take 3 to 5 days (computer-based) or 13 days (paper-based) to get results, and universities, visa offices, and employers can be very strict in deadline constraints. 

In case you are targeting overseas study or immigration, you should schedule your IELTS test in line with application dates, visa application criteria, and your individual level of preparation. The trick is to reserve at least 2 to 3 months beforehand, and then you have some time to reschedule or face unforeseen roadblocks. 

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FAQs

Is 7.5 a good IELTS score?

7.5 band in IELTS is an excellent score. Most top universities in countries like the UK, Canada, and Australia accept students with a 7.0 or above. With 7.5, you’ll meet English proficiency requirements for almost all academic programs, including competitive ones. For immigration, it often exceeds the minimum threshold, giving you an advantage.

Is IELTS held every month?

Yes, IELTS is conducted year-round. The paper-based version has around 48 fixed test days in a year, spread across months. In contrast, computer-delivered IELTS is available almost daily at many test centres, giving you more flexibility. The availability of test slots may still depend on your city and demand.

Is IELTS 6.5 a pass or fail?

IELTS doesn’t have a “pass” or “fail.” Instead, you receive a band score from 0 to 9. A 6.5 is considered a “competent user” level of English. Many universities accept 6.5 for admission, though some highly ranked institutions may require a higher score, such as 7.0 or 7.5.

Which month is easiest for IELTS?

There isn’t a specific month that makes IELTS easier. The test is designed to have a consistent level of difficulty throughout the year. What can make a difference is timing; avoid busy seasons like December or June, when university and visa deadlines crowd test centres, making booking stressful.

How soon can I retake IELTS if I don’t get my desired score?

There’s no waiting period for retaking IELTS. You can book another test right away, even within the same month, if slots are available. However, experts recommend using the time between tests to review your mistakes, practice under timed conditions, and strengthen weak areas for a better outcome.

Do universities accept IELTS scores from both paper and computer tests?

Yes, universities and immigration authorities treat both formats equally. Whether you take IELTS on paper or computer, the test structure and scoring criteria remain the same. The only difference is convenience and result timelines, with computer-delivered IELTS results arriving faster.

How many times can I take IELTS in a year?

You can attempt IELTS as many times as you wish. There’s no restriction on the number of attempts per year. Many candidates retake the exam to achieve a higher score, but it’s best to schedule a retake after additional preparation instead of rushing into multiple tests.

Can I prepare for IELTS in one month?

Yes, it’s possible if your English proficiency is already strong. One month of targeted practice focusing on listening, reading, writing, and speaking can boost your confidence. For beginners, however, more time is usually needed to develop fluency and test-taking strategies, especially for academic writing.

Do IELTS exam dates differ by country?

Yes, IELTS paper-based exam dates can vary slightly depending on the test location. For example, while India may have specific Saturdays and Thursdays scheduled, other countries might follow different patterns. Computer-based IELTS, however, is available more frequently across countries like the UK, USA, and Australia.

Can IELTS scores be sent directly to universities?

Yes, when you register, you can choose up to five universities or institutions to receive your scores free of cost. Additional score reports can be sent later for a fee. Results are shared either electronically or through courier, and universities usually accept the official TRF sent by IELTS partners.

Is IELTS harder than TOEFL or PTE?

Not really, it depends on your strengths. IELTS has a face-to-face speaking test, which some candidates prefer, while TOEFL and PTE are entirely computer-based. IELTS writing tasks also differ slightly in style. If you’re comfortable with conversational English, IELTS might feel easier; if you prefer typing, TOEFL/PTE may suit you better.

Anupriya Mukherjee

Sr. Content Writer |71 articles published

Anupriya Mukherjee is a passion-driven professional working as a Content Marketer and earlier worked as a Digital Marketeer. With around 6 years of work experience, she has experience creating high-qu...

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