International English Language
Testing System (IELTS)
Your Complete Guide
IELTS Exam 2026:
Registration, Dates, and Guide
Planning to study, work, or migrate abroad in 2026? The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is one of the world’s most trusted English language tests. It measures your skills in Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking, and is accepted by over 11,000 universities, employers, and organizations worldwide.
For many students, professionals, and migrants, IELTS is the first step in the journey abroad.
Who Conducts IELTS?
IELTS is jointly owned by:
In countries like India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and more, IELTS is conducted through both IDP and British Council authorized test centers.
No matter where you take the test, your certificate (Test Report Form, TRF) is the same. It doesn’t show whether you booked via IDP or British Council.
- IDP Education
- Cambridge Assessment English
- The British Council
IELTS Exam Fees (2026)
Fees vary by country and test type. On average, expect:
IELTS Academic / General Training
IELTS for UKVI
IELTS Exam Dates & Calendar (2026)
IELTS is held throughout the year:
Computer-delivered IELTS
Paper-based IELTS
Test Centers (Global)
IELTS has a wide network of authorized centers worldwide.
In countries where Uniaptix operates, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Nepal and Sri Lanka, you’ll find multiple centers managed by IDP or British Council.
IELTS Exam Pattern (2026)
Total test duration: 2 hours 45 minutes
Listening
30 minutes
(40 questions)
Reading
60 minutes
(40 questions)
Writing
60 minutes
(2 Task)
Speaking
11–14 minutes (face-to-face with an examiner)
Scoring system:
- Each section scored on a Band scale (1–9)
- Your overall band = average of the four sections
- Most universities ask for 6.0–7.0 overall; top courses may require higher
Eligibility (2026)
AGE
Minimum 16 years recommended
EDUCATION
No academic restrictions — anyone can take IELTS
DOCUMENTS
A valid passport (or accepted national ID) required for registration and test day
Registration Process (2026)
Register online (fastest) or offline at your nearest test center.
Online
- Visit the official IELTS website
- Choose test type (Academic, General, UKVI, or Life Skills)
- Select computer or paper format
- Pick your country, city, date, and time
- Upload your ID (usually passport)
- Pay the fee and get confirmation
Offline
- Download the registration form, complete it, select your test center/date, and submit it with payment and ID at your nearest test center.
Results & Score Reporting (2026)
Computer-delivered IELTS
Results in 3–5 days
Paper-based IELTS
Results in ~13 days
Results access
Online via IELTS login, plus email notification
Sending scores
Universities and organizations accept secure electronic delivery directly from IELTS
How to Prepare for IELTS 2026
Take a mock test to see your current level
Build a study plan covering all four skills
Practice Listening & Reading daily (focus on timing)
For Writing: structure essays clearly (intro, body, conclusion)
For Speaking: practice fluency, pronunciation, and confidence
Use official IELTS practice books & resources
Expose yourself to English media daily (news, podcasts, movies)
Uniaptix Tip: We can guide you with mock tests, Speaking/Writing feedback, and a prep strategy tailored to your target band.
FAQs (2026)
Ans: Yes, IELTS scores are usually valid for 2 years from your test date.
Ans: Yes, IELTS Online is available in some countries, but check if your chosen university or visa accepts it.
Ans: The content is the same, so choose the format you feel more comfortable with (for example, typing vs handwriting).
Ans: There is no limit, you can take IELTS as many times as you like.
Ans: No, some accept other English tests or may waive IELTS if you meet their English-language requirements in other ways.
Disclaimer: IELTS® is a registered trademark of Cambridge Assessment English, British Council, and IDP Education. Uniaptix is not associated with or endorsed by the IELTS owners. Information provided here is for guidance purposes only.