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Find Your College Fit →Planning to study abroad in 2025? The IELTS exam fee in India is one of the first costs you'll encounter on your journey. Understanding the complete cost breakdown—including registration fees, hidden charges, and payment options—can help you budget effectively and avoid surprises.
The IELTS test fee 2025 cost in India ranges from ₹16,250 to ₹17,500 depending on whether you choose computer-based or paper-based testing. This guide breaks down every rupee you'll spend, explores payment methods, reveals hidden costs, and shares strategies to reduce your overall expenses.
What Is the IELTS Exam Fee in 2025?
The IELTS exam fee India 2025 varies based on the test format. As of October 2025, the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is administered in India primarily by IDP. The fee includes the complete examination covering Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
| IELTS Type | Test Mode | Fee (INR) | Conducted By |
|---|---|---|---|
| Academic & General Training | Computer-Based | ₹16,250 | IDP |
| Academic & General Training | Paper-Based | ₹17,500 | IDP |
Quick Answer: The IELTS fee is ₹16,250 for computer-based tests and ₹17,500 for paper-based tests. Most students choose the Academic version, with computer-based testing becoming popular due to faster results.
IELTS Academic vs General: Which One Costs More?
A common question is whether IELTS Academic and General Training differ in price. The answer is no: both versions have identical pricing. The fee is determined by the delivery mode (computer vs paper) rather than the test type.
Full Fee Breakdown: Computer-Based vs Paper-Based
The pricing difference reflects operational costs and result delivery timelines. Computer-based IELTS (CB-IELTS) costs ₹16,250, offering more frequent test dates and faster results (3-5 days). Paper-based IELTS at ₹17,500 offers a traditional format that some test-takers prefer, with results in 13 days.
💰 Find Scholarships to Cover Your Costs
Don't let fees hold you back. Orbit's Scholarship Matcher identifies funding opportunities tailored to your profile, helping you cover exam fees, tuition, and more.
Find Scholarships Now →Hidden IELTS Costs You Might Miss (Retake, Score Reports)
Beyond the base fee, several additional expenses can arise:
- Additional Score Reports: Your fee includes five free reports. Each extra report costs approximately ₹1,200-₹1,500.
- Retake Fees: If your score falls short, you'll pay the full exam fee again. There are no discounts for retakes.
- Enquiry on Results (EOR): Requesting a rescore costs approximately ₹8,000-₹9,500 per section.
- Late Registration Fees: Booking late often incurs surcharges of ₹2,000-₹3,000.
Budget Reality Check: The true cost of IELTS preparation can range from ₹25,000 to ₹75,000, including prep materials, mock tests, and potential retakes.
IELTS Fee Payment: Online, UPI, Cards, and Refunds
Paying your IELTS fee in India is convenient through the official IDP portal. Accepted methods include credit/debit cards, net banking, UPI (Google Pay, PhonePe), and digital wallets like Paytm. Partial refunds (75%) are available if you cancel more than 5 weeks before your test date.
🎯 What's Your Target IELTS Score?
Not sure what band score you need? Orbit's Right Fit Matcher analyzes your target universities and recommends the minimum IELTS scores required for competitive applications.
Find Your Best-Fit Schools →How to Register for IELTS in India 2025
Registering for IELTS follows a straightforward online process through the official IDP website. Here’s the step-by-step guide:
- Visit the official IDP IELTS website and create your account.
- Select your test type (Academic/General) and format (computer/paper).
- Choose your test date and location.
- Complete your personal information, ensuring it matches your passport exactly.
- Specify up to five institutions to receive your scores for free.
- Pay the registration fee online.
- Download your confirmation and admission letter about a week before the test.
Discounts, Scholarships, and Fee Waivers for IELTS
While direct discounts are rare, you can reduce costs through scholarships, institutional support, and strategic planning. Check with your college's international office, state education departments for fee reimbursement programs, or explore educational consultant packages.
Orbit Success Strategy: Before paying for IELTS, use Orbit's Scholarship Matcher to identify funding opportunities that include test fee coverage. Students using this strategic approach save an average of ₹25,000-₹50,000 in total application costs.
IELTS vs TOEFL: Cost Comparison in 2025
The base fees for IELTS and TOEFL in India are very similar. Your choice should depend on your target universities' preferences and your comfort with the test format, not just the cost. Always verify your target universities' requirements before deciding.
🚀 Ready for a Practice Run?
Orbit's Scholarship Matcher can find funding opportunities to cover your prep costs. Use it to find scholarships, then invest in quality preparation to ace the test on your first try.
Find My Scholarships →FAQs: IELTS Fee 2025 India
What is the IELTS exam fee in India in 2025?
Are there any discounts for IELTS?
Can I pay IELTS fees through UPI or Paytm?
How much does the IELTS retake cost?
Is IELTS cheaper than TOEFL?
Final Take: What to Do If You Can't Afford the IELTS Right Now?
The IELTS test fee is a significant investment, but financial constraints shouldn't derail your study abroad dreams. Start with free diagnostic tools, explore alternative funding sources, and consider more affordable tests like the Duolingo English Test if your target universities accept it. Strategic planning can help you manage costs while keeping your application competitive.
🎯 Ready to Start Your Study Abroad Journey?
Orbit helps you navigate every step—from IELTS preparation to university selection to scholarship applications. Your dream university is within reach.
Start with Orbit Today →Related Posts
devanshdubey.nitd.cse@gmail.com
December 27, 2025
An experienced writer and researcher focused on college admissions, this author simplifies the complex journey of applying to universities. They create practical, student-friendly content on entrance exams, application strategies, essays, and admission planning. With a strong emphasis on clarity and real-world guidance, their work helps students and parents make informed decisions, avoid common mistakes, and confidently navigate competitive admissions processes to find the right academic fit.
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