Students aspiring to study abroad are required to prove that their English language proficiency is up to the mark, for the country in which they want to study. This is where language testing systems such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) play an instrumental role in establishing the level of proficiency for the English language among students from different nationalities and education systems. A valid band/score in the IELTS exam portrays an individual’s ability to read, write, listen and speak in English at the level of higher education abroad.

The IELTS exam can be taken by students aspiring to study at undergraduate and postgraduate level courses at colleges and universities in English speaking countries. To take the IELTS, an applicant must be at least 16 years of age and hold a valid passport, since your passport, with at least six months of validity, is the only identity document accepted to appear for the IELTS. You must note that the IELTS scores are valid for two years. This means that your IELTS scores may be valid until you are 18 years of age, which is usually the minimum age requirement to apply to a college or a university at a degree level. 

You may apply and register for the IELTS exam online in India either through British Council or IDP. The cost of registration and IELTS fees remain the same, irrespective of the test provider. In addition to your passport, you will also be required to pay the IELTS fees, which is usually USD 200 (approximately INR 14,000) at the time of submitting the application form. The IELTS exam fees cover the cost of the examination, the Speaking test with a supervisor as well as providing your IELTS scores to your desired higher education institution(s).

As an applicant aspiring to study abroad, you may apply to take the IELTS if you are considering studying in any of the following countries:

  • The UK
  • Australia
  • Canada
  • New Zealand
  • The USA
  • The Netherlands

You should book your test slot at least 20 days before the exam to ensure that you get the desired date and slot for the test and have ample time to prepare for the test. For registration, the TC Global team can assist you in filling up the registration form as well as booking your test slot. For the pen and paper IELTS, the results are declared online within 13 days, and thereafter within 7 days, your scorecard reaches your home through a courier/speed post. For the IELTS online examination, it takes 5 working days for the scores to be declared online. Please keep in mind that the official IELTS Test Report Form (TRF) denotes your official IELTS scores and should be shared with the college/university to which you have applied, for your scores to be considered.

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