New IELTS Paper Fees 2025: Updated Costs & Key Information

Written by

Mynaz Altaf

Fact check by

Divyansh Chaudhari

Updated on

Jul 24,2025

IELTS Paper Fees: Latest Updates, City-Wise Breakdown & Expert Insights - TerraTern

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Are you considering taking the paper-based IELTS test sometime in 2025? Well, keeping up to date about the latest IELTS paper fees is of utmost importance while calculating your cost, which is one of the prerequisites before leaving for a study abroad program or applying for immigration. With new changes in the IELTS paper based test fee structure among the different cities, it’s high time one knows the exact IELTS paper fees 2025. This guide follows with a detailed city-wise breakdown, updates on new changes, and expert opinions for your wise budgeting and confident preparations.

 

Latest Facts & News on IELTS Paper Fees 2025

Before you book your test, here’s everything you need to know about the IELTS paper fees 2025, including the current IELTS paper fees 2025 in India, recent price updates, and important policies to keep in mind.

  • The IELTS exam fee in India for 2025 is INR 18,000 for both paper-based and computer-based tests, applicable to both Academic and General Training modules.

  • The fee is standardized across all Indian cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, and more.

  • The IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) costs slightly more at INR 18,250.

  • The IELTS Life Skills (A1 & B1) test is priced at INR 17,000.

  • One Skill Retake (OSR) is available for INR 12,000.

  • The IELTS fee was increased by INR 1,000 in 2025 from the previous year.

  • Rescheduling the test costs INR 4,500; cancellation refunds vary by timing.

  • The first five Additional Test Report Forms (ATRFs) are free; extra copies cost INR 250-300 per university.

  • Payment methods include credit/debit cards, net banking, UPI, and demand drafts.

  • IELTS fee is non-refundable if canceled within 5 weeks of the test date, except for medical emergencies.

Also Read: Documents Required for IELTS Exam: Latest Checklist

What is the IELTS Paper Fees 2025? 

A woman reading a book; IELTS Paper Fees - TerraTern

The IELTS paper fees in India for the year 2025 have a set price of INR 18,000 for both Academic and General Training modules. The fees for IELTS paper based test fee will remain the same, regardless of whether a test taker chooses an option between paper-based or computer-based formats. IELTS paper fees 2025 must be kept up to date to properly organize your application and exam strategy.

City-Wise IELTS Paper Fees in India

The IELTS paper fees in India are uniform across major cities, ensuring fairness and consistency for all candidates. Below is a city-wise table outlining the IELTS paper based test fee across key test locations:

City

IELTS Paper Fees 2025 (INR)

Delhi

18,000

Mumbai

18,000

Bangalore

18,000

Chennai

18,000

Hyderabad

18,000

Kolkata

18,000

Pune

18,000

Ahmedabad

18,000

Chandigarh

18,000

Others

18,000

 

IELTS Paper Based Test Fee vs Computer Based Test Fee

Many students wonder if there's a cost difference between the paper and computer formats. Here’s a side-by-side comparison of the IELTS paper based test fee and other variants:

Test Type

Fee (INR)

IELTS Paper Based Test

18,000

IELTS Computer Based Test

18,000

IELTS for UKVI (Paper/Comp)

18,250

What Does the IELTS Paper Fee Include? 

Understanding what is included in the IELTS paper fees will provide critical information for implementing your budgeting plan. This section covers IELTS paper fees 2025, which include several indispensable services to help you through the exam process. The IELTS paper fees usually include:

  • Test Registration: For both Academic and General Training modules. 

  • Official Practice Materials: Some test centers provide free or discounted access to practice resources. 

  • Test-Day Services: These mainly include identity checks, supervised testing conditions, and administrative support. 

  • Score Report Generation: One official Test Report Form (TRF) is included. 

  • Five Free ATRFs: Your IELTS scores can be sent to five different institutions free of charge.

Additional Charges & Optional Services

While the regular IELTS paper fees cover everything essential for the test, additional costs may be charged for additional auxiliary facilities. The following is the most common of these extra costs.

  • Reschedule Fee: For rescheduling the test more than 5 weeks before the scheduled date: INR 4,500

  • Cancellation Fee: Refunds vary according to the time when the test is canceled 

  • Rechecking (Enquiry on Results): INR 12,000

  • Each ATRF After the First Five: INR 250-300 per university

  • One Skill Retake (OSR): INR 12,000 (this option is available only in certain centers)

Also Read: Everything About IELTS Learning & Exam Is Right Here!

How to Pay the IELTS Paper Based Test Fee in 2025?

Rolled dollar bills; IELTS Paper Fees - TerraTern

The IELTS paper fees 2025 payment is a pretty simple method. However, please make sure that you perform and comply with the steps correctly for successful registration. The process followed remains the same in all test centers in India, whether you're applying for the Academic or General Training test. The following is a step-by-step guide to paying IELTS paper fees 2025: 

  1. Register Online: Go to the official IELTS India website or the authorized test partner platforms (IDP or British Council), and select test type and location. 

  1. Test Format Selection: If you are not opting for the computer-delivered test, ensure you choose the paper-based version. The IELTS paper fees for both these test formats are INR 18,000 as of today. 

  1. Fill in the Application Form: Give in your details, upload your ID proof, and confirm your convenient test date and city. 

  1. Make Payment: Payment methods available are:

  • Credit or debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, etc.)

  • Net banking

  • UPI

  • Demand draft (applicable in selected centers only) 

  1. Acknowledgment Receipt: After your payment is successful, you will receive acknowledgement via email giving details about your test along with the payment receipt. This serves as a confirmation that your IELTS paper-based test fee has been processed.

IELTS Paper Fees 2025: Refunds, Rescheduling, and Cancellations

During your IELTS test planning, it becomes necessary to learn the policies around refunds, rescheduling, and cancellations, in order not to incur great loss incurring unnecessary costs and help you make sound decisions about the procedures regarding the IELTS paper fees on such occasions.

Refund Policy for IELTS Paper Fees 2025

If you're unable to take the test and need to cancel, you may be eligible for a refund depending on the timing of your request:

  • Cancellation 5+ Weeks Before Test Date: Partial refund of the IELTS paper fees after deducting administrative charges.

  • Cancellation Within 5 Weeks of the Test: No refund is provided unless it's due to a valid medical reason, supported by official documents.

  • Failure to Appear: Considered a no-show; no refund of IELTS paper fees unless in case of a verified emergency.

Rescheduling Charges in 2025

This can be done, but you have to pay fees depending on how early you apply for rescheduling:

  • Reschedule 5+ Weeks in Advance: Allowed with a rescheduling fee of INR 4,500.

  • Reschedule Within 5 Weeks: Treated as a cancellation; no refund of the IELTS paper based test fee unless there’s a valid reason.

Also Read: Minimum IELTS Score for Australia Work Visa: Latest Guide

IELTS Paper Fees for UKVI & Life Skills Tests 2025

Alphabets on scrabble tiles; IELTS Paper Fees - TerraTern

In addition to the usual IELTS Academic and General Training tests, candidates who wish to apply for a UK visa may also need to take a specific test like IELTS for UKVI or IELTS Life Skills. The costs for these tests vary from those of an ordinary paper-based IELTS test. Here's a continuation of the breakdown of current charges for 2025:

Test Type

Test Format 

Fee (INR)

IELTS for UKVI (Academic/General)

Paper or Computer Based

18,250

IELTS Life Skills A1

Paper based

17,000

IELTS Life Skills B1

Paper Based

17,000

Latest Scholarships & Discounts on IELTS Paper Fees

Though the IELTS paper fees may be a big expense for many students, several organizations and institutions provide support in scholarships and financial aid forms. These options can alleviate the burden of the IELTS paper-based test fee, particularly for students belonging to the economically weaker class. Here are some common ways test takers can find support with the IELTS paper fees: 

  • British Council IELTS Scholarships (where available): These are offered in some locations on an annual basis to assist students applying for international universities.

  • University-Based IELTS Fee Reimbursements: Some foreign universities offer to cover or reimburse IELTS paper fees once the student has been successfully admitted. 

  • State or National Government Schemes: For example, the National Overseas Scholarship program (India) sometimes erects the IELTS paper-based test fee as part of the application requirements.

  • NGOs & Education Foundations: Some non-profits offer aid for test fees or IELTS scholarships allotted on merit or financial need.

  • Seasonal Discounts by Test Providers: Agencies such as IDP or the British Council may periodically hand out promo codes or put on time-limited discounts on IELTS paper fees.

Also Read: Is 7.5 a Good IELTS Score? Here is the Truth

Latest Changes in IELTS Paper Fees 2025

Laptop and books on a table; IELTS Paper Fees  - TerraTern

The IELTS paper fees 2025 have undergone significant revisions, effective from March 1, 2025, reflecting a nationwide increase in India. These adjustments apply to both paper-based and computer-delivered test formats.

Test Type

Fee(INR)

IELTS Paper Based (Academic/General)

Rs. 18,000

IELTS Computer Based (Academic/General)

Rs. 18,000

IELTS for UKVI (Paper/Computer)

Rs. 18,250

IELTS Life Skills (A1/B1)

Rs. 17,000

One Skill Retake (OSR)

Rs. 12,000

 

Conclusion

Getting acquainted with IELTS paper fees 2025 is essential for anyone intending to sit for the IELTS paper-based test in the current year. Knowing that there is a standard fee of INR 18,000 in all cities of India helps in the planning of one's budget. Understanding the differences between the ielts paper-based test fee and other test formats like the UKVI and Life Skills will help you select the correct option. Being familiar with additional charges, accepted payment methods, refund policies, and discounts offered is vital in ensuring an enjoyable registration experience. Stay tuned for updates about the IELTS paper fees to concentrate more on preparation and less on surprises. To know more such information, visit TerraTern.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the IELTS paper fees 2025 in India?

The IELTS paper fees 2025 in India are INR 18,000 for both Academic and General Training modules. This fee is applicable for both paper-based and computer-based formats. It remains the same across all major cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and others. The uniform pricing helps ensure fairness and transparency for all test-takers nationwide.

Is there a difference between IELTS paper based test fee and computer based test fee?

No, there is no difference in cost. Both the IELTS paper based test fee and computer-based test fee are set at INR 18,000 in 2025. The choice depends on personal preference and test center availability. However, UKVI and Life Skills tests have slightly different fees due to specific visa-related requirements.

What services are included in the IELTS paper fees?

The IELTS paper fees cover test registration, official test-day services, and the generation of your Test Report Form (TRF). It also includes up to five free Additional Test Report Forms (ATRFs) sent to institutions. Payment grants access to a globally recognized English proficiency test accepted by universities, employers, and immigration authorities.

Can I get a refund or reschedule my IELTS test?

Yes, but policies apply. If you cancel more than 5 weeks before the test, you may receive a partial refund after deducting administrative fees. Rescheduling also requires a fee of INR 4,500. No refund is given for cancellations within 5 weeks unless you provide valid medical documentation.

Are there any scholarships or discounts on IELTS paper fees?

Yes, some organizations offer support to help reduce the IELTS paper fees. Scholarships may be available through the British Council, certain universities, or government schemes like India’s National Overseas Scholarship. Occasionally, test providers like IDP offer seasonal discounts or promotional offers. Always check eligibility and deadlines before applying.