IELTS Exam Dates in India (2026): Monthly & City-wise IELTS Dates

IELTS exam dates in India are available throughout the year, with tests conducted multiple times every month across major cities. Paper-based IELTS is offered on up to 48 fixed dates annually, while computer-delivered IELTS is available almost daily, including weekends, depending on test centre capacity. Both IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training are offered in India, though date availability varies by module and format.

This guide provides a city-wise overview of IELTS dates for 2026 in India and explains how test format, module type, and demand can affect date availability. 

Key Highlights:

• IELTS Academic test dates are available on all 48 dates of the year.
• IELTS General Training is offered on 24 dates across the year.
• IELTS is conducted all year round in India, with around 48 fixed test dates annually for paper-based exams.
• IELTS Academic is available on all test dates, while IELTS General Training is offered on fewer dates.
• Computer-delivered IELTS is available 7 days a week, with multiple slots per day across cities.
• Candidates are advised to register 2 to 3 months in advance to secure preferred test dates and centres.

IELTS Exam Dates in India (2026)

In India, IELTS is available in paper and computer formats, with test dates available across cities to help students plan according to their preparation.
Here are a few insights on IELTS dates 2026:

• IELTS Paper-based: Conducted up to 4 times a month, with a total of 48 test dates in a year.
• IELTS Computer-delivered: Available almost daily, depending on test centre availability

IELTS Exam Dates for February 2026

IELTS Exam Dates for March 2026

IELTS Exam Dates for April 2026

IELTS Exam Dates for May 2026

IELTS Exam Dates (2026): Computer Delivered

Computer-delivered IELTS test dates are available seven days a week, with up to three sessions per day, making it easier for a large number of test takers to find a convenient slot.

Most IELTS test centres provide multiple time slots throughout the day, allowing candidates to choose one that best fits their schedule. Typically, the available time slots are as follows:

• 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: Please note that IELTS test centres may be closed on national holidays or regional festivals.

IELTS Test Dates 2026: Paper-Delivered

The paper-delivered IELTS, conducted by IDP India, will be available on 48 fixed test dates in 2026, with exams held up to four times a month. Most paper-based IELTS tests are scheduled on Thursdays and Saturdays across IELTS test centres in India.

Since these dates are fixed nationwide, seats in major cities such as Delhi, Hyderabad, and Punjab tend to fill up quickly. Booking the test 3 to 4 weeks in advance helps secure a preferred date and test centre.

Key Points to Know:

• Total test dates: 48 fixed paper-based IELTS dates in 2026
• Test days: Mostly Thursdays and Saturdays
• Availability: Same dates across all Indian test centres
• Booking advice: Register at least 3–4 weeks in advance

Test Format and Results:

• Exam format: Physical question paper and answer sheet
• Speaking test: Conducted separately, up to 7 days before or after the main test
• Result timeline: Paper-delivered IELTS results are released 13 calendar days after the test date

City-wise IELTS Dates for Paper-Based Test

IELTS test dates vary by city, and availability differs across test centres. Your preferred city may not offer the same test dates as others. Listening, Reading, and Writing sections are conducted on the same day, while the Speaking test may be scheduled up to 7 days before or after the main exam.

Below are the available IELTS exam dates for 2026, listed city-wise:

IELTS Exam Dates 2026 for Hyderabad

IELTS Exam Dates 2026 for Chennai

IELTS Exam Dates 2026 for Delhi

IELTS Exam Dates 2026 for Gurgaon

IELTS Exam Dates 2026 for Noida

IELTS Exam Dates 2026 for Mumbai

IELTS Exam Dates 2026 for Kolkata

IELTS Exam Dates 2026 for Bengaluru

IELTS Exam Dates 2026 for Pune

IELTS Exam Dates 2026 for Lucknow

IELTS Exam Dates 2026 for Ahmedabad

IELTS Exam Dates 2026 for Indore

IELTS Exam Dates 2026 for Chandigarh

IELTS One Skill Retake (OSR)

IELTS One Skill Retake (OSR) is a new addition to the IELTS exam. OSR basically means you can retake only one section of the IELTS exam, such as Listening, Reading, Writing, or Speaking, instead of taking the full test again.

Here are some important points about IELTS One Skill Retake that you should know:

• Who can take OSR: You should have already completed the full IELTS on Computer test at a test centre that offers One Skill Retake.
• Time limit: You should book and take the One Skill Retake within 60 days of your original IELTS test date.
• Test types covered: One Skill Retake is available for IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training tests.
• Test pattern: The retaken section follows the same format and timing as a normal IELTS test.
• Score report: You will receive a new Test Report Form (TRF) that shows your updated score for the retaken skill, along with your original scores for the other three sections.
• Where it is not available: One Skill Retake is not available for paper-based IELTS or IELTS Online tests.
• Acceptance: One Skill Retake scores are accepted for many purposes, including most Australian visa categories. You should always check if your university or organisation accepts it.

How to Select the Right IELTS Exam Date?

Selecting the perfect IELTS exam date is necessary to allow yourself ample preparation time and align with your application deadlines.

Here are some key factors to consider when making your decision:

• Preparation Time: Choose a date that gives you enough time to thoroughly prepare for the test. Consider your current schedule, study load, and other commitments.
• Application Deadlines: If you're applying to universities or institutions, ensure your exam date fits within their application deadlines. Factor in time for receiving your scores.
• Availability of Slots: Check the available test dates in advance, as popular slots may fill up quickly. It's wise to book early to secure your preferred date.
• Personal Schedule: Choose a date that doesn't clash with personal events or important commitments. Ensure you have a stress-free window to focus solely on your exam.

IELTS Test Dates: Reschedule & Cancellation Policy

Candidates who are unable to appear for their IELTS exam in 2026 can cancel or reschedule the test based on IDP and British Council rules in India. The refund or transfer eligibility depends on how early the request is made and the reason for cancellation.

IELTS Cancellation Rules 2026

• More than 5 weeks before the test date: A refund is issued after deducting a 25% administrative fee
• Less than 5 weeks before the test date: No refund is provided
• No-show on test day: Treated as a cancellation with no refund

Exceptional Circumstances (Post-Test Requests):

Candidates facing serious medical conditions, bereavement, or compulsory military service can apply for a cancellation or transfer up to 5 calendar days after the test date.

• Supporting documents are mandatory
• Approval is not guaranteed and depends on the test centre’s decision

IELTS Rescheduling (Test Date Transfer) Policy

• Test date transfers must be requested at least 5 weeks before the original test date.
• An applicable transfer fee is charged based on the test type.
• The new test date must be within 3 months of the original test date.
• Transfers requested within 5 weeks of the test date are not allowed, unless approved under exceptional circumstances.

IELTS Transfer Fees in India (2026)

From the Desk of Yocket

Selecting the right IELTS exam date can make a significant difference in your preparation. It's important to factor in your study time, academic commitments, and personal life. A carefully planned date allows you to approach the exam with confidence, without the stress of last-minute preparation.

Yocket Prep offers tools that are designed to guide you through your IELTS journey. With study plans, practice materials, IELTS sample papers and expert tips, we ensure you have the resources you need to approach the IELTS with the right mindset and be well-prepared for success.