IELTS test dates, fees and locations

Before you book or travel to a British Council IELTS test centre, you’ll need to have the following items ready:

1. A valid identification document (identity card or passport). Your ID must be valid at the time of booking and on the test day. If you're under 18, your parents will need to register online on your behalf. IELTS is not recommended for anyone under 16.
2. A credit/debit card to pay through our online booking system. You can also pay through Paypal or, if you prefer to pay in installments, you can use Klarna without added interest.

Important registration information for IELTS on paper

If you’re not officially a resident in Germany, you will not be able to sit an IELTS on paper test. However, you can still take the test on computer, so please do choose that option.

Already booked an IELTS on Paper test and you do not hold German nationality?

You will need to provide proof of residence by email at least three days before your test date unless you are a passport holder of an EU/EEA/Switzerland country. Passport holders from these countries are entitled to freedom of movement within the European Union and are not required to provide proof of residency.

Acceptable proof of residence includes:

• Local Residence Permit 
• A valid Student Visa (stating purpose, length of visa, and expiry date) stamped in the passport.
• A valid Work Permit (2 documents):

- Visa (stating status and expiry) stamped in the passport.

- Work Permit card (showing expiry date).

• If you are taking IELTS in a British Council test centre, you can choose your Speaking test slot whether you take IELTS on computer or on paper.
• If you take IELTS Online, your Speaking test will usually be scheduled before your Listening, Reading and Writing. It could be on the same or a different day.

Your Listening, Reading and Writing sections of the test will be completed on the same day with no break in between.

Our IELTS test fee includes exclusive preparation materials, free practice tests and much more. 

Our carefully assorted preparation resources provide you with comprehensive study materials, tips and strategies to help you succeed. Additionally, you will have access to free practice tests to help you assess your progress and familiarise yourself with the test format.

After you have booked your test, we will confirm the following information by email:

• the start time of your test 
• where you will take your test (including testing centre address)
• your Speaking test date and time
• your access to IELTS Ready Premium. 

Download and read our Information for Candidates to learn everything you need to know about the format, the different exam components and test results.

You can also find more information about the test format in the section 'Which test should I take?'.

If you are an institution or language school and would like your students to take the test at your premises (bulk registration), please complete this form.