IELTS Registration: How to Book the Exam in 2026?

Booking your IELTS test is an easy process. With over 2.5 million IELTS exams conducted each year globally, it’s clear how important this test is for education and career opportunities. To schedule your IELTS exam internationally, simply visit the official IELTS website of the authorised test partners. From there, you can choose your preferred test date, location, and whether you want to take the Academic or General Training version.

Make sure to plan ahead, as test slots can fill up quickly. Keep reading to find out how to secure your spot and take the first step towards achieving your academic and professional goals with confidence.

IELTS Exam Registration 2026 (Online)

IELTS offers flexible options for exam registration to suit different needs. For the paper-based test, you can choose from 48 fixed dates throughout the year, so you can pick a time that works best for you based on local demand. This makes it easier to fit the test into your schedule.

If you prefer the computer-based test, you'll have more flexibility and eligibility for the IELTS One Skill Retake feature. It’s available seven days a week, with up to three sessions per day. This frequent availability helps accommodate the high number of registrations and allows you to select a time that suits you best for optimal performance.

IELTS Exam Registration 2026 (Offline)

Here's how to register for the IELTS exam offline through international test providers:

IDP IELTS Registration Method - 1:

• Visit IDP Branch: Locate and visit your nearest international test centre or authorised head office.
• Use Registration Computer: Use the computer terminals at the centre to start your online IELTS registration. Here, you can select whether you want to take the Academic or General Training test and choose from the available test dates.
• Provide Passport Photocopy: Make sure to prepare a photocopy of the first and last pages of your passport, including any observation pages if applicable. This is important for your exam registration and serves as essential identification.
• Sign Terms & Conditions: Read through the Terms & Conditions document provided by IDP. After understanding the guidelines thoroughly, sign the document to acknowledge your agreement.
• Pay Registration Fee: Proceed to pay the IELTS exam registration fee at the international test centre. Payment options typically include cash or card, depending on the branch's facilities.
• Receive Acknowledgement Letter: Upon successful registration and payment, you will immediately receive an acknowledgement letter confirming your seat in the IELTS exam. This letter includes details such as your test date, time, and the location of the test centre.

IELTS Exam Registration Method - 2:

• Fill Out Application Form: Complete the application form available at the IDP office or the Input Node. Provide accurate personal details required for registration.
• Sign Terms & Conditions: Read and sign the Terms & Conditions document provided along with the application form. Ensure you understand the guidelines and obligations associated with taking the IELTS exam.
• Attach Identification Photocopy: Include a photocopy of your passport or national identity card's first and last pages, as well as any observation pages if applicable.
• Pay Registration Fees: Pay the IELTS registration fees as specified by IDP. Payment options typically include cash or card, depending on the facilities available at the branch or Input Node.
• Submit Application Form: Request the staff at the IDP branch or Input Node to submit your completed application form to the online registration system. They will provide you with an acknowledgement slip confirming your test booking and tentative seat reservation.

IELTS IDP Registration Details by Courier:

Download or Collect Application Form: Visit the official website of IDP, or go to your nearest IDP branch office or Input Node to download or collect the IELTS application form.

• Fill Out Application Form: Complete the application form thoroughly with accurate personal information required for registration. Ensure all sections are filled out correctly to avoid delays or complications.
• Sign Terms & Conditions: Read through the Terms & Conditions document provided with the application form. Sign the document after understanding and agreeing to the guidelines and policies.
• Attach Identification Photocopy: Include a photocopy of your passport or national identity card's first and last pages, as well as any observation pages if applicable. This serves as essential identification for the registration process, as both passports and valid national IDs are internationally accepted.
• Pay Registration Fees: Proceed to pay the IELTS registration fees as specified by IDP. Payment details and methods will be outlined in the application form or on the IDP website.
• Send Application via Courier: Package the completed application form along with all necessary documents (passport photocopy, payment proof) and the test fee. Send these items to the international test centre office via courier to the address provided on their official website or on the application form.

Ensure that all documents are accurate and submitted on time to complete your IELTS exam registration process offline through IDP.

Steps to Register for IELTS Examination 2026 (online)

Here is a detailed step-by-step guide to registering online for the IELTS Examination 2026:

• Visit the Official Website: Go to the official website of IDP IELTS, where you can initiate the online registration process.
• Create an Account: If you're a new user, create an account on the website. Existing users can log in with their credentials.
• Select Test Type: Choose between IELTS Academic or IELTS General Training, based on your intended purpose (e.g., academic admission or immigration).
• Choose Test Location and Date: Select your preferred test location from available centre options. Then, choose a suitable date and time slot for your exam. Ensure that the date aligns with your preparation timeline and test availability.
• Complete Registration Form: Fill out the online registration form with accurate personal information, including name, contact information, and passport details (passport number, expiry date).
• Upload Documents: Upload scanned copies of your identification document (passport or national ID) and any additional required documents, such as identification proofs of residency permits.
• Payment: Proceed to pay the IELTS exam fee using the available payment methods (credit/debit card, net banking, and secure digital wallets). Verify payment details carefully to avoid transaction errors.
• Confirmation: Once payment is processed successfully, you'll receive a confirmation email with details of your test booking, including the test centre address, date, and time.
• Prepare for the Exam: Begin preparing for the exam by accessing study materials and practice tests available on the official IELTS website. Familiarise yourself with the test format and practise under timed conditions to improve your performance.

Potential Challenges:

• Website Outages: In case of website outages or maintenance, try accessing the website during non-peak hours or use alternative browsers/devices.
• Payment Difficulties: If you face payment difficulties, ensure your internet connection is stable and retry after some time. Contact customer support for assistance if issues persist.

By following these steps properly and being prepared for potential challenges, you can successfully register for the IELTS Examination 2026 online.

Booking your IELTS test internationally is a key step for students looking to advance their academic or professional goals abroad. You’ll need to decide between IELTS Academic for university admissions and professional certifications or IELTS General Training for immigration and work-related purposes.

The booking process is easy: you can schedule your test online through the official IELTS website of the test partners. Just choose your preferred test dates and locations, upload necessary documents like passport copies, and make your payment securely.

At AECC, we understand the importance of a seamless IELTS registration process. Whether you're aiming for academic excellence or professional success abroad, our expert guidance ensures you navigate every step with confidence. Contact us today to streamline your registration process and unlock your international aspirations!