Where are the IELTS test centres in Bangalore?
IDP runs two IELTS test centres in Bangalore, and both are listed on IDP India's UKVI centre page as accessible, UKVI-approved, and offering IELTS on Computer and One Skill Retake.
| IDP centre | Address | Tests offered |
|---|---|---|
| IDP St. Marks Road | 8, Excellency Building, Unit 206, 2nd Floor, Papanna Street, off St. Mark's Road, Bangalore | IELTS on Computer, IELTS for UKVI, One Skill Retake |
| IDP Whitefield | Times Point, 1st Floor, above Axis Bank, No. 30, Doddanekkundi Industrial Estate, Graphite India Main Road, KEB Colony, Hoodi, Bangalore | IELTS on Computer, IELTS for UKVI, One Skill Retake |
The IELTS.org centre finder also lists an off-site venue in Bangalore, Jain College in Basavanagudi, for some paper-based IELTS for UKVI sessions. IDP says IELTS on paper will no longer be offered from mid-2026, and IELTS Writing on Paper takes its place in selected locations. Check the format and venue shown when you book a date.
Does the British Council in Bangalore still conduct IELTS?
The British Council in Bangalore no longer conducts IELTS tests. The British Council India IELTS page says IDP became the sole distributor of IELTS testing in India from 25 July 2021, and it sends test bookings to IDP. The British Council still co-owns IELTS and offers IELTS preparation courses, both in class and online.
So if you search for "British Council Bangalore" to book an IELTS test, you will book with IDP. If you want a preparation course, the British Council is one option, and our IELTS and GRE coaching guide explains how to choose any course.
How much is the IELTS fee in India?
The IELTS fee in India is ₹19,000 for IELTS Academic or General Training, whether you take IELTS on Computer or IELTS Writing on Paper. These are the figures on IDP India's fee page as of October 2026, and the fee is the same in every Indian city, including Bangalore.
| Test | Fee | Transfer (reschedule) fee |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS on Computer (Academic or General Training) | ₹19,000 | ₹4,750 |
| IELTS Writing on Paper | ₹19,000 | ₹4,750 |
| IELTS on Computer for UKVI | ₹19,250 | ₹4,850 |
| IELTS Life Skills (A1 and B1) | ₹18,000 | ₹4,500 |
| One Skill Retake | ₹12,650 | ₹3,200 |
An Enquiry on Results, which is a request to have your test re-marked, costs ₹14,250 (₹14,400 for UKVI). IDP's cancellation refunds depend on how many days before the test you cancel, and late cancellations may get no refund, so read the current rules on the fee page before you book.
IELTS on Computer or IELTS Writing on Paper: which should you choose?
IELTS on Computer and IELTS Writing on Paper cost the same and give results in the same time, so the choice comes down to how you like to write. In IELTS Writing on Paper, you take Listening and Reading on a computer and handwrite the Writing section. IDP says results for both are typically ready in 1 to 2 days.
- Choose computer if you type quickly and like to edit your essays as you go.
- Choose Writing on Paper if you write faster by hand or have practised essays on paper.
- One Skill Retake lets you retake just one section, such as Writing, if you narrowly miss a band. Both Bangalore centres offer it.
Do you need IELTS for UKVI for a UK student visa?
IELTS for UKVI is needed for a UK Student visa mainly if your course is below degree level, such as a foundation or pre-sessional course. GOV.UK says you need a Secure English Language Test (SELT) at CEFR level B1 for those courses. For degree-level study, your university can assess your English itself at CEFR B2, and many accept regular IELTS Academic.
Check your offer letter or your university's English page before you book, because the UKVI test costs ₹250 more. Both IDP centres in Bangalore are UKVI-approved. Our UK student visa from Bangalore guide covers the rest of the visa.
Booking IELTS in Bangalore: what students in Karnataka should know
- 1
Pick your test and module. Choose IELTS on Computer, Writing on Paper, UKVI or Life Skills, then Academic or General Training. IDP warns you to choose the module carefully.
- 2
Pick your Bangalore centre and date. Choose St. Marks Road or Whitefield on IDP's Bangalore page, then a date and session.
- 3
Upload your passport. IDP asks for a clear, scanned colour copy of your passport. Keep that same passport ready for test day.
- 4
Pay the fee online. You can also book in person at an IDP branch with a passport photocopy and a signed declaration.
- 5
Look out for IDP's acknowledgement of your booking. If you do not choose a speaking slot in time, IDP allocates one for you.
- From elsewhere in Karnataka: IDP also has an office in Mangaluru, near Navabharath Circle. Students in coastal Karnataka can check IDP's Mangalore page for test dates there.
- Getting there: St. Mark's Road is central, and Whitefield (Hoodi) suits students in east Bangalore. Allow for weekday traffic and arrive early.
- Free counselling in Hebbal: Falcon Nova does not run IELTS classes, but our Hebbal office can tell you which score each university on your shortlist needs. See our Bangalore office page.
Not sure what IELTS score your universities need? Book a free counselling session and we will check the English requirement for every course on your shortlist before you book.
What to do next
Find the IELTS score your target courses ask for, then book a date that leaves time for a One Skill Retake before your application deadline. If IELTS is not your only option, compare PTE and TOEFL in our PTE, TOEFL, GRE and GMAT test centres guide.
Book Your IELTS With Your Target Score in Mind
Knowing the exact score each university needs puts you ahead before test day. Falcon Nova Consultants has helped hundreds of Indian students plan their applications. Book your free counselling session and we will confirm the English requirement for every course you are considering, help you pick the right IELTS test, and time it around your deadlines.
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