Planning to take the IELTS exam in Dubai? The first thing that may pop into your head might be – how much the test costs. We are here to guide you through. While prices don’t vary from centre to centre, the fees can move up and down, depending on your choices. With us, go through a detailed breakdown of IELTS cost in Dubai, along with any factors influencing the price and begin your journey on the right foot.
Let’s get started.
IELTS Exam Fees in Dubai
| IDP Education | British Council | |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS Academic & IELTS General Training – at the test centre (on Computer) | 1370 AED | 1,370 AED |
| IELTS Academic & IELTS General Training – at the test centre (on Paper) | 1270 AED | 1,370 AED |
| IELTS for UKVI Academic & IELTS for UKVI General Training – at the test centre (on Computer) | 1450 AED | 1,450 AED |
| IELTS for UKVI Academic & IELTS for UKVI General Training – at the test centre (on Paper) | 1375 AED | 1,450 AED |
| IELTS Life Skills Test | 710 AED | 700 AED |
Let’s take a detailed look at the factors that influence the cost.
IDP Education vs. British Council
The British Council and IDP Education organise and conduct the IELTS exam in Dubai. Both are official co-owners of the IELTS exam and offer the same IELTS test in content, format, scoring, and recognition. The only difference is in terms of test centres, dates and availability. So, choose either provider based on which one offers the most convenient location and test date for your needs.
On Computer vs. On Paper
Depending on the exam mode you choose, the price will vary.
On Computer
- You complete the Listening, Reading, and Writing sections using a computer at the test centre.
- The Speaking test is conducted face-to-face by an examiner.
- You receive the results within 3-5 days.
On Paper
- You complete the Listening, Reading, and Writing sections by hand on paper.
- You get the results within 13 days of the exam.
- An examiner conducts the Speaking test in person.
Make sure to consider whether you are comfortable writing with hand or typing and if there are any time constraints and choose accordingly.
IELTS vs IELTS for UKVI
IELTS
- The standard test is accepted by universities, employers and immigration authorities worldwide for study, work and migration purposes.
IELTS for UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration)
- IELTS for UKVI is a version you require to migrate specifically to the UK or secure a visa. It involves some additional procedures and protocols to meet UK visa requirements.
Even though they do serve different purposes, the test content, format, and difficulty level are the same.
IELTS Life Skills Test
The IELTS life skills test is designed to prove your English speaking and listening skills at Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) levels A1 (Applying for a UK visa for family, spouse, or partner) or B1 (British Citizenship). Used typically for UK visa/immigration purposes, it only includes the Speaking and Listening sections; there’s no Writing and Reading section. This test demonstrates your basic ability to communicate in English.
Make sure to closely consider all factors and make a choice that best suits your requirements.
British Council Premium Packages
The British Council also offers special packages to improve your test experience. It covers –
- Comprehensive test preparation support
- Luxury venue
- Complimentary food and beverages
- A dedicated customer service representative
| IELTS from British Council – Premium (on paper) | 1,770 AED |
| IELTS from British Council – Premium (on computer) | 1,910 AED |
IELTS Extra Service Charges
Other than the above mentioned charges, you might have to pay some additional fees based on the services that you opt for –
| Test Date Transfer (Change your test date after booking) | 200–300 AED (Varies by center) |
| Test Cancellation | You get a partial refund, minus the administration fees. (But only if you cancel within a minimum required timeframe – usually 5 weeks before the test date). |
| Enquiry on Results (EOR) If you are dissatisfied with your test results, you can go for a re-check. | 400–600 AED, this amount is refunded if your score improves. |
| Additional Test Report Forms (TRFs) If you need extra copies of your result. |
Costs around 40–70 AED per copy. |
| One Skill Retake (OSR) If you wish to retake only one section of the IELTS test. |
400–500 AED |
How to Book Your IELTS Test in Dubai?
- Choose your test type – IELTS academic, General Training, for UKVI or Life Skills.
- Select the suitable test format – On computer or on paper.
- Book through an official provider – IDP Education or British Council.
- Prepare the required documents – valid identification documents, such as a Passport or Emirates ID.
- Choose a test date and centre and make your booking.
Prepare Right and Achieve the Desired Score in One Go!
The IELTS test is expensive; no one would want to pay the test fees more than once. With our expert IELTS coaching in Dubai, secure the desired score in the first attempt and get the best value for the money you spend. Irrespective of your current proficiency level, we help you climb the linguistic ladder and help you reach a position from where you can take the IELTS test with ease and confidence. Besides test preparation, we guide you through all the specifics and help you make optimum choices at each level. To know more about the IELTS exam in Dubai or if you need any clarification regarding the exam fees, contact us at EnglishWise AE.
