How to postpone IELTS exam is a common question for candidates facing unexpected events. Whether it’s due to illness, travel, or academic stress, you can easily postpone or reschedule your test date by following a few steps. The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is conducted in India by two official bodies: IDP Education and the British Council (although currently, IDP manages all IELTS tests in India after taking over the British Council’s operations). The test is available in 75 cities across India through multiple test centres. The IELTS exam assesses four English skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. This exam lasts around 2 hours and 45 minutes. If you need to change your test date, both rescheduling and cancellation options are available on the official websites of the IELTS exam. You need to follow some specific rules, deadlines, and fees to postpone your IELTS exam. This article covers the full process, timelines, and policies for postponing or rescheduling IELTS exam smoothly.
What is Meant by How to Postpone IELTS Exam?
If you’re unable to appear for your scheduled IELTS test, you might be wondering how to postpone IELTS exam without losing your registration fee. Postponing the IELTS exam means rescheduling your test date due to valid reasons such as illness, travel issues, or personal emergencies. The IELTS test, conducted by IDP and the British Council across multiple centres in India, allows candidates to request a postponement by following specific guidelines.
Policies and Procedures for How to Postpone IELTS Exam in India
Before you plan how to postpone IELTS exam, it’s important to understand the official policies and procedures. If you’re unable to take the test on your scheduled date, IDP India gives you the option to reschedule, provided you follow their clearly defined timelines and guidelines. Knowing these rules in advance can save you from unnecessary stress, extra fees, or even losing your exam slot. These procedures are in place to ensure fairness and proper test management. Whether you need to postpone due to health issues or other valid reasons, you must apply within the permitted window and submit proper documents if required. Here, we have explained to you the official policies and procedures as per IDP:
- You must apply to postpone the IELTS exam at least 15 days before the test date.
- If you reschedule 15 to 34 days before the exam, you must pay a transfer fee.
- If you request to postpone the exam within 14 days, you must provide valid medical or serious emergency documentation.
- If approved, the new test date must fall within 3 months of the original test date.
- The rescheduling request must be submitted online via the official IDP IELTS portal.
- You can only reschedule once per booking.
- For medical or emergency cases, supporting documents must be submitted within 5 days of the original test date.
How To Postpone IELTS Exam Online
There are many students who ask this question ‘’how can we postpone IELTS exam.’’ In this section, we will guide you on how to postpone IELTS exam online. You can change your IELTS test date, but only if you apply before the deadline set by your test provider. If you’re eligible, you can do it by following the steps mentioned below:
- Visit your test provider’s website (IDP or British Council).
- Log in using your registered email and password.
- Click on your upcoming test booking.
- Select the Transfer or Reschedule option.
- Choose a new date from available test slots.
- Upload any required document if needed.
- Pay the rescheduling fee online.
- Receive confirmation on your registered email.
How To Postpone IELTS Exam With IDP
You’ve been preparing for weeks, but something unexpected comes up, such as a family emergency, travel issues, or just a clash with another important event. In such situations, IDP gives you the option to postpone your IELTS test.
You can simply log in to your Candidate Login on the IDP IELTS India website and submit a test date transfer request at least 9 days before your scheduled test. Fill out the test date transfer & cancellation form, upload any required documents, and select your new preferred date based on availability.
If you’re taking the IELTS for UKVI or Life Skills, make sure to send your request 14 days in advance. Keep in mind there’s a 25% administrative fee, and you can only reschedule once. In case something serious comes up after the deadline, like a medical issue or a legal matter, you can still request a reschedule under exceptional circumstances with supporting documents such as a medical certificate or any official proof related to your situation. Once you submit those, the IDP team will go through your request and let you know if they can offer a refund or help you book a new test date.
How To Postpone IELTS Exam with British Council
If you’re wondering how to postpone IELTS exam with the British Council, the process is pretty straightforward. Log in to your Test Taker Portal and request a new date at least five weeks before your scheduled test to avoid extra charges. You can pick a new date within three months of your original test day. If you apply later than that, you’ll need to pay an admin fee (usually around 25% of your test fee). For serious last-minute issues like a medical emergency or legal situation, you can still request a reschedule by submitting valid proof within five working days after your test date. The British Council team will review your case and let you know whether you’re eligible for a refund or a new date.
How to Postpone IELTS Exam Due to Emergency, Valid Reasons and Required Documents
Sometimes, unexpected emergencies stop you from appearing for the exam, even at the last moment. In such cases, if you’re wondering how to postpone IELTS exam under genuine circumstances, IDP allows you to reschedule, but only if you provide valid proof. Here are the situations that qualify as emergencies and the types of documents you need to submit for your request to be accepted.
Valid Emergency Reasons for IELTS Rescheduling:
- Sudden death of a close family member.
- A medical emergency or illness on the exam day before leaving home.
- Being a victim of a crime on the way to the test center.
- Suffering a road accident en route to the test venue.
- Loss of passport while traveling to the exam center.
- Travel disruption due to political protests, riots, or public violence.
Documents Required as Proof:
- A doctor’s certificate with a valid registration number (in case of illness).
- Hospital admission and discharge summary if hospitalization occurred.
- A police FIR in case of an accident, crime, or serious mishap.
- A death certificate with an official seal and the registrar’s number (for bereavement).
- An official letter from the passport office stating passport details and the estimated return date (in case of lost passport).
IELTS Rescheduling Fees and Refund Policy
To understand how to postpone IELTS exam, you can simply visit the official IDP IELTS website and request a reschedule through your account. IDP has clear policies in place for both rescheduling and refunds, so if you meet the deadlines and follow the guidelines, you won’t lose your money. You can reschedule your test by paying a small fee or, in certain cases, by submitting valid documents. Just make sure to check the timelines, as the rules change depending on how close your exam date is. Check below the rescheduling fees and refund policy:
- 14–34 days before the exam – You can reschedule by paying a transfer fee.
- Within 14 days – Rescheduling is allowed only with valid medical or emergency proof.
- Within 7 days – Rescheduling is not allowed unless it’s a serious medical emergency.
- Cancellation – You may get a 75% refund if done within the allowed period.
- After rescheduling – Download your updated IELTS admit card from the IDP portal.
Important Guidelines on How to Postpone IELTS Exam
Before you take any steps on how to postpone IELTS exam, make sure you’re aware of a few important guidelines. Rescheduling is usually allowed only once, so it’s important to choose your new date carefully and keep all your updated documents ready. Following these tips will help you avoid last-minute issues and make the process smooth and stress-free.
- Choose your new exam date wisely, as multiple reschedules may not be allowed.
- Always save or print your updated confirmation email after rescheduling.
- If you’re attending a coaching or training centre, inform them about your new test date.
- Ensure your passport and ID documents are valid on the new exam date.
- Check that the new test location and time are suitable and reachable for you.
Conclusion
Postponing your IELTS exam may feel stressful at first, but with the right information and timely action, the process becomes manageable and simple. You can reschedule your IELTS exam due to emergencies. Knowing how to postpone IELTS exam through official IELTS websites like IDP or the British Council can help you avoid unnecessary fees or losing your test slot. Always follow the official timelines, keep your documents ready, and double-check your new test details once confirmed. Remember, this isn’t a setback, it’s a chance to better prepare and give your best on exam day.
How to Postpone IELTS Exam FAQs
Can I reschedule my IELTS test for free?
Yes, you can reschedule your IELTS test for free if you apply more than 34 days before your original test date. In this case, IDP allows you to change your exam date without any additional charges. However, if you reschedule within 15 to 34 days, a transfer fee will apply.
How many days before we can postpone IELTS exam?
You need to apply at least 14–15 days before your original exam date, depending on the test provider.
How much does it cost to reschedule IELTS exam?
The rescheduling fee for IELTS through IDP is ₹4,500. If you request a change more than 34 days in advance, you may avoid this fee. Charges may vary slightly for UKVI and Life Skills tests. You can check the official website of IDP for accurate fees.
Is documentation required to postpone IELTS?
Yes, if you're booking changes within 14 days of the test, valid proof is mandatory.
