How to Register for the IELTS Test & Full Cost Breakdown
With IELTS, many people get stuck at the "registration" stage just as much as with the test itself. You're probably confused about where to apply, whether to take it on computer or paper, and how much it costs. This single article will lay it all out clearly for you.
Where do I register for IELTS?
In Korea, you can register for IELTS through two official organizations:
- British Council
- IDP IELTS
Both organizations administer the same test, and your scores are recognized identically. The only difference is the available test dates and locations, so check both official websites and register wherever best fits your schedule.
First, choose your test type (Academic vs General)
- Academic — for study abroad purposes, such as university and graduate school
- General Training — for immigration and employment purposes
The two tests have different Writing and Reading sections. For a detailed breakdown of the differences, see the Academic vs General guide. If your goal is a UK visa or immigration, you must select IELTS for UKVI separately.
Computer-based vs Paper-based: what's the difference?
| Category | Computer-based (CD IELTS) | Paper-based (Paper) |
|---|---|---|
| Test dates | Very frequent (almost weekly) | 2–4 times per month |
| Results | 3–5 days | About 13 days |
| Answering | Keyboard typing | Handwriting |
| Speaking | 1:1 with examiner (same) | 1:1 with examiner (same) |
| Difficulty & score recognition | Completely identical | Completely identical |
The key point is that the difficulty and score recognition are exactly the same. Choose the computer-based test if you need your results quickly or prefer typing, and the paper-based test if you're more comfortable writing by hand. Many test takers prefer the computer-based test because it counts your Writing word count automatically and makes editing easier, but if you're comfortable writing by hand, the paper-based test puts you at no disadvantage at all.
How much does the test cost?
- Standard IELTS (Academic / General): roughly 290,000–310,000 KRW
- IELTS for UKVI: higher than that (roughly 350,000 KRW or more)
⚠️ Test fees may vary by organization and over time. Always check the latest pricing on the official website before registering.
Test locations (Korea)
You can take the test in Seoul (multiple venues) as well as major cities including Busan, Daegu, Daejeon, and Gwangju. The computer-based test is held at designated centers.
ID — you need a passport
- A valid passport is required to take the IELTS.
- The ID you enter when registering must match the ID you bring on test day.
- The English spelling of your name on your passport must exactly match your registration details.
Check your passport's expiration date and the English spelling of your name in advance. If your name doesn't match, you may be refused entry to the test on test day.
Registration process (step by step)
- Choose your registration organization (British Council or IDP)
- Choose your test type (Academic / General / UKVI)
- Choose your test format (computer / paper)
- Choose your date and location
- Enter your personal and passport information
- Make payment
- Receive your registration confirmation email
Popular dates and locations fill up quickly. We recommend registering at least 2–4 weeks in advance.
When and how do I get my results?
- Computer-based test: available after 3–5 days / Paper-based test: after about 13 days
- You check your scores online and receive your Test Report Form (TRF)
- The method for sending scores to study-abroad or immigration organizations varies by organization, so check in advance
Next steps
Once you've registered, it's time to set your target score and study plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a score difference between the computer-based and paper-based IELTS test?
No. The two formats are completely identical in question types, scoring criteria, and score recognition. The only differences are how quickly results are released (computer: 3–5 days, paper: about 13 days) and how you write your answers (typing vs handwriting).
How far in advance should I register for the test?
Popular dates and locations fill up quickly, so we recommend registering at least 2–4 weeks in advance. The computer-based test runs frequently, so it offers comparatively more flexibility.
How much does the IELTS test cost?
Standard IELTS costs roughly 290,000–310,000 KRW, and UKVI costs more than that. Prices change frequently, so check the latest pricing on the official website when you register.
What ID do I need?
You need a valid passport, and the ID you enter when registering must match the ID you bring on test day. Pay close attention to the English spelling of your name on your passport.
When do I get my scores?
The computer-based test results are available after 3–5 days and the paper-based test after about 13 days, viewable online, and a Test Report Form (TRF) is issued.