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, which test type to choose, 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.
There is only one test format now: computer
From 22 March 2026, both IDP and the British Council deliver IELTS in Korea on computer only. Every test is computer-delivered IELTS (CD IELTS), so there is no format to choose at registration.
| Category | Computer-delivered (CD IELTS) |
|---|---|
| Test dates | Very frequent (almost weekly) |
| Results | 1–5 days |
| Listening, Reading, Writing | On screen, typed on a keyboard |
| Speaking | 1:1 with an examiner, face to face (unchanged) |
| Difficulty & score recognition | Same as before |
Speaking is the one part that has not changed. You still sit down with an examiner, and you are still given paper and a pencil for your Part 2 preparation minute. The other three sections all happen on screen.
If this is your first time taking the test on screen, read the computer-delivered IELTS guide (Korean) first — it walks through the screen layout of each section and where marks get lost.
How much does the test cost?
- Standard IELTS (Academic / General): 347,000 KRW
- IELTS for UKVI: 389,000 KRW
- IELTS Life Skills (A1 / B1): 312,000 KRW
- One Skill Retake (Korean) (one section only): 218,610 KRW (UKVI 245,070 KRW)
IDP and the British Council charge the same. Fees can change with the exchange rate, so check the amount on the booking screen before you pay. For the refund or date-change fee on your own dates, use the IELTS fee and refund calculator.
Test locations (Korea)
IDP runs the test at 10 centres in Seoul, Incheon, Daejeon, Daegu and Busan, and the British Council at 7 centres in Seoul, Daejeon, Daegu and Busan (September 2026). IELTS for UKVI is in Seoul only at both. Tests are held at the computer-delivered test centres designated by each organisation.
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 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?
- Available 1–5 days after your test date
- 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.
- The Complete Guide to IELTS Band Scores
- How to build an IELTS study plan
- IELTS score requirements by purpose
Sources Checked 21 October 2026. IDP Korea test fees · Computer-only notice · Getting your results (IELTS)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still take IELTS on paper?
No. From 22 March 2026 both IDP and the British Council run IELTS in Korea on computer only, and every test is computer-delivered IELTS. Question types, marking criteria and score recognition are unchanged, and Speaking is still conducted face to face with an examiner.
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 (Academic/General) costs 347,000 KRW, UKVI 389,000 KRW, and Life Skills 312,000 KRW. The fees are the same at IDP and the British Council, but they can change with the exchange rate, so check the official site again just before you book.
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?
Results are usually available online 1–5 days after your test date, and a Test Report Form (TRF) is issued.