How to Reschedule or Cancel Your IELTS Test: A Guide to Policies and Fees (2025)

You’ve booked your IELTS test, but something has come up. Whether you need to push your test date back or cancel it altogether, it’s crucial to understand the official procedures and potential costs involved. The policies for making changes are strict and time-sensitive, so acting quickly can save you both money and stress.

This guide breaks down the essential rules for rescheduling and canceling your IELTS test, including the fees you can expect.

Important Disclaimer: The policies described below are based on general guidelines from major IELTS providers like the British Council and IDP. However, individual test centers may have slightly different rules and fees. Always check the specific terms and conditions of the test center where you registered.

Rescheduling Your IELTS Test

If you need to change your test date, your options depend almost entirely on how much notice you provide.

1. If You Reschedule More Than Five Weeks Before the Test Date:

This is the ideal scenario. Most test centers will allow you to move your test date if you submit a request more than five weeks in advance. However, this service is not free. You will typically be required to pay an administrative or transfer fee, which is often around 25% of the original test fee.

• How to Proceed: Log in to the official IELTS test-taker portal where you registered. You should find an option to request a test date transfer. Alternatively, contact your test center directly via email or phone to initiate the process.

2. If You Reschedule Less Than Five Weeks Before the Test Date:

Unfortunately, rescheduling is generally not permitted within the five-week window leading up to your test. Your original test fee will be forfeited, and you will need to book and pay for a new test. The only exception is in cases of serious, unforeseen circumstances.

Canceling Your IELTS Test and Requesting a Refund

If you no longer need to take the test, you can request a cancellation. Similar to rescheduling, your eligibility for a refund is determined by your timing.

1. If You Cancel More Than Five Weeks Before the Test Date:

You are typically eligible for a partial refund. Test centers will process your cancellation and refund approximately 75% of the test fee. The remaining 25% is retained as an administrative charge.

• How to Proceed: Use the IELTS test-taker portal or contact your center directly to formally request a cancellation. Ensure you follow their exact procedure to be eligible for the refund.

2. If You Cancel Less Than Five Weeks Before the Test Date:

If you cancel within this period, you will not receive a refund. Your test fee will be forfeited.

Special Circumstances: Exceptions to the Rules

IELTS providers make exceptions for candidates who miss their test or need to make last-minute changes due to exceptional circumstances beyond their control. These typically include:

• Serious Medical Conditions: A severe illness or injury that prevents you from attending the test (e.g., hospitalization). A common cold is not considered a valid reason.

• Bereavement: The loss of a close family member.

• Hardship or Trauma: An event like being a victim of a crime or a traffic accident.

• Military Service: Being called for mandatory military duty.

Crucial Requirement: You Must Provide Proof.

To be considered for an exception, you must submit an official request to your test center along with supporting documentation (e.g., a detailed medical certificate from a doctor, a death certificate, or a police report). This evidence must be submitted within five working days of the original test date.

If your request is approved, the test center may offer you a full refund (minus a small administrative fee) or a free transfer to a new test date.

Summary of Policies

Final Advice

1. Confirm Before You Book: The best way to avoid fees is to be certain of your availability before you register.

2. Act Fast: If your plans change, contact your test center immediately. The five-week deadline is critical.

3. Read the Fine Print: Always read the terms and conditions provided by your specific test center during registration. They are the ultimate authority on your booking.