IELTS exam booking in Sri Lanka is a straightforward process once you understand the required steps. Whether you need the IELTS Academic or IELTS General Training exam, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from selecting a test center and picking a suitable date to paying your exam fee and uploading the necessary documents. Additionally, we’ll explore the different test formats (computer-delivered vs. paper-based), the cost structure, required identification, booking timelines, and official booking portals. Let’s get you fully prepared to book and take your IELTS exam with confidence!
Step-by-Step Guide to Booking IELTS Online in Sri Lanka
01. Go to an Official IELTS Exam Booking Portal
Begin your booking through one of the official IELTS test providers in Sri Lanka:
- British Council Sri Lanka
- IDP Sri Lanka
These platforms allow you to select your city, test type, and format in a secure and user-friendly environment.
02. Select Your Test Type
Depending on your purpose, choose from:
- Academic (for university admission)
- General Training (for migration, employment, or non-academic training)
- IELTS for UKVI (for UK Visa purposes)
- IELTS Life Skills A1/B1 (for UK family or spouse visas)
Ensure you select the correct version as this cannot be changed easily after registration.
03. Choose Paper-Based or Computer-Delivered
- IDP Sri Lanka offers mostly computer-based tests and has stopped offering paper-based exams after December 2024.
- British Council still offers some paper-based test dates, but these are limited. Consider factors like typing ability, result turnaround time, and test center availability when making your choice.
04. Pick Your Test Center and Location
Test centers are available in several cities, including:
- Colombo
- Kandy
- Jaffna
- Galle
- Matara
- Negombo
- Kurunegala
- Batticaloa
- Malabe
- Nugegoda
- Gampaha
Choose the location that is most convenient for your travel and schedule. Ensure the center offers your desired test format.
05. Select a Test Date and Session
Once you’ve selected the city and test center, check the available dates. Computer-delivered exams typically have more frequent sessions (sometimes daily), while paper-based tests are less frequent. Choose your preferred test date and time. You may also be able to select your Speaking test slot when booking online.
06. Fill in the Application Details
Provide your personal details exactly as they appear in your passport. You will need to enter your full name, date of birth, nationality, identification details, contact number, email address, and reason for taking IELTS. Double-check your information before proceeding.
07. Upload Required Documents
You will be prompted to upload a scanned copy of the bio-data page of your valid passport (color scan or photo). The file must be clear, in color, and show all passport details. If you’re under 18, download and submit the parental consent form provided on the booking site.
08. Review and Confirm Details
Review your registration summary to ensure your test type, center, format, and date are correct. Any errors may result in additional fees or delays.
09. Pay the Exam Fee
Proceed to payment. IELTS fees in Sri Lanka are generally between LKR 70,000 to 78,500 depending on the test type:
- Online card payments (Visa/MasterCard)
- Bank transfer (deposit to official account and upload receipt)
- In-person payment (only available at IDP Colombo office) Payment must be completed within 3–5 days to confirm your slot.
10. Receive Confirmation
Once payment is confirmed, you will receive an email and SMS confirmation. You can also log into your candidate portal to view your registration status, test timetable, and further updates.
IELTS Test Centers in Sri Lanka and How to Choose One
- Major Centers: Colombo (multiple venues), Kandy, Jaffna, Galle, Matara, Batticaloa, and more
- Factors to Consider:
- Proximity to your home or accommodation
- Availability of computer-delivered vs. paper-based formats
- Accessibility and travel convenience
- Special accommodations (if required)
- Proximity to your home or accommodation
If you live in a rural area, try to book your test in advance as nearby test centers may have fewer available dates.
Finding IELTS Test Dates and Sessions
- Where to Check:
- British Council Date Finder
- IDP Test Calendar
- British Council Date Finder
- Frequency:
- Computer-based tests: Offered several times a week
- Paper-based tests: Usually 2–3 times a month
- Computer-based tests: Offered several times a week
Tip: Booking early gives you more choices, especially during high-demand periods such as university admission deadlines or visa windows.
IELTS Exam Fees in Sri Lanka
Test Type | Fee (LKR) |
|---|---|
Academic / General (in-centre) | 70,500 |
Academic Online (at home) | 70,000 |
UKVI (Academic/General) | 78,000–78,500 |
IELTS Life Skills (A1 or B1) | 62,500 |
Fees include taxes and access to some free prep materials. Always verify the latest fee before finalizing your booking.
Accepted Payment Methods
- Online Card Payment: Quickest method; processed instantly.
- Bank Transfer:
- Transfer funds to the official account
- Include reference (name/passport number)
- Upload payment proof to the booking portal
- Transfer funds to the official account
- In-Person Payment: Available only at IDP’s Colombo office
- Deadline: Complete your payment within 3–5 working days of registration to avoid cancellation
Always keep a copy of your receipt or confirmation email for future reference.
Documents Required
To register and take the IELTS, you need the following:
- Valid Passport (required on test day)
- Scanned Copy of Passport ID Page
- Parental Consent Form (for candidates under 18)
- Payment Receipt (for offline methods)
Other forms of identification like national ID or driver’s license are not accepted.
Official IELTS Booking Links
Book only via the official channels:
Avoid third-party sites or agents unless you are 100% sure they are authorized by the test providers.
Computer-Delivered vs. Paper-Based IELTS
| Feature | Computer-Delivered | Paper-Based |
| Availability | Widely available | Limited availability |
| Results Time | 1–5 days | 13 days |
| Writing Format | Typed | Handwritten |
| Speaking Test Timing | Same or next day | Often on a different day |
| Flexibility | More dates and time slots | Limited |
Why choose Computer Delivered?
- Faster results
- More frequent test sessions
- Easier for those comfortable typing
Why choose Paper Based?
- Preferred by those more comfortable writing by hand
- May be easier for candidates unfamiliar with computers
Final Tips for Test Day
- Bring the same passport you used for registration. No other ID is accepted.
- Arrive early to avoid missing check-in or the start of your test.
- Read the instructions sent to your email and familiarize yourself with the venue.
- Print your confirmation email or have it ready on your phone.
- Pack essentials: passport, stationery (for paper-based), water bottle (if allowed)
- If you’re unwell on test day, contact your test center immediately to discuss rescheduling or refund policies.
Preparation Resources
- Use free prep materials from your test provider
- Consider subscribing to official IELTS practice platforms
- Practice under timed conditions in your chosen format
Summary
Booking the IELTS exam in Sri Lanka has never been easier thanks to streamlined online systems and multiple test locations. By following this step-by-step guide, you can confidently register for your exam, choose the format that suits you best, and prepare efficiently for success. Whether you are applying for university, migrating abroad, or meeting work-related English requirements, completing your IELTS booking is the first major step.
Need help preparing? Explore our IELTS online coaching options today!
Good luck with your test preparation—and may your IELTS journey lead to new global opportunities! 🚀