How to Apply for IELTS in Pakistan: A Step-by-Step Guide
The IELTS test, or International English Language Testing System, is a standardized exam offered in Pakistan to assess your English proficiency. It’s a crucial step for students aiming to study abroad at universities requiring English language skills. The test is also valued by professionals seeking to work in English-speaking countries.
Want to learn more about the IELTS exam itself? Check out our blog post “What is the IELTS Exam?” for a detailed breakdown.
Here’s step-by-step guide for how to apply for the IELTS in Pakistan
1. Choose Your IELTS Test Type
Before anything else, determine which version of the IELTS aligns with your goals. The Academic IELTS is designed for those pursuing higher education or professional registration where English fluency is a requirement. The General Training IELTS is for individuals seeking migration or non-academic training in English-speaking countries. Finally, the UKVI IELTS has specific security measures and is used for UK visa applications.
2. Find a Test Center and Date
Pakistan has two main IELTS partners: AEO Pakistan and the British Council. Both have test centers in major cities like Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad. Visit their websites to find a convenient location and check available test dates. Choose your preferred date well in advance as test spots can fill up quickly.
Fee Changes: These fees are subject to change. Always confirm the latest prices on the official test provider websites:
| Test type | Location | Fee – Effective from 1 Oct 2023 | Book | |
| IELTS Academic and General Training – in centre – on paper | Peshawar, Abbottabad, Quetta, Mirpur | PKR 55,000 | Book Now | |
| IELTS Academic and General Training – in centre – on paper (includes 13% general sales tax levied by the provincial government) | Karachi, Hyderabad | PKR 62,150 | Book Now | |
| IELTS Academic and General Training – in centre – on paper (includes 16% general sales tax levied by the provincial government) | Jhelum, Gujrat, Islamabad, Bahawalpur, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Lahore, Sargodha, Sialkot, Mandi Bahauddin, Multan & Sahiwal | PKR 63,800 | Book Now | |
| IELTS Academic and General Training – in centre – on computer | Karachi and Sukkur | PKR 55,900 | Book Now | |
| IELTS Academic and General Training – in centre – on computer | Lahore, Islamabad, Multan, and Faisalabad | PKR 57,400 | Book Now | |
| IELTS Academic and General Training – in centre – on computer | Peshawar | PKR 55,000 | Book Now | |
| IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration – in centre – on paper (Academic and General Training) | Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, Peshawar, Multan & Faisalabad | PKR 55,000 | Book Now | |
| IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration – in centre – on computer (Academic and General Training) | Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, Peshawar, Multan & Faisalabad | PKR 51,700 | Book Now | |
| IELTS Life Skills (A1 and B1) – in centre | Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, Mirpur | PKR 40,000 | Book Now |
3. Register for the IELTS Test
Both AEO Pakistan and British Council offer online registration. Create an account on their website and provide your personal information. Have a scanned copy of your passport or National Identity Card (CNIC) ready to upload. The test fee varies slightly depending on the test partner. Payment is typically made online using your debit/credit card or through bank transfer options.
4. IELTS Registration for Candidates Under 18
If you are under 18 years old, you can still register for the IELTS test, but there are a few additional requirements. Before booking your test, you must obtain written consent from a parent or legal guardian. Most test centers will provide a consent form that needs to be completed and submitted prior to your registration. Additionally, your parent or guardian may be required to accompany you on the test day or arrange for a chaperone approved by the test center. For specific details and forms, contact your chosen IELTS test center.
5. Need IELTS Preparation help?
If you’re looking for an online IELTS tutor to help you ace the IELTS exam, visit our online tutoring platform, foriEDU.com. Our expert tutors can provide personalized guidance and support to help you achieve your desired score. And if you need even more help understanding the test, we have a blog on ‘How to Prepare for IELTS‘ that can help.
6. Test Day
Arrive at the test center at least 30 minutes before your scheduled time. Bring your original passport or CNIC used for registration and follow any additional instructions provided by the test center. Be prepared for security measures, which may include having your photo and fingerprints taken.
7. Receiving Your Results
Results are usually available within 5-7 days for computer-delivered IELTS and 13 days for paper-based tests. You can access your results online through the test center’s portal. An official copy of your Test Report Form (TRF), which you’ll need for university or immigration applications, will be mailed to you.
FAQs
- How much does the IELTS cost in Pakistan? The fee varies slightly between test partners and locations but expect it to be around PKR 40,000 – 65,000.
- How long are IELTS results valid? Most institutions accept IELTS scores that are no more than two years old.
- Can I retake the IELTS? Yes, there are no limits on retakes. However, it’s advisable to prepare thoroughly between attempts.
Remember: Start the process early, prepare rigorously, and stay calm on test day to achieve your best IELTS score!
