Where Can I Register for IELTS? (British Council / IDP)

MÜGE ÇİĞDEM
Jan 22
3 min read

Registering for IELTS is easier than you might think. However, choosing the wrong test type or the wrong format can cost you both time and money. In this guide, you’ll clearly see where to register for IELTS, the practical differences between British Council and IDP, the registration steps, and the key points to watch out for.

Two official options for IELTS registration

IELTS is organized worldwide through two main official providers:

British Council (official registration channel) – (you can add a link here: British Council IELTS registration page)
IDP IELTS (official registration channel) – (you can add a link here: IDP IELTS registration page)

In Türkiye, registrations are typically done through these two institutions. The test content and scoring are the same; the differences usually appear in practical details such as seat availability, test dates, test center options, and scheduling flow.

British Council or IDP — which one should I choose?

Short answer: Choose whichever has availability in your preferred city and date.

More specific criteria:

Dates and cities: A date that’s full in one provider may be available in the other.
Test center and timing: Some centers are easier to reach or more comfortable.
Computer-based vs. paper-based: Not every center offers every format on every date.
Speaking schedule: In some centers, Speaking is on the same day; in others, it may be on a different day.

Tip: Decide your target date first, then check both providers’ calendars.

Before you register: 3 critical decisions

Before you open the registration page, clarify these:

1) Academic or General?

University applications → usually Academic
Immigration / work / daily-life purposes → often GeneralRequirements can vary by country and institution. The safest choice is the official requirement of the organization you’re applying to.

2) Paper-based or Computer-based?

If you type fast and feel comfortable reading on screen → Computer-based
If you focus better on paper → Paper-based

3) Target date and city

Seats can fill up quickly in busy periods—especially when application seasons approach. Planning early gives you an advantage.

IELTS registration step by step (British Council / IDP)

The registration flow is very similar on both platforms. The general steps are:

Go to the IELTS registration page (British Council or IDP)
Choose the test type: Academic / General (and if applicable, special options like UKVI)
Choose the format: Paper-based or Computer-based
Select your city and date (available centers and slots will appear)
Enter your ID details (often passport details are required)(ID/passport rules can vary by test type and center.)
Complete the payment(Fees can change over time; the registration page shows the current amount.)
Receive the confirmation email and test details(test location, time, and rules are sent by email)

Common mistakes (check before submitting)

Choosing the wrong test type (e.g., General instead of Academic)
Choosing a format that doesn’t fit your habits
Entering ID details incorrectly (name/number mismatch)
Overlooking date/time planning (Speaking may be on a different day)

Most critical point: The name and surname on your registration must match your ID document exactly.

After registration: a quick test-day checklist

The ID document used during registration
Test center address + transportation plan
Arrive early (centers usually require early check-in)
If Speaking is on a different day: note the exact date/time

Conclusion

The most reliable way to register for IELTS is through the official channels: British Council or IDP. Instead of asking “Which one is better?”, ask:Which provider offers the best city/date/format option for me?