What is the eligibility and age limit for IELTS?

IDP India says IELTS has no specific age limit and is open to all age groups, but it is generally not recommended below 16 (IDP India). The British Council in Pakistan says the same: IELTS is not recommended for test takers under 16, and candidates under 18 must give written consent from a parent or guardian to apply (British Council Pakistan).

IDP India adds two rules for minors. If a valid ID of the parent or lawful guardian is not received on or before test day, the candidate cannot sit the test and 75% of the fee is refunded; and minors are accompanied by a chaperone during face-to-face Speaking tests (IDP India).

IDP India says there is no minimum educational qualification: anyone can take IELTS whatever their background (IDP India). That is eligibility for the test, not for a course or visa. Universities, employers and governments set their own score requirements, often per skill; see IELTS pass mark and our university requirements table.

IDP India asks for only an original, valid passport on test day: not expired and with all details legible. It runs a "no passport, no test" policy (IDP India). The British Council asks for a photo ID document, either a passport or a national identity card, valid at booking and on test day (British Council); in Pakistan that means a valid passport or national ID card (British Council Pakistan).

Whichever you use, bring the same document you booked with: ielts.org says you cannot sit the test with the wrong ID or none (ielts.org). Booking steps are in how to book IELTS and the test-day checklist in IELTS test day rules.

Eligibility is the same for every version; what differs is who accepts it. Always check what your university, employer or visa asks for before booking (British Council).

IELTS Academic vs General Training, IELTS for UKVI vs IELTS Academic and IELTS Life Skills explain each test. There is no limit on retakes either: see how many times you can take IELTS. Fees by country are in IELTS exam fee 2026.