How much is the IELTS exam fee in Saudi Arabia in 2026?

The British Council no longer offers IELTS for UKVI on paper in Saudi Arabia. For standard IELTS its site still describes paper-based tests in 11 cities (dates, fees and locations), but only residents can sit them: if you are not officially resident you must choose IELTS on computer, and non-Saudi paper candidates must email proof of residence at least three days before the test. Its booking system flagged every Saudi location for computer-delivered tests on 10 October 2026.

The British Council fee includes IELTS Ready Premium (40 practice tests and lessons) and five extra Test Report Forms sent free to institutions. IDP Saudi Arabia was offering its 20-hour IELTS Privilege live online course, which it values at SAR 1,100, free with any IELTS booking made until 31 December 2026.

IDP's rules for standard IELTS (IDP Saudi Arabia policy, in Arabic): a transfer is free 15 or more days before your Listening, Reading and Writing date, costs up to 25% of the fee within 5 to 14 days, and is not possible within 4 days. Cancel 15 or more days ahead and 75% is refunded; within 14 days nothing is.

IELTS for UKVI and Life Skills follow the UKVI policy: 75% back more than 14 days before, 50% within 14 days but more than two days before, 25% within two days, nothing on or after test day. The British Council's page for its standard IELTS refund policy in Saudi Arabia was not accessible when we checked, so confirm its terms in the Test Taker Portal before you cancel. IDP refunds a One Skill Retake in full if you cancel 72 hours or more before the session, with no administration fee, and nothing if you do not turn up. If a serious medical condition stops you sitting the main test, IDP says you can send a medical certificate within 5 days of the test date for a refund minus the local administrative cost. Special consideration for illness or bereavement can be requested before the test or up to two calendar days after it.

You need a valid ID: Saudi nationals can use a passport or national ID card, other residents a passport or Iqama. The British Council says digital IDs are not accepted and you must bring the original you registered with for both the Speaking and written tests. Candidates under 18 need written consent from a parent or guardian.

The British Council takes payment by card in its online booking system or by bank transfer; for a transfer, write [IELTS / family name / city / test date] in the reference and email the receipt with your registration documents. IDP bookings are made through its online booking system.

To save money, book the British Council if its dates suit you, and use One Skill Retake (SAR 1,099 at the British Council) within 60 days instead of a full resit if one skill falls short (One Skill Retake guide). Try a free full IELTS mock test before paying for the real one.