Where IELTS runs in Ethiopia
The British Council's dates and locations page and its booking system both point to Addis Ababa. IDP does not operate in Ethiopia. We do not list addresses; the venue is confirmed by email after booking.
| Test | Where | Dates open (Oct 2026 to Mar 2027) |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS Academic or General Training on computer | Addis Ababa | 39 dates each |
| IELTS for UKVI (Academic or General Training) | Addis Ababa | 6 to 7 dates each |
| IELTS for UKVI Life Skills A1 and B1 | Addis Ababa | 5 dates each; no A2 dates |
| IELTS Academic Online | At home | Book online |
Planning a trip to Addis Ababa
If you live outside the capital, plan for travel. The Listening, Reading and Writing parts are taken together with no break, usually in a morning or afternoon session, and you choose your Speaking slot when you book. UKVI and Life Skills dates are much rarer than standard IELTS, so book those first if a UK visa depends on them.
IELTS Online (Academic only) avoids the trip, but immigration authorities and the NMC do not accept it, so it only suits university applications that recognise it. Nurses heading to the UK should sit IELTS Academic in Addis Ababa; see IELTS for nurses in the UK.
Know your target? Check where you stand
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Booking and paying
Booking is online, and payment is by bank transfer or deposit with the slip emailed within five working days. Full fees and rules are in IELTS exam fee in Ethiopia.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I take IELTS in Ethiopia?+
In Addis Ababa, at the British Council. No other Ethiopian city had sessions on 10 October 2026.
Is there an IDP IELTS centre in Ethiopia?+
No. IDP does not run IELTS in Ethiopia.
Can I take IELTS for UKVI in Ethiopia?+
Yes, in Addis Ababa, along with IELTS for UKVI Life Skills A1 and B1.
Can I take IELTS at home in Ethiopia?+
Yes, IELTS Academic Online. It is not accepted for visas or by the NMC.
Keep reading
Related
- IELTS exam fee in Ethiopia
- PTE test centres in Ethiopia
- IELTS for UKVI vs IELTS Academic
- IELTS for students from Ethiopia
- Free IELTS mock test with AI band score
- All 970 guides
Verified against the linked official sources on 10 October 2026. Rules change: confirm on the official page before you book or apply.
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