Dhiraj Kandel
Managing DirectorSchedule a free consultation with our expert counselors to discuss your study
Planning to study, work, or settle abroad from Nepal starts with one key requirement: proving your English proficiency. IELTS is the exam most universities, employers, and immigration authorities rely on to make that decision.
For Nepalese students, IELTS is not just a language test; it determines university eligibility, visa outcomes, and scholarship opportunities. A small band difference, such as 6.0 vs 6.5, can change course options, visa risk level, and country choices.
This 2026 guide brings together everything you need to know about IELTS in Nepal, including test types, syllabus overview, scoring, fees, test centres, registration, preparation options, and how IELTS fits into your broader study abroad plan.
What is IELTS?
IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is a standardised English proficiency test used worldwide for education, work, and migration purposes. IELTS assesses 4 core skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking, and is accepted by 12,000+ institutions in over 140 countries.
For Nepalese students, it is a key requirement for university admission, student visas, and proving they can handle English in academic or professional settings in an English-speaking country.
Originally launched as ELTS in 1980, the test evolved into IELTS in 1989 when a global partnership between the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge University was formed.
What is the Full Form of IELTS?
The full form of IELTS is International English Language Testing System. As the full name suggests, it assesses English proficiency for academic, professional, and migration purposes worldwide.
Who Should Take the IELTS Exam?
Anyone planning to study, work, or migrate to an English-speaking country should take the IELTS exam.
Most international degree programs, skilled migration routes, and healthcare licensing systems demand a minimum IELTS band score. Whether you are aiming for a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PR pathway, IELTS proves you can understand and communicate in academic and real-world English contexts.
For Nepalese students, it is important when applying to universities in not only English-speaking countries, but also in Europe, where courses are taught in English. IELTS test scores are a vital part of both admission and visa requirements.
Types of IELTS Tests
The three types of IELTS tests include IELTS Academic, IELTS General Training, and IELTS UKVI. IELTS Academic is used for university and college admission, IELTS General Training is used for work, migration, and PR pathways, and IELTS UKVI is required for UK visa and immigration routes that demand secure English language testing.
IELTS Academic
IELTS Academic assesses a student’s ability to use English effectively in an academic environment. It evaluates whether you can understand complex information, express ideas clearly, and communicate appropriately in formal study settings.
Students applying for Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD, and professional degree programs at English-taught universities take IELTS Academic. Universities use this test to confirm you can handle academic study, coursework, and classroom interaction in English.
IELTS General Training
IELTS General Training assesses how well you can use English in daily life, work, and social contexts. It evaluates whether you can understand practical information, communicate clearly in everyday situations, and use English properly in non-academic and informal settings.
This test is taken by individuals applying for work visas, migration, permanent residency, or secondary education in English-speaking countries. IELTS General Training scores confirm you can communicate effectively in the workplace and daily life in an English-speaking environment.
IELTS UKVI
IELTS for United Kingdom Visas and Immigration, or simply IELTS UKVI, is used for study, work, family, and settlement visa applications in the UK specifically.
It follows the same format and difficulty as standard IELTS but is delivered at UKVI-approved centres with tighter security, which is why the UK gives it higher compliance value. Along with IELTS Academic and General Training for UK visas, IELTS Life Skills (A1 and B1) is available for family reunion, spouse, and settlement routes.
IELTS Exam Syllabus
| Skill | Question Types | Objective (What the Skill Assesses) |
| Listening | Objective response and completion-based tasks | Ability to understand spoken English, follow conversations, and identify key information |
| Reading | Comprehension and interpretation tasks | Ability to understand written texts, extract meaning, and follow arguments |
| Writing | Structured written response tasks | Ability to organise ideas, use accurate language, and communicate clearly in writing |
| Speaking | Live spoken interaction | Ability to communicate fluently, coherently, and clearly in real-time conversations |
For detailed question types and section-wise format, see the full IELTS syllabus for Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking guides.
Listening
The IELTS Listening test assesses how well you understand spoken English in social and academic situations. The section is the same for IELTS Academic, General Training, and UKVI, and follows a fixed global format.
- Consists of 4 sections
- Includes 40 questions in total
- Lasts 30 minutes
- Allows 10 extra minutes for answer transfer in the paper-based test
Reading
IELTS Reading measures your ability to understand written English used in academic and everyday contexts. The section is designed to test comprehension, information identification, and meaning across different text types.
- Lasts 60 minutes
- Total questions: 40
- Format differs between IELTS Academic and General Training
- No extra time is provided for answer transfer
Writing
The writing skill test evaluates how clearly and accurately you can express ideas in written English. It focuses on organisation, clarity, vocabulary use, and grammatical control across formal writing tasks.
- Lasts 60 minutes
- Includes 2 writing tasks, with the second carrying more weight
- Task requirements vary by IELTS Academic and General Training
Speaking
IELTS Speaking assesses your ability to communicate effectively in spoken English. It is conducted as a live interview with a certified examiner and follows the same format for all IELTS test formats.
- Lasts 11–14 minutes
- Divided into 3 parts
- Evaluates fluency, clarity, vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation
- May be held on the same day or a different day from other sections
IELTS Scoring System (Overview)
IELTS measures English proficiency using a 9-band scale, from Band 0 to Band 9, where each band level reflects a defined level of language ability. Candidates receive four individual skill scores and an overall band score calculated using official IELTS band score rules.
Quick facts about IELTS scoring:
- Each skill carries equal weight.
- The overall band score is the average of all four skills.
- Scores are reported in whole and half bands (X.O and X.5).
- Minimum per-skill requirements may apply.
- IELTS scores are valid for 2 years.
Most Nepalese test takers score between 5.5 and 7.0, with 6.0 being the most common result. 19% score 5.5, 26% score 6.0, 21% score 6.5, 14% score 7.0, 7% score 7.5, 3% score 8.0, and less than 1% score 8.5 or 9.0.
IELTS Exam Fee in Nepal (2026)
IELTS on Computer and IELTS on Paper have different fees in Nepal, even though the tests’ question types are the same.
As of January 2026, the IELTS exam fees in Nepal are:
- IELTS on Computer: NRs. 33,000
- IELTS on Paper: NRs.36,200
IELTS Test Dates & Venues in Nepal
The IELTS exam is conducted multiple times each month across Nepal, with both paper-based and computer-based options available. Test dates, seat availability, and formats vary by location, so candidates should always check official booking platforms before planning.
You can view available test dates and book IELTS exams through the following links:
- Book your IELTS test at IDP IELTS
- Book your IELTS test at The British Council
These two are the only authorised test partners in Nepal. Their IELTS test centres are available in the following cities:
- Kathmandu
- Banepa
- Biratnagar
- Birtamode
- Butwal
- Chitwan
- Ghorahi
- Hetauda
- Itahari
- Lamahi
- Nepalgunj
- Pokhara
How to Register for IELTS in Nepal?
To register for IELTS in Nepal and pay the necessary fees, follow the simple steps below:
- Go to the IELTS booking page: IDP IELTS or The British Council
- Locate your city and a test centre that is convenient for you.
- Choose your required test type (Academic, General Training, UKVI, or Life Skills), delivery format (paper or computer), date, and time by adding filters.
- Select the best option that appears after applying the filters.
- If no Speaking skill test is available on that date, choose a different one. Speaking tests are usually unavailable during weekends.
- Provide an email address and sign up by entering your name, phone number, and a password.
- Give additional necessary details like the Passport number.
- Confirm your details one last time.
- Pay the fees online using a digital wallet like eSewa.
- Confirm your booking details via email.
- Follow the instructions in your email and web portal carefully, and show up at the requested time carrying your passport.
Note: Your passport must be valid on the test day, and the details used during registration must match your passport exactly.
IELTS vs PTE
Both IELTS and PTE are widely accepted English proficiency tests for studying abroad, even though they differ in test format, scoring style, and delivery method. IELTS includes a human examiner for Speaking and uses a 9-band scoring system, while PTE is fully computer-based with an automated scoring scale.
Choosing between IELTS vs PTE depends on your strengths. If you perform better in face-to-face communication and structured writing, IELTS may suit you better. If you are comfortable with computer-based tests and need faster result delivery, PTE may be a better option.
IELTS vs TOEFL
IELTS and TOEFL are both internationally recognised English proficiency tests, but they differ in test delivery and assessment style. IELTS offers a face-to-face Speaking test and uses a band score system, while TOEFL is entirely computer-based and focuses more on academic English usage.
TOEFL is commonly preferred by US universities, while IELTS is widely accepted across Australia, Canada, the UK, and Europe, along with the USA. Choosing between IELTS vs TOEFL depends on your target country, university preference, and whether you perform better in live interaction or computer-based assessments.
Can You Study Abroad Without IELTS?
Yes, Nepalese students can study abroad without IELTS if they meet alternative English language requirements set by universities or visa routes. Many institutions assess English ability through Medium of Instruction (MOI) letters, internal assessments, interviews, pathway programs, or other recognised English tests such as PTE and TOEFL.
Whether studying abroad without IELTS is possible depends on the country, university policy, and visa category. In some routes, IELTS is optional, while in others it remains the safest and most widely accepted proof of English proficiency.
IELTS Preparation in Nepal
IELTS preparation in Nepal usually follows two main paths: self-study or IELTS classes. The right approach depends on your current English level, target band score, and time availability.
Self-Study
Self-study suits students with strong English fundamentals who just need familiarity with the IELTS format. It is cost-effective and flexible, but preparing for the writing and speaking sections is challenging without proper feedback.
Classes
Guided IELTS classes are more suitable if you are targeting Band 6.5, 7.0, or higher within a fixed deadline. They help address weak areas, especially Writing and Speaking, and align preparation with university and visa requirements, not just practice results.
Need Help With IELTS & Study Abroad Guidance?
If you’re unsure about the necessary score or need information on study visas, Goreto can help!
We help you match your IELTS score with university and visa requirements so you become clear about the minimum scores, timelines, and next steps before applying.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
You should take IELTS Academic for university study, IELTS General Training for work or migration, and IELTS UKVI if your UK visa route specifically requires it.
The total test time is 2 hours 45 minutes, excluding Speaking, which may be held on the same or a different day. The Speaking test lasts for just 11 to 14 minutes.
The fees for IELTS on Computer is NRs. 33,000 and IELTS on Paper is NRs.36,200. IELTS on Computer is not only affordable, but also offers One-skill Retake, although this format only suits those comfortable with using computers.
An IELTS score is valid for 2 years from the test date. If you are applying abroad after the test score has expired, you must retake the test.
Yes, IELTS scores affect university eligibility, visa risk level, and per-skill requirement, especially for regulated visa routes.
IELTS is accepted in more than 140 countries, which include Australia, Canada, the UK, the USA, and several European countries that offer English-taught courses.
For most students, IELTS preparation takes 4 to 12 weeks, depending on their current English level and target band. Those with a strong grasp of English can easily take the tests in a week or less.
An IELTS score of 6.5 or higher is considered good, as it meets most bachelor’s and master’s program requirements.
To get a good score in IELTS, you must focus on weak skills, official practice materials, examiner feedback, and time management. It is also necessary to avoid rushing and take the time to practice until you are confident that you will achieve your desired band score.
The overall IELTS score is calculated by adding the scores of Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking skills and dividing the total by 4. Then the score is rounded to the nearest whole or half band (X.0 or X.5).
You can check your IELTS score online through your test partner account (IDP or British Council). You also receive the test results by mail and text message on your phone.
To score 7 in IELTS, you need consistent performance across all four skills, especially Writing and Speaking, where most students lose marks. This may require up to 12 weeks of practice.
Most Australian universities require an IELTS score of 6.0 overall with no band below 5.5 for Bachelor’s programs, and 6.5 overall with no band below 6.0 for Master’s programs. Higher scores may be required for healthcare, education, or competitive courses.
In Canada, you need 6.0 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in each skill for Bachelor’s programs, and 6.5 overall with no band below 6.0 for Master’s programs. Requirements can vary by institution and course.
You need a 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 per skill) for Bachelor’s and 6.5 overall (minimum 6.0 per skill) for Master’s programs to study in Germany. Some universities or specialised courses may set higher language thresholds.
